The UK’s plumbing and heating sector has an annual turnover of £9.78 billion and a net turnover output (excluding sub-contracting) of £6.33 billion. Together with the electro-technical industry it represents between 2% and 3% of the gross domestic product.

The sector is affected by changes in many other domestic, commercial and industrial environments in the UK as well as changes in the construction industry. The plumbing and heating industry has experienced many technological changes, particularly relating to the introduction of energy efficient systems and environmentally friendly processes.

About 60% of the workforce are self-employed or work in small businesses. Whilst there are relatively few large employers, some are international organisations. Also, about 22% of the workforce is employed in sectors outside construction such as the prison service, local government, education or the health service.

Employment within the sector is expected to increase in most parts of the UK. Only in North Ireland is a decline of total employment expected.

Source: Summitskills website 2004, CTIB 2003, ESTELL 2002b and BPEC 2000c