BIRKDALE: FORWARD LOOK
As the UK fencing sector moves forward into late 2025 and beyond, Birkdale is well-positioned at the intersection of several major trends re-shaping the market. It’s redefining boundaries, making them smarter, safer and stronger.
Whether it’s acoustic fencing that protects communities, composite panels that resist decay, or smarter fencing accessories and tools that save time on site, Birkdale is redefining what’s possible.
Most notably the DuraPost® steel fence post and composite panel range, reflects what customers are asking for. There is a stronger demand for durable, low-maintenance, sustainable, and design-led fencing solutions. Whilst in the commercial space, there is more demand for noise reducing fencing systems, versatile and fire-tested bin store enclosures and more sustainable options. Birkdale is not just responding to the changes in the industry but helping to lead the way through increased product innovation, new sustainable products and customer centred diversification.
Innovation in Materials & Durability
Wood and concrete have long been the default materials for fence posts and panels, but their vulnerabilities, rot, warping, cracking, weather damage, are driving a shift. Birkdale’s DuraPost® fencing collection, with its cold-rolled galvanised steel posts, delivers a durable alternative. The classic steel posts are 80% lighter than typical concrete posts, yet far more resistant to the elements.
Additionally, composite options like DuraPost VISTA® afford durability without the maintenance burden, the panels don’t rot or splinter, they are UV-stabilised, include FSC approved options and come with a 15-year guarantee. This aligns with broader trends toward low-ownership overhead, where people want long term fencing, without the frequent upkeep.
Sustainability & Environmental Credentials
At Birkdale, sustainability is a central part of how we operate and grow. It influences our product development, how we support our customers, and the way we manage our impact on the world around us. We are working toward a future where fencing is not only durable and secure but also contributes to a healthier environment. Our approach is guided by three key goals: supporting people, protecting the planet, and building shared prosperity. We believe our progress should be measured by the positive effects we have on communities and the environment, not just by business results.
We are always exploring ways to improve both the performance and the environmental impact of our products. From on-site adjustable gate frames that minimise material waste to retaining systems made entirely from recycled plastic, our innovations aim to reduce unnecessary use of resources without compromising on quality or function. We intentionally design our products with features that enhance biodiversity. Small additions like hedgehog holes in our fence panels contribute meaningfully to local wildlife and help preserve natural ecosystems.
To reduce our environmental footprint, we offset all of our direct and indirect emissions through Carbon Neutral Britain. We also track and report our emissions every year in line with ISO 14064-1:2018 and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. As members of the Royal Warrant Holders Association, we support and reflect their environmental objectives in our own efforts.
Design, Aesthetics & Customisation
Customers are no longer satisfied with standard fence panels; they increasingly view a fence as architectural and a design element. Birkdale’s DuraPost® fencing range is inherently flexible in design: there are multiple styles of panels, composite boards, colour-matched fixings, caps, capping rails, etc. There are various colour options such as anthracite grey, galvanised steel look, sepia brown, olive grey, and more. Composite board ranges like VISTA and URBAN are available in new bespoke colourways. This means customers can balance beauty with performance and choose combinations that suit their style and the local environment.
Also, ease of installation is key. Lighter steel posts, modular panels, well-designed accessories (caps, rails, gates) and a network of trained approved DuraPost® installers all contribute to reducing the cost/time burden for both trade and residential customers. Birkdale’s promise of, “sturdy, stylish, and effortless to install” reflects this.
Market Segments & Commercial Demand
Growth is expected in both residential and commercial sectors, with different priorities for each. Residential customers are likely to emphasise ease of installation, appearance, low maintenance, and eco credentials. Birkdale’s free sample offerings, fence-builder tools/apps, support videos, and approved DuraPost® installer network are powerful enablers.
Whilst the commercial, trade, infrastructure and housing developers will focus more on durability, compliance, safety, soundproof fencing, lifecycle costs, and procurement efficiency. Birkdale’s Acoustic Sound Shield Pro® fencing range and large merchant network will make this sector an important area of future growth.
Emerging Opportunities
As the industry continues to evolve, there are opportunities to capitalise on premiumisation and differentiation. Fencing products that offer both strong performance and high-end design, colour-matched components, composite panels, good warranties can and will command premium positioning.
There is also the eco-driven public procurement. Local authorities, housing associations, and infrastructure firms are under pressure to choose low-carbon, durable solutions. Birkdale’s data, wide product range and 40+ industry experience offer commercial projects a distinct competitive edge.
The market will also experience DIY and trade synergies. With better guides, tools, videos, and installer networks, there’s potential to grow, both in trade channels and in the growing DIY market, especially amongst homeowners who want quicker and less labour-intensive installations.
For Birkdale, seizing emerging opportunities, means staying true to its core strengths, sustainability, durability, design flexibility, all whilst investing in improved customer experience, product diversification, the Birkdale brand and streamlining in supply chain for further efficiencies, without compromising quality.
