India’s growing population, coupled with urban migration, drives the demand for residential housing, including apartments, gated communities, and affordable housing projects. The Construction Industry in India consists of the Real estate as well as the Urban development segment. The real estate segment covers residential, office, retail, hotels and leisure parks, among others. While Urban development segment broadly consists of sub-segments such as Water supply, Sanitation, Urban transport, Schools, and Healthcare.
Urbanization trends result in increased demand for housing in urban areas, leading to the development of high-rise residential complexes, mixed-use developments, and urban renewal projects. The commercial real estate industry is currently experiencing favourable conditions due to many factors such as increased urbanization, consistent economic expansion, initiatives from the government, foreign investments, technological breakthroughs, and evolving customer preferences. These components are available for usage by companies and investors looking to capitalize on the vast potential of India’s commercial real estate market, which includes office buildings, airports, healthcare facilities, etc.
The real estate industry is poised for change in this dynamic age of technological developments and shifting customer expectations, driven by a need for more than just extravagance. It appears that “smart homes” are the new companion for luxury, and as sustainability gains prominence in domestic design, a green revolution is underway.
Modern homeowners now have different expectations as a result of the introduction of advanced technologies. The fundamental principles of residential architecture are changing due to a major shift towards sustainable living. The focus is on lessening the environmental impact of homes, from the materials used in building to the integration of eco-friendly technologies. More than ever, environmentally concerned homebuyers are driving demand for sustainable
houses that emphasise resource responsibility, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.
Prominent developers promptly identify and adjust to these dynamic patterns, welcoming the shift and launching a novel phase in the real estate development industry. Beyond simple marketing, the dedication to sustainability is a sincere recognition of the importance of responsible urban development. The industry is not without difficulties, though, as the pursuit of sustainability coincides with outside forces impacting real estate values. The last ten years have seen an upward trajectory in residential property prices due to the combination of rising interest rates and supply-demand dynamics
Building Material Market
The market’s need for building supplies increased by over 8% in 2023 and is expected to do so in the years to come. The construction material market in India was estimated to be worth $240 billion in 2023. Prior to 2022, the building material industry saw growth at a rate of ten percent.
The demand for building materials will increase significantly between 2023 and 2026 due to a number of factors, including India’s urbanization push, a recovery in the real estate market, a positive outlook for the hospitality and health care sectors, and rising discretionary spending.
The construction industry is expanding significantly and shows no signs of slowing down as 2024 approaches. Demand for building materials is growing, which is extremely important for the economy as a whole because it accounts for over 9% of India’s GDP and employs over 50 million people.
Construction Material Market Dynamics
Drivers
- Infrastructure Development Initiatives
- Urbanization and Population Growth
- Affordable Housing Schemes
- Industrialization and Economic Growth
Technological Advancements - Green Building Practices
- Population Expansion in Tier-II and Tier-III Cities
Restraints
- Regulatory Challenges
- Infrastructure Bottlenecks
- Volatility in Raw Material Prices
- Land Acquisition Issues
- Skilled Labor Shortages
- Environmental Concerns
- Financial Constraints
- Market Fragmentation
INNOVATION AND FUTURE IN BUILDING MATERIALS
In India, the future of building materials is influenced by various factors such as urbanization, sustainability goals, technological advancements, and changing consumer preferences. Several innovations and developments are taking place, leading to the emergence of new products in the construction industry.
Here are some notable trends and innovations in building materials in India:
1.Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials:
- Bamboo-Based Products: Bamboo is gaining popularity as a sustainable building material due to its fast growth rate, renewability, and versatility. Products like bamboo flooring, panels, and structural elements are becoming more common.
- Recycled Materials: Recycling and up cycling of materials like plastic waste, glass, and industrial by-products into construction materials such as recycled concrete, eco-bricks, and recycled plastic tiles are gaining traction.
- Green Insulation: Environmentally friendly insulation materials such as natural fibers(e.g., jute, coir), cellulose insulation, and sheep’s wool insulation are being used for thermal and acoustic insulation in buildings.
2.Advanced Construction Technologies:
- Prefabricated and Modular Construction: Prefabricated modular construction techniques are being adopted to speed up construction timelines, improve quality control, and reduce material wastage.
- 3D Printing: 3D printing technology is being explored for the on-site fabrication of building components, including walls, columns, and even entire structures, offering design flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
- Robotics and Automation: Robotics and automation are being used for tasks such as bricklaying, plastering, and material handling to enhance productivity, accuracy, and safety on construction sites.
3.Energy-Efficient Solutions:
- Solar Roofing Solutions: Solar roofing systems that integrate photovoltaic cells directly into roofing materials are gaining popularity as a way to generate renewable energy and reduce electricity costs.
- High-Performance Windows: Energy-efficient windows with features like low- emissivity coatings, double glazing, and thermal breaks are being used to improve insulation and reduce heat loss in buildings.
- Cool Roof Coatings: Reflective cool roof coatings are being applied to roofs to reduce heat absorption, lower indoor temperatures, and decrease the energy required for cooling.
4.Smart Building Materials:
- Smart Sensors and IoT Integration: Building materials embedded with sensors and IoT devices enable real-time monitoring of structural health, occupancy patterns, and environmental conditions for improved building management and maintenance.
- Self-Healing Materials: Self-healing concrete and other materials with the ability to repair cracks and damage autonomously are being developed to enhance durability and longevity.
- Transparent Solar Panels: Transparent solar panels that can be integrated into windows, facades, and other building surfaces to generate electricity without compromising natural light transmission.
5.Innovative Structural Materials:
- Graphene-Enhanced Materials: Graphene, known for its strength and conductivity, is being incorporated into concrete, asphalt, and coatings to improve mechanical properties, durability, and performance.
- Engineered Wood Products: Engineered wood products like cross-laminated timber (CLT), laminated veneer lumber (LVL), and glued laminated timber (Glulam) are gaining popularity as sustainable alternatives to traditional timber for construction.
6.Green Roofing and Wall Systems:
- Green Roof Systems: Green roofs with vegetation layers provide insulation, absorb rainwater, reduce urban heat island effects, and improve air quality, contributing to sustainable building design.
- Vertical Gardens and Living Walls: Vertical gardens and living wall systems are being used for aesthetic enhancement, space optimization, and environmental benefits such as improved air quality and biodiversity.
These innovations reflect a growing emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and technological advancement in the Indian construction industry, paving the way for greener, smarter, and more resilient buildings in the future.
MEGATRENDS IN THE BUILDING MATERIAL SEGMENTS:
Customers to ‘actively engage’ in the product selection process
Many of the industry’s brands have begun focusing directly on the end user after realizing the shift in market dynamics. The end-user only “pays the cheque” in India’s building materials sector, which has historically been more of a B2B market. Terminologies used by end users are beginning to creep into the vocabulary of suppliers and brand owners. End users are becoming increasingly aware that their “involvement” in choosing and buying products helps them find the “right” product and reduces their expenses since they make their own cost-benefit analysis and pricing comparisons.
Premiumization gaining good traction:
Premiumization is another theme that has played out across categories in the last few years, and even accelerated during the pandemic as consumers spent more time at home and chose better quality and innovative products. The trend should continue given that buyer preference is shifting towards technologically-advanced products offering innovative features.
Sustainable products with optimal life-cycle value
Another key change the industry would witness is the shift to sustainability. With COP26 (26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties) making resolutions to fight the climate catastrophe, there is an increased focus on using and producing environmentally sustainable products, especially in the case of this industry. In 2022, the industry should attempt to minimise impact and use 100% recyclable products or eco-friendly products etc. wherever possible, for a sustainable future.
Organized sector gaining market share via portfolio and distribution expansion
Over the previous two years, larger and more organized companies have taken a larger portion of the market, while smaller players were unable to withstand the periodic lockdowns that were enforced during the COVID-19 out break. Larger companies simultaneously stepped up their distribution growth efforts in unexplored markets. All of the major players aim to increase market share by fortifying their operations in semi-urban and rural areas and appealing to these price-conscious consumers with their less costly portfolios sold under a different brand.
Emergence of alternate sales channels
Alternate channels (modern trade and e-Commerce) gained good traction (up to 35% share in sales in some kitchen appliance categories) owing to the ease of buying products at attractive discounts. We believe the traditional distribution channel will continue to dominate the overall sales in the longer term even as alternate channels will gradually gain market share.
New construction technologies
It is anticipated that the emergence of 3D printing will cause significant disruptions in the construction sector. With the use of this technology, shapes that are specifically designed and cannot be made using any other method can be generated. In certain applications, productivity increases of up to 80% are possible, and waste can be significantly reduced. Certain buildings might be constructed in a matter of hours rather than weeks, and the cost of bespoke components could be significantly reduced.
GREEN BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR BUILDING MATERIALS IN INDIA
- Green building practices in India focus on reducing environmental impact, conserving resources, and enhancing occupant health and comfort.
- The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) promotes green building initiatives and certifies projects under the Green Building Rating System.
Opportunities for Building Materials in Green Building:
Sustainable Sourcing:
- Demand for building materials sourced from sustainable and certified forests, such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified wood products.
- Opportunities for suppliers to offer eco- certified materials that comply with green building standards like IGBC Green Homes.
Recycled and Upcycled Materials:
- Increasing interest in building materials made from recycled content, including recycled concrete aggregates, fly ash bricks, and recycled plastic tiles.
- Opportunities for manufacturers to develop innovative products that utilize recycled materials and contribute to waste reduction efforts.
Energy-Efficient Solutions:
- Growing demand for energy-efficient building materials, such as low-E windows, insulated roofing materials, and energy-efficient lighting fixtures.
- Opportunities for manufacturers to provide materials that improve thermal performance, reduce energy consumption, and qualify for green building certifications.
Green Insulation and Thermal Solutions:
- Rising need for sustainable insulation materials like cellulose insulation, mineral wool, and eco- friendly foam insulation.
- Opportunities for suppliers to offer environmentally friendly insulation solutions that enhance energy efficiency and indoor comfort levels.
Smart and Connected Materials:
- Emerging trend of integrating smart sensors and IoT devices into building materials for real-time monitoring and control of energy usage, indoor air quality, and water consumption.
- Opportunities for manufacturers to develop smart building materials that optimize building performance and contribute to smart city initiatives.
The green building sector in India presents significant opportunities for building material manufacturers to innovate, adapt sustainable practices, and cater to the growing demand for environmentally friendly construction solutions.
DIGITIZATION IN SUPPLY CHAIN OF BUILDING MATERIALS
Digitization is transforming the supply chain of building materials, bringing efficiency, transparency, and agility to the industry. Here’s how digitization is revolutionizing the supply chain of building materials:
- E-Commerce Platforms: Online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms connect buyers and sellers of building materials, streamlining the procurement process and providing access to a wide range of products.
- Digital Catalogs and Product Information: Digital catalogs and online product information repositories allow buyers to easily access detailed specifications, pricing, and availability of building materials, facilitating informed purchasing decisions.
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Supply Chain Visibility: Digital tools such as supply chain management software and IoT sensors provide real-time visibility into inventory levels, production schedules, and shipment tracking, enabling better inventory management and logistics planning.
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Predictive Analytics: Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms analyze data from various sources to predict demand fluctuations, optimize inventory levels, and anticipate supply chain disruptions, improving supply chain resilience and efficiency.
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Blockchain Technology: Blockchain technology ensures transparency, traceability, and authenticity in the supply chain by creating immutable records of transactions and product provenance, reducing the risk of counterfeiting and fraud.
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Supplier Collaboration Platforms: Digital platforms facilitate collaboration and communication between suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and contractors, enabling seamless coordination and information sharing across the supply chain.
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Mobile Applications: Mobile apps enable stakeholders to access supply chain information, place orders, track deliveries, and communicate with suppliers on the go, enhancing convenience and productivity.
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3D Printing/Additive Manufacturing: Additive manufacturing technologies enable on-demand production of custom building components and spare parts, reducing lead times and inventory costs while enabling design flexibility.
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Robotic Automation: Robotics and automation streamline manufacturing processes, warehouse operations, and material handling tasks, increasing productivity, reducing labor costs, and improving accuracy in the supply chain.
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Digital Payments: Digital payment solutions such as electronic invoicing, online payments, and mobile wallets simplify financial transactions, accelerate payment cycles, and reduce paperwork in the procurement process.
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Environmental Sustainability: Digitization promotes sustainability by optimizing transportation routes, reducing carbon emissions, minimizing waste through better inventory management, and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials.
GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES
In conclusion, there appears to be plenty of opportunities ahead for the Indian building material sector. A solid basis for continuous expansion in this industry is provided by the government’s ongoing investments in infrastructure development and its dedication to turning India’s economy into a $5 trillion economy. The building material industry will see a growth in demand for a variety of materials, such as uPVC, tiles, ready-mix concrete, aluminium, steel, and other sustainable building solutions, as urbanization and the need for contemporary infrastructure continue to rise. The Indian building material sector has the potential to significantly influence the development of the country’s infrastructure and future economic expansion if it adopts the appropriate policies and takes the initiative.
The Government initiatives play a crucial role in driving demand for building materials, promoting sustainable construction practices, and supporting the growth of the building material industry in India. It is anticipated that house sales will peak in the coming years. The real estate business is expected to be supported and strengthened by several favourable government policy initiatives, among other contributing factors. In addition, the market is seeing a consistent and rising demand for homes. In the following year, it is anticipated that the combined impact of favourable government policies and the steadily rising demand for housing would push home sales to all-time highs, impacting real
estate values. The last ten years have seen an upward trajectory in residential property prices due to rising interest rates and supply-demand dynamics. The Government focusses on promoting tourisnm and attracting foreign investments for IT infrastructure, global engineering sector, etc which will lead to a boost in hotel and commercial requirements.
India’s commercial real estate industry has shown continuous growth, defying the worldwide trend that has been faltering in recent years. India’s economy is currently the fifth largest in the world, but by 2029 it is expected to rise to the third rank. The administration has placed a strong emphasis on advancing India’s request for improved commercial space.
Commercial offices may face difficulties if the world’s current headwinds continue, which might impact capital allocation as well as demand. Nonetheless, these difficulties are not unique to India and are probably going to affect everyone on the planet. Given India’s standing as a leading global technology hub and current developments, the nation appears to be in a good position to weather this and show more resilience.