Jun 28 2007
Flat glass market bears a positive outlook as the industry derives growth from new smart-glass products such as electrochromic, switchable glass, self-cleaning window glass and heads-up display windscreens. "Development of new smart glass products such as self-cleaning glass and light-control products is forecast to boost demand for flat glass" according to research published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc. Technologies such as electrochromic windows and liquid-crystal glass are also gaining market acceptance. Architectural market for advanced flat glass will benefit from features like low-emissivity, reflective and smart glass.
Greater use of varieties of glass by architects and car designers for civil construction and automotive applications is providing impetus to growth. About 70% of flat glass is used in construction industry. On the regional front, Europe, Asia and North America account for over 90% of global flat glass consumption.
Over the years, the glass industry witnessed a gradual shift away from single glazing to double/insulated glazing. Added to this, implementation of new legislation for energy efficiency glass has made double-glazing mandatory in most of parts of the world. These stringent regulations have led to greater energy-efficient coated glass.
The float glass industry is highly concentrated with about four players accounting for a sizable share of the market. Asahi Glass, NSG/Pilkington, Saint Gobain, Guardian are the major players. Other market participants include PPG, Central Glass, Hankuk, Visteon, Cardinal Glass Industries.
The report titled Flat Glass: A Global Strategic Business Report, provides an extensive review of market trends, drivers, players and competition among others. The report also offers profiles of leading players and presents recent developments, mergers, acquisitions, as well as other strategic industry activities. The study analyzes flat glass market by major product segments including float glass, sheet glass and rolled glass, and end use segments construction, automotive and specialty. Detailed analysis is provided for major geographic markets including United States, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East.