Egger has traded ahead of expectations in 2026, despite what Andrew Laidler describes as an increasingly difficult market. 

Rising costs, regulation, labour pressures and a subdued housing market are all creating challenges for businesses across the sector. 

Laidler says Egger’s private ownership structure allows it to continue investing through good times and bad, with product innovation remaining a key focus. This year saw the launch of the Egger Decorative Collection 26+, giving customers new decors, designs and products to take to market.

“We’re always innovating and bringing things to the market,” says Laidler, adding that businesses which continue to develop their offer are generally better placed to come through difficult periods.

Laidler says the higher end of the market is currently showing more optimism than the mid-market, with homeowners continuing to invest in extensions, refurbishments and additions to their existing properties rather than moving.

For retailers, he is seeing opportunities among businesses that are actively investing in marketing, networking, product development and relationships with businesses like architects, designers and smaller developers.

He is also seeing retailers broaden their offer beyond kitchens and bathrooms into areas such as utility rooms, home offices, dressing rooms and wellness spaces. “The danger for many is if you go into a bit of a shell and retreat and wait for things to recover,” says Laidler.

The UK sales and marketing director is also seeing changes in the types of decors and finishes being sought. Advances in technology are producing more realistic textures and surface finishes, allowing designers to achieve higher-value looks while keeping affordability and value engineering in mind.

He says softer neutrals and beige are replacing some of the grey that has dominated interiors, while stronger colours are being used to create optimism and change moods. Heritage painted effects and more natural-looking textures are also continuing to prove popular.

Moving into 2027

Egger expects challenging conditions to continue into 2027 but says it will maintain its investment programme. This includes an additional lamination line at its Scottish facility, taking its value-added production capability up to seven lines.

The company is also preparing for major international trade fairs and continuing development work ahead of the Egger Decorative Collection 2028.

Laidler says Egger wants to be seen as “technically forward-looking”, with a culture based on enterprise, innovation and strong customer relationships.

“We all kind of make the same things, but it’s really the people that make the difference in terms of how we do it and how we deliver that for our customers.”