China & Earthenware Plumbing Fixture Manufacturing

China & Earthenware Plumbing Fixture Manufacturing

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry manufacture earthenware plumbing fixtures, tableware, and other ceramic products. Major companies include CoorsTek and Kohler (US), Duravit and Villeroy & Boch (Germany), as well as Kyocera and TOTO (Japan).

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is primarily driven by construction spending and consumer income. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations and effective marketing. Large companies enjoy economies of scale in purchasing and marketing. Small companies can compete by offering niche products. The industry is highly concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 85% of industry revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Major products include wet and dry process voltage porcelain products; and vitreous plumbing fixtures, which both accounts for about 40% of the industry revenue. Other products include stoneware table and kitchen articles; chemical, technical, and industrial pottery ware; statuary and related art goods; and vitreous china, porcelain, and earthenware.