With research highlighting that the global bi-fold market is set to rise by almost 30% in the next four years*, Laura Richardson, Director of leading uPVC and aluminium fabricator TWR Group, looks at how the bi-fold door market has grown – and what this means for the industry moving forward.
Ten years ago, a revolution in home design began to take shape. Homeowners, yearning for a seamless connection between their indoor and outdoor spaces without sacrificing valuable square footage, discovered the perfect solution: bi-fold doors. This innovative design quickly captured the imagination of property owners and architects alike, sparking a trend that would reshape the fenestration industry.
The evolution of bi-fold doors has been nothing short of remarkable. Today’s bi-fold doors are not just about creating a visual link to the outdoors; they offer a host of advanced features that make them more appealing than ever before. From superior energy efficiency and enhanced thermal performance to cutting-edge security measures, bi-fold doors have truly come of age.
Laura Richardson, Director of TWR Group, reflects on this journey: “Over the past 12 years, we’ve witnessed a dramatic evolution in the UK bi-fold market. The surge in popularity was undoubtedly fuelled by aspirational home improvement shows like Grand Designs, which showcased the seamless indoor-outdoor living that high-end aluminium bi-fold doors can provide.
“But it’s not just homeowners who have embraced this trend. The commercial sector has also recognised the potential of bi-fold doors, appreciating their robust construction and ease of use in a variety of settings.”
A legacy of excellence
TWR Group’s journey in the bi-fold door market is a testament to the product’s enduring appeal and potential for growth. Since its inception as a PVCu fabricator in 2001, TWR Group has consistently adapted to meet the changing demands of the market. A pivotal moment came in 2012 when the company partnered with leading systems company Smarts, marking its entry into the aluminium bi-fold door market.
The impact was immediate and impressive. Within months of introducing aluminium bi-folding doors to its product range, TWR Group was manufacturing an impressive 100 doors per week. This rapid growth underscores not only the quality of the product but also the company’s ability to meet the surging demand in the market.
Today, TWR Group is a major supplier of market-leading aluminium bi-folding doors, complemented by top-notch technical support and advice. This comprehensive offering has enabled their customers to capitalize on the lucrative bi-fold market effectively.
Laura Richardson comments on the industry’s evolution: “The aluminium side of the fenestration industry has grown and changed beyond recognition in the last decade. The evolution of aluminium bi-fold doors, with their multiple designs, finishes, glazing options, security features, and hardware choices, means consumers have more choice now than ever before,” said Laura, who highlights the Visofold 1000 Slim as a prime example of this progress.
“The Visofold 1000 Slim perfectly embodies what today’s homeowners and commercial customers want – slimmer sightlines that maximise the glazed area for uninterrupted views. It’s a product that truly delivers on the promise of seamless indoor-outdoor living.”
Bright horizons
As this global research suggests, the outlook for bi-fold doors remains overwhelmingly positive. These versatile systems have continually adapted to meet changing consumer demands and industry standards. Today’s bi-fold doors are more energy-efficient than ever, aligning perfectly with the growing emphasis on sustainability across the industry.
While recent trends have seen a rise in the popularity of aluminium sliding patio doors, thanks to their ability to accommodate larger glass panels spanning wide openings, the projected growth in the global bi-fold market suggests that these doors will continue to hold their own.
Laura said: “The enduring appeal of bi-fold doors lies in their versatility. Not every property can accommodate expansive glass walls or panoramic views, which is why bi-fold doors will continue to be sought-after.
“Their remarkable run of over a decade is a testament to their functionality and aesthetic appeal. The projected 30% growth in the global market over the next four years is an exciting prospect for the whole industry. The bi-fold boom is far from over – in fact, it seems the best may be yet to come.”
TWR manufacture and supply Smart’s Visofold 1000 bi-fold and Visofold 1000 Slim. For more information, call 0191 565 2200 or email sales@twrgroup.co.uk.
* https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/bifold-doors-global-market-report
Percentage using 2024 figure of $11.3 billion and 2028 figure of $14.5 billion which equates to a 28.3% increase in four years.