The flat glass market - Portugal

As of 2020, the global flat glass market demonstrates robust growth, projected to experience a substantial 53.55% total increase from 2015 to 2022, reflecting an average annual growth rate of 6.32%. The increased demand is paralleled by the expansion of production capacities, with the number of float glass lines and plants rising by 11.25% and 6.19%, respectively, from 2015 to 2018. The construction sector, particularly in Portugal, is expected to grow significantly, outpacing the European average with predicted annual increases of 7.1% between 2018 and 2020, which bodes well for flat glass demand. Additionally, the automotive industry shows a positive trend, with Portugal registering a 2.6% rise in vehicle sales in 2018 compared to the previous year. However, the Portuguese glass industry faces downsizing challenges with a decline of 21% in company numbers from 2008 to 2015. Environmental concerns remain a pressing issue, with the industry striving to improve energy efficiency and embrace a circular economy model, as glass is 100% recyclable. Despite these efforts and growth in key consuming sectors, revenue from flat glass manufacturing forecasts suggest a moderate increase, expected to reach €5.94 million in 2022, highlighting a gradual recovery from a more modest figure of €4.94 million in 2016.

Dynamic Trends Shaping the Portuguese Glass Industry

The Portuguese glass industry, with roots stemming from the late 18th century in Marinha Grande, has evolved to become a modern market contingent on both tradition and industrial advancement. Initially slow to industrialize, the industry has been marked by a transition to more extensive production, facilitated by the abundance of raw materials like wood from Pinhal forest of Leira. Today, the industry encompasses 237 companies, led prominently by the French capital group Saint-Gobain, which alone accounts for 16% of the subsector's operating revenues. In 2015, the glass manufacturing and glass products subsector in Portugal achieved operating revenues approaching 927 million euros, with a noteworthy growth trend aside from a decline noted in 2012. Net income showed a significant rise to 122 million euros, concurrent with an 8% increase in employment to more than 5300 positions. Remarkably, the average EBITDA reached 24% of operating income, indicating substantial profitability and growth potential within the sector. Globally, the flat glass market has shown exponential growth, with volumes soaring from about 61.3 million metric tons in 2012 to an estimated 73.2 million in 2015. This quick expansion is anticipated to continue, forecasting a staggering 53.55% growth from 2015 to 2022. Interestingly, China emerges as the champion of flat glass demand, accounting for half of the global market, followed by Europe and North America. In stark contrast, the Portuguese glass industry has experienced contraction. The number of companies decreased by 21% from 520 in 2008 to 409 in 2015. Turnover in the flat glass forming and processing industry registered at approximately 240 million euros in 2015, with prediction models suggesting a mild and steady increase toward 281 million euros by 2023. The automotive sector presents a promising outlet for flat glass demand, asserting an influential role in market dynamics. The Portuguese automotive market has seen an uptick in vehicle sales with over 273,000 new vehicles in 2018, a 2.6% increase from the previous year. Concurrently, the construction sector in Portugal exhibits robust growth forecasts, outpacing much of Southern Europe and boding well for the flat glass market reliant on such industries. From a production viewpoint, the float process stands as the industry standard for manufacturing flat glass, defined by its energy efficiency and high-quality product offering.

Prominent Players Shaping the Portuguese Flat Glass Industry Landscape

The Portuguese flat glass industry, though experiencing a contraction in recent years, is supported by a network of seasoned and specialized companies. These organizations each play a crucial role in maintaining the vitality and innovation within the market, offering a range of glass products and services. Let's delve into the core competencies and contributions of several leading actors in this niche market.

• Induvidro - Saint-Gobain's Vidros: A part of the global Saint-Gobain group, Induvidro stands out for its deep-rooted expertise in flat glass manufacturing, offering high-quality products for construction and automotive applications. This firm is hailed for its innovative edge and commitment to sustainable production practices.
• Vidrotorre: A company recognized for its specialty in transforming flat glass into finished products. Vidrotorre combines skilled craftsmanship with technology to cater to various sectors, including construction and interior design.
• Vasiglass: This company has carved a niche in the production of high-precision, tempered, and safety glass products. Their offerings are crucial for applications demanding both durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Vidraria Armando: With a focus on custom glass solutions, Vidraria Armando provides a variety of glass products, standing as a solution-provider for diverse glazing needs in the region.
• Vidromarks: Renowned for its processed glass products, Vidromarks serves both residential and commercial sectors with its range of laminated, tempered, and insulating glass products.
• Vitrochaves: Positioned as a key player in the market, Vitrochaves offers an assortment of glass products that suit a wide array of applications, from architectural to decorative purposes.
• Virclar: A name synonymous with versatility in glass processing, Virclar's product portfolio spans from glazing to specialty glass catered to various industry needs.
• Ourividro: Recognized for its comprehensive offerings, Ourividro efficiently bridges the gap between raw flat glass manufacturing and consumer-ready products, ensuring quality and consistency.
• Vitroglass: As a producer of innovative glass solutions, Vitroglass is well-versed in meeting the intricate demands of modern architecture and design trends with its specialized glass products.
• Biselvidro: With an attention to detail, Biselvidro excels in the art of creating finished glass products that are not only highly functional but also aesthetically refined.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 06/10/2021

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