Andy Swift, national sales manager of ISO-CHEMIE, is optimistic about UK foam sealant sales in the next 12 months as specialist suppliers ramp-up plans to target the design sector.
In the face of continuing cost pressures, possible further interest rate hikes and ongoing Brexit negotiations, the one certainty for the economy and, the construction sector in 2018 will be uncertainty.
However, companies such as ISO CHEMIE, which supply foam sealant tapes window and door installation projects, are likely to benefit if there’s a downturn in construction as they target the design rather than the installer sector.
Andy Swift says: “The opportunities are out there for visionary companies like ourselves. There’ll be an increased focus on selling to designers in 2018, boosting sales in the process on the back of increasing product specification.
“Brexit’s going to happen and whatever the outcome, construction will carry on, even it’s to meet the demand for new homes. So, as we look ahead, the market appears future proof-for us and who knows, it may even be better than expected.”
He also expects building regulations to get tougher and policed better around matters such as airtightness and thermal loss around windows. There will also be an increase in fire protection within new projects. Again, this could lead to increased opportunity for further tape-based sealing solutions.
“To survive 2018, you will need a well-run business,” adds Andy Swift, “with state-of-the art product ranges and quick delivery backed up by good on and off-site technical support.”
Growing appreciation of sealant products is also leading to the increased use of foam-based technology to close more sales and develop new business opportunities.ISO-CHEMIE is one of Europe’s main producers of impregnated foam sealants, specialising in the manufacturer of foam products from polyethylene (EPE), polypropylene (EPP) and polyurethane (PUR) using the latest production techniques.
