Global demand to push scaffolding market to $16bn by end of decade

The global scaffolding and accessories market is forecast to grow at more than 8% a year to 2030, driven by construction activity, modular systems, and increasing use of digital technologies, according to new industry research.

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The global scaffolding and accessories market is expected to grow to $16.3bn by 2030, adding more than $4bn in value over the next four years, according to new research published by Research and Markets.

The study forecasts a compound annual growth rate of 8.1% between 2026 and 2030, with market value rising from an estimated $11.93bn in 2026.

Growth follows several years of steady expansion, including a reported 8.4% CAGR in 2025.

The report identifies increasing volumes of construction projects as the primary driver of global demand, supported by urbanisation, residential development, and major infrastructure investment.

North America led the market in 2025, with strong contributions from Asia-Pacific and Europe. The United States, China, Germany, and Australia are highlighted as key national markets.

Demand is also being supported by industrial sectors including shipbuilding, oil and gas, and heavy engineering, where scaffolding remains a critical temporary access solution.

Modular systems and digital tools gain ground

According to the research, adoption of modular scaffold systems and adjustable components continues to increase, alongside greater use of lightweight materials.

Technology is playing a growing role in product development and site operations. The report points to emerging use of smart monitoring, automated safety controls, AI-driven safety measures, and digital material tracking systems on construction sites.

While uptake varies between regions, these technologies are increasingly seen as part of standard practice rather than specialist add-ons.

Industry reaction and UK perspective

Commenting on the findings, NASC Group Chief Executive Clive Dickin said the projected growth reflects sustained effort across the sector rather than rapid expansion.

He said the global outlook aligns with feedback NASC has received through its work with the International Association for Scaffolding and Access (IASA), which points to consistent growth across markets despite regional differences.

However, Dickin noted that conditions in the UK remain challenging for some contractors, citing slow progress on government-backed housing and infrastructure projects and wider economic stagnation.

The report highlights ongoing consolidation among major manufacturers and suppliers, including acquisitions aimed at broadening global capability and combining scaffolding and formwork solutions.

It also notes challenges linked to global trade instability and tariffs, which have increased costs for imported materials. In response, the research suggests some manufacturers are shifting towards local production and modular design to strengthen supply chains and reduce exposure.

A broad and fragmented market

The study analyses the market across multiple segments, including couplers, base plates, brackets, and structural components, as well as steel and aluminium systems.

Applications span residential, commercial, and industrial construction, with distribution split across online and offline channels.

Major companies referenced include Altrad, PERI, Layher, BrandSafeway, RMD Kwikform, AT-PAC, ULMA, HAKI, and Scafom-Rux, alongside manufacturers across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Despite economic uncertainty in some regions, the report concludes that long-term demand for scaffolding and access systems remains strong, underpinned by construction activity, infrastructure needs, and continued technological development.

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