Drywall and Gypsum Board market (Global, 2025)
Introduction
The Drywall and Gypsum Board market is set to play a pivotal role in the construction and building materials industry, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient building solutions. The rapid urbanization and the expansion of the world's infrastructure are escalating the need for cost-effective and versatile materials such as gypsum board and gypsum. These materials are not only popular for their lightweight properties and ease of installation, but also for their fire-resistant and sound-proofing properties, which make them suitable for a wide range of applications in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Moreover, the growing focus on sustainable building practices is boosting the innovation in the production of gypsum and gypsum board, leading to the development of low-emission and recycled products. The evolution of the Drywall and Gypsum Board market is expected to be in line with the changing consumer preferences and regulatory standards.
PESTLE Analysis
- Political
- The gypsum-plaster and gypsum-board market in 2025 will be influenced by a number of political factors, such as government regulations and building codes. In the United States, for example, the Department of Energy has issued a mandate that all new residential construction must meet certain energy efficiency standards, which could impact the type of materials used in their construction. In addition, by 2024, nearly 30% of states are expected to have adopted stricter building codes that require the use of sustainable materials, which could drive demand for eco-friendly gypsum-board products.
- Economic
- In 2025 the economic background for the plasterboard and gypsum-board market is determined by the fluctuations in building expenditure. In 2024 the construction industry spent $ 16 billion, of which $ 900 billion was for residential construction. In 2025 the demand for plasterboard products is expected to be high, especially in the housing sector. The number of new housing starts is forecast to increase by 5%, which means an additional 100,000 new homes requiring plasterboard and gypsum-board.
- Social
- Social trends are increasingly turning towards the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly building materials. In 2024, research showed that in home renovation projects, three-fifths of the owners put a priority on the use of eco-friendly materials. The market for gypsum and plasterboard is likely to be driven towards more sustainable solutions, such as recycled gypsum, which is gaining a foothold amongst consumers and contractors concerned about the environment.
- Technological
- The market for gypsum board and plasterboard is influenced by technological progress. In 2025, innovations such as automation and the use of advanced materials are expected to increase the efficiency of production. For example, the introduction of smart plasterboard, which monitors humidity and temperature, will lead to a 20 percent increase in the number of adopters among builders, which will contribute to the growing trend towards the technological content of building materials.
- Legal
- The legal environment, including safety and environmental regulations, is a crucial factor for the plasterboard and gypsum board market. In 2024, the EPA introduced a new rule, which requires manufacturers to reduce VOC emissions by 15% by 2025. This means that companies must invest in cleaner production processes, which can have an impact on both production costs and prices.
- Environmental
- The market for gypsum plasterboard and dry wall is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of the environment. In 2024, it is estimated that the total gypsum production will be 150 million metric tons, of which a significant part will be obtained from sustainable practices. The construction industry is also under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030. There is a growing demand for low- and zero-emission dry wall products, which by 2025 will make up 25% of the market.
Porter's Five Forces
- Threat of New Entrants
- The Drywall and Gypsum-Board market has moderate barriers to entry, including the cost of building a manufacturing plant and complying with regulations. While there is room for new entrants, particularly in niche segments and with new products, the market is dominated by established companies. Brand loyalty and the distribution networks of existing companies will be challenges for new entrants.
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- The bargaining power of suppliers in the gypsum and gypsum board industry is relatively low, since there are many sources of supply and materials. Gypsum, the main raw material, is plentiful, and there are many suppliers. The industry can easily change suppliers, which reduces the bargaining power of suppliers.
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- The buyers of plasterboards and gypsum products have considerable bargaining power, primarily because of the availability of substitute products and the presence of many suppliers. As a rule, the large construction companies and contractors are able to negotiate lower prices and better terms because they buy in large quantities. In addition, the growing focus on cost effectiveness in building projects increases the power of buyers.
- Threat of Substitutes
- The threat of substitutes in the plasterboard and gypsum-board market is moderate. Although plasterboard is a widely used product, alternatives such as cement board, wood paneling, and other wall systems are available. These substitutes, however, do not offer the same advantages in cost, ease of installation, and performance, which limits their threat.
- Competitive Rivalry
- Competition in the Drywall and Gypsum Boards market is high, driven by the presence of many established companies and the constant innovation of new products. Price, quality, and customer service are the key factors in companies’ competition, which leads to the development of aggressive marketing strategies. New entrants are also attracted by the market’s growth prospects, further increasing competition.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
- High demand in residential and commercial construction sectors.
- Lightweight and easy to install, reducing labor costs.
- Fire-resistant properties enhancing safety standards.
Weaknesses
- Susceptibility to moisture and mold, limiting usage in certain environments.
- High competition leading to price wars and reduced profit margins.
- Dependence on raw material prices, which can be volatile.
Opportunities
- Growing trend towards sustainable building materials and practices.
- Expansion in emerging markets with increasing urbanization.
- Technological advancements in production processes improving efficiency.
Threats
- Economic downturns affecting construction spending.
- Regulatory changes impacting material standards and usage.
- Emergence of alternative materials posing competitive threats.
Summary
The gypsum plasterboard market in 2025 will be characterized by strong demand for gypsum plasterboard products driven by building activity, but will also face challenges from competition and raw material supply. Opportunities will come from the sustainable building trend and the expansion of the market, while threats from the economic situation and regulations will have an impact on the development of the market. The strategic emphasis on innovation and adaptation to the market will be crucial for success.