What are the next innovations expected in the door & window hardware?
Automation and smart windows are the future. Like any other industry, it would take time to incorporate technology into the hardware and make foolproof solutions, but a lot of initiatives have been taken all over the world towards this.
The biggest challenge in this would be after sale service as it is a new subject and that will have to be dealt with care. The price of these products would slowly normalise with scale and more trained human resources to tackle the after-sale service. One family hardware – same design across different windows & doors is going to be the new norm and way of selecting hardware. This adds to the aesthetics and uniformity of design.
How important is the correct hardware in façade & fenestration?
Windows & doors are made of a lot of components and none can be compromised. Hardware is one of the key elements which a layman observes for the first time and attracts someone. Hence, aesthetics become very important. Further, strong functional hardware can make a massive difference in the overall experience of the final consumer. The ease of operation is critical.
On the other hand, a wrong choice can be dangerous and can result in a life-threatening situation as well.
Please tell us about the future potential for the architectural hardware products and industry considering technology, materials and market growth?
With more focus on infrastructure, the fenestration industry is bound to grow. The next big growth vehicles would be tier 2 & tier 3 cities. Rising base metal costs would make it necessary to innovate on the hardware composition to counter that, and this is where technology upgradation in manufacturing and client servicing will play a big role. A strong understanding of hardware fitment and application are key elements for innovation in design and product generation.
Do you see consolidation happening in the Indian fenestration industry?
The Indian fenestration industry is poised to continue on the growth trajectory. This is bound to attract attention from a lot of potential international brands already present in this industry. It is also further expected to gain the attention of domestic co-related companies who are catering to the same customer base. Hence consolidation and mergers and acquisitions are bound to happen. We have already witnessed some activity in this regard but I think with time more will happen across various components within the industry. A lot of organisations will find this means in accelerating their growth. It is exciting time going ahead for the industry.
