Market Analysis of Erosion Control Mats
| Authors: | Brian Shepley, Robert Smith, Gerry Jackson |
| Year: | 2002 |
| Type: | Research Note |
| Station: | Forest Products Laboratory |
| Source: | USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, Research Note, FPL-RN-0284, 2002;11 p. |
Abstract
Controlling erosion is a serious and challenging task. Annually, erosion is responsible for billions of dollars of damage worldwide. Erosion control mats (ECMs) were developed to control erosion and provide soil stability until vegetation can be established. There are hundreds of products in the erosion control market. Erosion control mats are made from organic materials, synthetic materials, and sometimes a combination of the two. This study is a market analysis of ECMs based on a telephone survey of nine manufacturers and a literature search. The objective of the market analysis was to provide background information and to summarize the ECM industry. The objective of the telephone survey was to determine information about ECMs such as the price, mode of promotion and distribution, most popular product, and current demand and growth potential. The product background section provides a brief description of the most popular types of ECMs. The analysis focuses on the market history, major competitors, major consumers, market size, demand and growth, and the results of a telephone survey. Thirty-eight major competitors were found as well as several major consumers. The telephone survey provided information on current trends in pricing, promotion, and distribution; popular ECM types; and major consumers. The market analysis determined that the market for ECMs will grow based on the fact that the world population is projected to increase, therefore increasing construction of buildings and roads. Also, the fact that some ECMs are made with natural products instead of synthetic products helps them win acceptance in public opinion.