Metrotile UK enjoys 30% annual growth forecast

Leading lightweight roof tile firm Metrotile UK has enjoyed more than 30 per cent sales growth on last year, having just sold its millionth tile of 2014.

Providing a variety of tiles for commercial and domestic premises, the company is forecasting sales of 1.16 million tiles this year, turning over record figures of £7.1 million with nett profits expected to reach £679,000.

September’s sales of over 120,000 tiles gave the Chippenham-based firm, which employs 17 staff in Wiltshire and around the UK, its best ever month.

A significant contributor to the performance is major rise in the sale of tiles for conservatories, which has provided 25 per cent of the firm’s growth this year.

John Cunningham, Managing Director of Metrotile UK said the benefits of lightweight steel tiles for a variety of uses, for local authorities and housing associations, to factory builders and roofing contractors, are beginning to become common knowledge. “We sell a wide range of tiles suitable for many different purposes and the benefits – in terms of lower construction costs and lessened environmental impact – are significant," he said.

“The thing about lightweight steel tiles is that they require much less structural support – perfect for lighter structures and low-pitch roofs, highly versatile but remaining aesthetically pleasing.

“It’s proving to be a great time for us and the key to our growth has been our awareness of emerging markets which lets us satisfy our customers’ requirements. On top of rising sales for in our more traditional markets in commercial and domestic roofing, the surge in conservatory sales is really accelerating our expansion.”

Metrotile UK is part of an international success story that has been in operation for over 30 years. Its systems and accessories can be seen upon rooftops in over 60 countries worldwide.

Practical, economical and sustainable, the tiles are up to seven times lighter than traditional roof materials such as clay and slate, yet they offer unmatched protection and security as well as a 40 year guarantee on all products in the range.

The products are manufactured in Belgium and shipped regularly to the UK, as well as other locations around the world.

Mr Cunningham said: “We have completed projects all over the UK on a huge variety of roofs, from private homes, working men’s clubs and renovations of housing stock to sports clubs, supermarkets and even a bird observatory.

“Apart from continuing to grow in the conservatory market, we are also really keen to forge relationships with developers. Our product has massive cost-saving potential for developments due to the shallower foundations which buildings with lightweight roofs require.

“Indeed, we believe Metrotile roofs can create a change of practice on timber frame construction, in terms of being pre-constructed and quickly lifted into place, rather than being assembled once the frame is erected and exposed to the elements.”