Pipes, Valves and Fittings Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030 (Revenue Forecast, Supplier Ranking & Matrix, Emerging Technologies, Pricing Models, Cost Structure, Engagement & Operating Model, Competitive Landscape)

Pipes, Valves and Fittings Category Overview

The pipes, valves, and fittings category is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.1% from 2023 to 2030. The rising infrastructure projects in developing economies due to rapid industrialization and urbanization are fueling the demand for piping and fittings. Piping systems are essential in commercial, industrial, and residential settings to ensure efficient flow of fluids. Fittings are utilized to connect, change, and control the direction of the flow in the piping system. Rising demand for piping and fittings for such uses is anticipated to boost the category over the forecast period.

Companies are focusing on reducing carbon footprints through environmentally friendly and sustainable piping systems. Companies are using eco-friendly plumbing materials such as PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) due to their resistance to corrosion and durability, along with long-lasting plumbing systems. Companies such as JM Eagle, Inc involved in the manufacturing of environmental friendly plastic pipes. Additionally, low-flow fixtures are considered an important part of sustainable plumbing as they reduce water consumption without impacting performance.

Technological advancements in plumbing and fitting systems enabling real-time monitoring and controlling of PVF systems are revolutionizing the way companies are managing the systems. The PVF systems has been influenced by the Internet of Things (IoT), incorporating interconnected devices designed for fluid monitoring. These devices offer real-time information on water consumption, enabling homeowners to identify leaks and promote water conservation. In modern plumbing, sophisticated leak detection technologies are increasingly essential. Intelligent sensors have the capability to detect leaks and autonomously shut off the water supply, effectively preventing expensive water damage.

According to the plumbing & mechanical engineer 2023 report, over the last two years, the PVF sector has encountered numerous challenges that, when intertwined, gave rise to what some describe as a perfect storm. Plumbing professionals have expressed apprehensions about issues such as supply chain shortages, trade disruptions, escalating material prices, rising freight costs, fleet shortages, and other related concerns.

The category is fragmented due to the presence of various players competing by specializing in providing high-performance fluid control components to ensure the efficiency and durability of clients’ pipelines. Suppliers of raw materials, such as steel or specialized alloys, which may have moderate power due to the specialized nature of these inputs. However, if there are multiple suppliers and no significant differentiation in inputs, the power may be lower. 

Raw material (stainless steel, brass, copper, PVC), labor, machinery, energy, transportation, and others are some of the cost components involved in manufacturing pipes and valves. Other costs include facility rent, maintenance, packaging, and legal charges. Raw materials, labor, and machinery account for a major part of the overall cost of manufacturing pipes and valves. The prices of pipes and valves are heavily dependent on the prices of raw materials. Valves are the costliest elements in the piping system of an industrial plant, and they can cost around 30 to 35% of the overall piping cost.

In terms of sourcing pipes, valves, and fittings category, the hybrid model is a popular engagement model in the category, combining in-house and full-service outsourcing. Companies outsource raw material procurement from steel, copper, brass, and other alloy manufacturers. Companies design, manufacture, and distribute pipes, valves, and fittings internally through a team of experts. Companies such as SealFast, Jaquar, and SSP manufacture internally and distribute various ranges of valves, such as ball, relief, check, needle, and plug valves, serving residential and commercial, oil and gas, manufacturing, and wastewater treatment sectors. While procuring the pipes, valves and fittings, buyers evaluate suppliers based on the quality of the product, different shapes and sizes offered, delivery time taken, technical support given, and after-sales services. Buyers also seek for discounts on bulk purchases, suppliers' reputation, price competitiveness, and customization offered.

Pipes, Valves and Fittings Procurement Intelligence Report Scope