The conflict in the Middle East is contributing to supply chain disruption, rising manufacturing costs and reduced consumer confidence, according to Sternfenster.
GfK’s Consumer Confidence Index fell four points to -25 in April, while expectations for the wider economy over the next 12 months dropped to -43, the lowest level since February 2023. GfK said consumers “really do have the jitters now”, citing concerns around fuel costs and further energy price rises.
Mike Parczuk, Managing Director at Sternfenster, said: “Consumers have been hit by an economic shock from the prices that we’re paying at the pumps to fill up our cars, to what we pay for a cup of coffee.”
Parczuk said installers are likely to experience longer decision-making cycles, increased price sensitivity and fluctuating enquiry levels as homeowners become more cautious with discretionary spending.
However, he argued that economic uncertainty also creates opportunities, particularly around energy efficiency messaging.
According to the editorial, Cornwall Insight forecasts Ofgem’s energy price cap will rise from £1,641 to £1,843.01 between July and September 2026 for a typical dual-fuel household paying by Direct Debit.
Parczuk pointed to increased demand for solar panels and heat pumps as evidence that consumers remain motivated by long-term energy savings.
He argued the window and door sector has been less effective at communicating payback and financing options linked to energy efficiency improvements.
To support installers, Sternfenster has invested in digital sales infrastructure including EasyAdmin+, alongside digital showroom and augmented reality tools designed to help homeowners visualise products and speed up decision-making.
Parczuk also advised installers to review pricing strategies in response to ongoing volatility, including shortening quote validity periods and building flexibility into contracts.
He said: “There’s no point winning a job today if it ends up costing you money tomorrow.”
