The Rs. 5,000 Crore architectural glass industry is on the verge of a revolution, acquiring a new look as the major Global players in the segment are looking at consolidating through massive investments in land, manpower and technology and are resorting aggressive branding initiatives towards carving a niche for themselves in their products.

So far, the glass segment had been a low involvement commodity as far as the end consumers are concerned and the knowledge levels are very low in the consumer's mind space. The sudden advertising spree has given this industry a new customer face and there is also an enhanced initiative by the companies to create awareness of the new technologies and innovative products and services.

In addition growing quality consciousness has led to a rapid growth in the float glass segment, in a market which was pre-dominantly a sheet glass market till six years back. Float glass currently has 70 percent market share and is driving the growth in the sector. As per industry estimates, the sector has been growing at 8 percent for the last couple of years and is expected to grow at 10-15 percent in the coming years.

There has been a massive improvement in glazing and cladding work with product innovations, introduction of Aluminium composite and steel panels, sleek fittings, etc., The concept of doors and windows has undergone considerable changes with the introduction of futuristic product innovations and transcendental improvement through the use of technology.

Zak Glasstech, strategic initiative of the Zak Group, is one of the most important platform to converge the new technologies and the business community. Zak Glasstech has grown as major activity hub for the entire SAARC countries.

"Zak Glasstech" is scheduled to be the largest ever convergence of all the stakeholders of the glass industry in the country, which will help bring in new technologies, innovative in service, cost effective production, better quality and crucial global trade relationship", says Mr. Syed Zakir Ahmed, The Managing Director, Zak Trade Fairs & Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd., India