The global consumption of biocides in recreational water was $571 million at active manufacture level in 2005, a 40% growth since 1995, Research and Markets reported. This performance reflects not only end industry growth, but regulatory and technological changes. The market for biocides in recreational water will continue to grow due to the increased numbers of pools and spas and also the switch from chlorine to more expensive environmentally friendly sanitizers.
Specialty biocides include algaecides and bactericides. North America accounted for approximately 40% of this total, but several factors are combining to bring the total market value up and the North American percentage down.
According to Research and Markets’ Biocides in Recreational Water Global Report – 2006, “Growth in the North American biocides market has slowed down, but competition for market share among the leaders has only accelerated. Consolidation in the industry has really raised the stakes for companies like Arch, Basf, Buckman, Chemtura, Clariant, Dow, ISP, Lonza, Oxychem and Stepan, and they're looking to countries in developing regions.”
Areas such as China, Eastern Europe, India and South America continue to offer growth opportunities as per capita income rises and human health issues are accorded more importance. Basic biocide producers will rely more on specialty niches such as the hygiene sector for growth. With increased attention to specialty market sectors and growing regional markets, biocide companies are expected to introduce new formulations to address shifts in demand. These companies must also examine the specific needs of each regional market to adjust their strategies for growth accordingly, according to Research and Markets.
Source: Research and Markets
