PUBLISHER: The Business Research Company | PRODUCT CODE: 1672355
PUBLISHER: The Business Research Company | PRODUCT CODE: 1672355
Flat glass, also known as sheet glass, is a type of glass produced in a planar form by combining sand and other components in a liquid. It finds applications in both architectural and automotive settings.
The primary types of flat glass include basic float glass, toughened glass, coated glass, laminated glass, extra-clear glass, and other products. Basic float glass is a sheet of glass created by floating molten glass on a bed of molten metal, typically tin, although other low-melting-point alloys have been utilized in the past. Various processes, such as float and rolled sheet, are employed in different end-user industries, including construction and infrastructure, automotive and transportation, solar energy, among others.
The flat glass market research report is one of a series of new reports from The Business Research Company that provides flat glass market statistics, including flat glass industry global market size, regional shares, competitors with a flat glass market share, detailed flat glass market segments, market trends and opportunities, and any further data you may need to thrive in the flat glass industry. This flat glass market research report delivers a complete perspective of everything you need, with an in-depth analysis of the current and future scenario of the industry.
The flat glass market size has grown strongly in recent years. It will grow from $40.37 billion in 2024 to $42.87 billion in 2025 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2%. The growth in the historic period can be attributed to strong economic growth in emerging markets, increasing industrialization and manufacturing and growth in solar energy installations.
The flat glass market size is expected to see strong growth in the next few years. It will grow to $52.83 billion in 2029 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4%. The growth in the forecast period can be attributed to the global population growth and urbanization, growth in the construction industry, growing demand for electronic displays and increasing investments. Major trends in the forecast period include focus on partnerships and collaborations, focus on artificial intelligence in flat glass manufacturing, focus on product innovations, focus on use of advanced digital camera systems in glass production and increasing focus on solar glass.
The increasing number of solar energy installations is anticipated to significantly drive growth in the flat glass market. Flat glass is a crucial component in solar energy systems, particularly in photovoltaic panels, where it plays a vital role in converting solar energy into electricity. For example, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the U.S. installed 6.1 GW of solar capacity in the first quarter of 2023 alone, marking a remarkable 47% increase compared to the same period in 2022. Furthermore, projections indicate that by 2028, 28% of all new distributed solar capacity will incorporate energy storage solutions, up from under 12% in 2023. This growth in solar installations not only highlights the rising demand for renewable energy sources but also underscores the critical role of flat glass in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of solar technology. As the push for clean energy continues, the flat glass market is well-positioned to benefit from this trend.
The expansion of building construction and infrastructure development is indeed expected to significantly boost the demand for flat glass. This material is essential in the construction sector, being utilized in a variety of applications such as windows, facades, doors, interior decorations, shopfronts, and railings, among others. Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau highlights this trend: construction spending was estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $2,162.7 billion in July 2024, reflecting a 6.7% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, public construction expenditures rose to $270.8 billion in July 2024, up from $243.9 billion in 2023. As urbanization and infrastructure projects continue to expand, the demand for flat glass is poised for growth, driven by the need for aesthetic, functional, and energy-efficient building materials in both residential and commercial applications. This upward trend in construction activity will likely fuel the flat glass market in the coming years.
Major companies in the flat glass market are indeed emphasizing product innovations to strengthen their market position, particularly focusing on sustainability. Float glass, known for its smooth and uniform surface, is a key area of development. For instance, in September 2022, AGC Glass Europe introduced a new range of float glass that boasts a 40% reduction in carbon footprint. This innovative glass produces less than 7 kg of CO2 per square meter for clear glass with a thickness of 4 mm, showcasing a significant advancement in sustainable manufacturing practices. AGC's initiative not only minimizes carbon emissions during production but also aligns with its overall strategy to enhance sustainability across its operations. Such innovations reflect the industry's commitment to reducing environmental impact while meeting the growing demand for high-quality, energy-efficient building materials. As sustainability becomes increasingly crucial, these advancements are likely to attract environmentally conscious consumers and bolster market competitiveness.
In November 2023, RIOU Glass SAS, a France-based manufacturer specializing in custom glass and glazing products, acquired Vidresif S.L, a Spain-based glass manufacturer and designer catering to the construction and architecture sectors. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but this acquisition is strategically aimed at enhancing RIOU Glass's market share in Spain while strengthening its product offerings for clients in both Spain and neighboring France. This move reflects RIOU Glass's commitment to expanding its footprint in the European market and responding to the growing demand for innovative glass solutions in construction and architecture.
Major companies operating in the flat glass market include Sisecam Group, AGC Inc., Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co. Ltd., Vitro S.A.B. de C.V., Compagnie de Saint-Gobain S.A., Cardinal Glass Industries Inc., Nippon Sheet Glass Co. Ltd, CSG Holding Co. Ltd., China Glass Holding Ltd., Central Glass Co. Ltd., Cevital Group, Euroglas, Guardian Industries, AziAYecam Group, Sangalli Vetro Manfredonia SpA, Etex, Pietta glass, Simeko, Salavatsteklo, GC America, Guardian Glass LLC, Xinyi Auto Glass, Dillmeier Glass Company, Trulite Glass & Aluminum Solutions, NSG Group, Arabian Processing Glass, Laval, Al-Saeed Glass & Panel, Emirates Glass, Arabian United Float Glass Company, PPG Industries Inc, Phoenicia Flat Glass Industries Ltd, Koch Industries Inc, Kaveh Glass Group, Ghazvin Glass Co.
Asia-Pacific was the largest region in the flat glass market in 2024. Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the forecast period. The regions covered in the flat glass market report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East, Africa.
The countries covered in the flat glass market report are Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, South Korea, UK, USA, Italy, Spain, Canada.
The flat glass market consists of sales of clear glass, textured glass and cast glass. Values in this market are 'factory gate' values, that is the value of goods sold by the manufacturers or creators of the goods, whether to other entities (including downstream manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers) or directly to end customers. The value of goods in this market includes related services sold by the creators of the goods.
The market value is defined as the revenues that enterprises gain from the sale of goods and/or services within the specified market and geography through sales, grants, or donations in terms of the currency (in USD unless otherwise specified).
The revenues for a specified geography are consumption values that are revenues generated by organizations in the specified geography within the market, irrespective of where they are produced. It does not include revenues from resales along the supply chain, either further along the supply chain or as part of other products.
Flat Glass Global Market Report 2025 from The Business Research Company provides strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the market.
This report focuses on flat glass market which is experiencing strong growth. The report gives a guide to the trends which will be shaping the market over the next ten years and beyond.
Where is the largest and fastest growing market for flat glass ? How does the market relate to the overall economy, demography and other similar markets? What forces will shape the market going forward? The flat glass market global report from the Business Research Company answers all these questions and many more.
The report covers market characteristics, size and growth, segmentation, regional and country breakdowns, competitive landscape, market shares, trends and strategies for this market. It traces the market's historic and forecast market growth by geography.
The forecasts are made after considering the major factors currently impacting the market. These include the Russia-Ukraine war, rising inflation, higher interest rates, and the legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic.