Global Consumer Water Treatment Systems

What Opportunities Does China’s Growing Middle Class Offer?

In 2017, China was the largest market for consumer water treatment systems in the world with 33% of global sales. Still, China’s demand outlook is robust due to growing availability of water treatment systems, more informed consumers, and rising average incomes producing a larger middle class. This combination of factors will provide ample sales opportunities for manufacturers going forward.

Key Findings in the Global Consumer Water Treatment Systems Study:

Media Reports Inform Consumers and Raise Water Quality Concerns

Consumers are more aware of the potential issues with their water supply than ever before. Information on water issues is increasingly disseminated via the internet and a 24-hour news cycle. For instance, in the US, concerns over lead contamination from old infrastructure have created new customers. In emerging areas, such as China and India, growing alarm over pollution and untreated water are driving gains. Going forward, rising consumer education – either from industry efforts or media reports – will drive sales.

Increases in Housing Construction Provide New Demand Opportunities

Potential demand prospects will arise from an improving housing market, as point-of-entry systems and, to a lesser extent, point-of-use under-sink systems are often installed during home construction or soon after. Globally, new housing construction is expected to accelerate through 2022. In developed areas, this growth represents an expansion of the potential market. However, in emerging areas, these new homes are only part of the potential market, as these systems have limited penetration in existing households.

High Value Systems Spur Upgrades, Supporting Gains in Mature Markets

Systems on the market today are constructed with higher-level treatment options and advanced electronics, carrying higher prices. Comprehensive, multistage treatment systems, systems with membrane separation or UV disinfection, and units that can monitor usage are increasingly pervasive. Innovations like these will support replacement and upgrade sales in mature markets like the US and Western Europe. Features that promote timely filter and membrane replacement will support demand for aftermarket parts.

Study Coverage

This study presents historical data (2007, 2012, and 2017) and forecasts for 2022 by product (point-of-entry water treatment systems, and countertop, under-sink, faucet-mounted, and flow-through and other point-of-use systems) in units and US dollars and by technology (conventional filtration, membrane separation, other technologies) in US dollars for 21 countries and 6 world regions (North America, Central & South America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia/Pacific, Africa/Mideast). The study covers aftermarket components for consumer water treatment systems. The study also evaluates key industry players in the global market for consumer water treatment systems.