In 2025, small to medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in the UK fenestration sector are facing headwinds from multiple directions. From global economic slowdowns, high inflation, and volatile energy prices to the indirect impacts of Donald Trump’s renewed US tariffs on imports and ongoing supply chain disruptions, it’s clear: resilience, adaptability, and strategic foresight are more critical than ever.

This guide outlines practical steps and strategies for UK-based installation firms to protect profitability, maintain operations, and even find growth opportunities in uncertain times.

1. Understand the Global Landscape

Impact of US Tariffs on the UK

While Donald Trump’s tariffs are primarily aimed at Chinese and European imports into the US, they can affect UK businesses indirectly:

  • Supply Chain Ripple Effects: Global demand shifts may increase prices for aluminium, steel, and glass — all critical to fenestration.

  • Currency Fluctuations: Economic instability, coupled with UK-specific political dynamics, can impact exchange rates, affecting import costs.

  • Export Opportunities: If US tariffs block European competitors from the American market, UK exporters may find new openings (but with caution).

Action Point: Stay informed via trusted trade and economic analysis platforms. Regularly review supplier pricing and delivery terms in response to global shifts.

2. Strengthen Your Supply Chain Resilience

  • Diversify Suppliers: Don’t rely on a single supplier or source. Consider sourcing from different regions or more local UK/EU manufacturers.

  • Negotiate Smart Contracts: Where possible, agree to fixed-price contracts to avoid cost volatility.

  • Stock Strategically: For key products or materials, increase buffer stock if storage costs allow — especially if prices are expected to rise.

Action Point: Review your top 5 most critical materials or components and assess your vulnerability if their prices increase or supply drops.

3. Sharpen Financial Health

  • Tighten Cash Flow Management: Monitor receivables and payables closely. Avoid tying up cash in slow-moving stock.

  • Cost Efficiency Audits: Review overheads — insurance, fuel, logistics — and negotiate better terms or switch providers where necessary.

  • Smart Financing: Consider low-interest government-backed loans (e.g., Recovery Loan Scheme) to support strategic investments, not just plug holes.

Action Point: Work with a specialist accountant who understands construction or trade businesses — they can unlock tax reliefs and efficiencies.

4. Focus on High-Margin Products & Services

  • Upsell Energy Efficiency: With rising energy prices, homeowners are prioritising insulation. Triple glazing, composite doors, and thermally efficient frames are in demand.

  • Maintenance & Retrofit Market: With new builds slowing, pivot toward upgrading or retrofitting existing homes and buildings.

  • Offer Finance Options: Make high-ticket items more accessible with flexible payment plans via third-party finance providers.

Action Point: Review your top-selling products by margin, not just volume. Shift marketing focus to the most profitable ones.

5. Invest in People and Digital Tools

  • Retain Skilled Labour: Training and retaining your team is cheaper than replacing them. Consider apprenticeships or upskilling schemes.

  • Digital Job Management Tools: Streamline operations, scheduling, and quoting to improve efficiency and customer experience.

  • Remote Quoting & Virtual Surveys: Use tech to reduce site visits and save fuel/time while still giving accurate estimates.

Action Point: Explore software like Jobber, Tradify, or Fergus to see how digital tools can simplify your business operations.

6. Lean Into Local & Sustainable Messaging

Consumers are increasingly wary of imported goods with long carbon footprints. Emphasise:

  • Locally Sourced Materials

  • Low-Carbon Installation Methods

  • Sustainable Disposal of Old Frames or Glass

Sustainability sells — and can win you public sector or commercial contracts.

Action Point: Update your website and marketing materials to reflect eco-conscious practices. Add certifications where possible (Certass, BFRC, etc.).

7. Collaborate & Advocate

  • Join Trade Bodies: Organisations like Certass, Corgi, and CAB offer insights, support, and collective lobbying power.

  • Local Business Networks: Work with builders, architects, or energy assessors for referrals and joint tenders.

Action Point: Attend one industry networking event or webinar per quarter to stay ahead of trends and form useful partnerships.

Conclusion: Adapt to Survive — and Thrive

While the economic horizon remains murky, UK fenestration businesses that stay agile, informed, and customer-focused will not only survive — but stand to gain market share as weaker players fall away.

Invest where it matters, cut where it doesn’t, and always be prepared to pivot.

Checklist Summary

✅ Monitor global pricing and supply trends
✅ Diversify suppliers and stock up where strategic
✅ Review cash flow weekly
✅ Focus marketing on high-margin, high-efficiency products
✅ Invest in digital tools for quoting, scheduling, and CRM
✅ Highlight sustainability in every customer touchpoint
✅ Leverage trade bodies and local alliances

Subscribe for FREE below to receive the weekly DGBulletin newsletter and monthly digital magazine!

View DGB Privacy Policy