Gemma Rickard, head of retail marketing for Impey Showers looks at the state of the wetroom market...

We estimate that shower enclosures currently represent  67% of the total market, screens represent 17% and shower trays 16%; although these figures are expected to change considerably over the coming years as consumers become increasingly design conscious. Wet rooms have grown in popularity over the last two years with traditional shower trays losing market share with buyers preferring to opt for a more spacious and sleeker showering experience.  

Wet rooms are proving to be an extremely popular choice for both the UK domestic and commercial markets. As more innovative products have been developed and the myths of leaking or cold wetrooms are abolished, many are reaping the practical benefits of wet rooms. Offering attractive options such as under floor heating, enclosed or open screen choices, as well as being easy to clean and access, it's not surprising that the wet room industry has seen so much growth.

Contemporary  style bathrooms are currently a hot commodity as consumers seek practical and modern designs that boast a minimal aesthetic and innovative technology.  Although ranges of enclosures and wet rooms offered by manufacturers tend to be segmented in terms of classic or contemporary, there is a strong movement to simplify the styling and reduce the metal profiling across the board. This minimal look is likely to continue into the foreseeable future.

With the introduction of Lifetime Homes Standards, 'inclusive' shower products that are suitable for the elderly and disabled will be in greater demand. Large walk-in enclosures, easy access low-level trays and wet rooms look likely to be increasingly specified in new build homes.

A recent consumer survey carried out by Impey Showers suggests that bathing is becoming less popular, with over 80% of people today preferring to shower; this is mostly due to time constraints and developing consumer eco-consciousness.

With this in mind Impey believe that the shower industry has a great deal of potential for the future. It is estimated that in 2014 the UK enclosures, screens and trays market will be worth some £220 million, an increase of 16% when compared to the estimated market size in 2009.