COFEARFE strengthens the export leadership of the Spanish hardware sector thanks to a sustained growth strategy

Market analysis

The Spanish Federation of Hardware and DIY Manufacturers (COFEARFE) is consolidating its leading position on the international stage. This success is based on consistent export growth and a well-defined internationalization strategy, positioning the sector as a global benchmark.

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The resilience and strong international focus of Spanish industry were once again evident during the last General Assembly of cofearfeThe presentation of the 2025 report The entity confirms the excellent state of the sector of hardware and DIY, which closed the last fiscal year with a global turnover of 4.360 millones de eurosThis is a segment that, in addition to its undeniable economic weight, acts as an important employment backbone, supporting more than 19.200 jobs live performances recorded throughout 2024.

In the field of foreign tradeThe sector has posted a string of decidedly positive results. Spanish exports Sales of hardware and DIY products amounted to 2.641 billion euros in 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of 7,23 %In this trade balance, the European continent remains the priority trading partner and absorbs the 76% of exports, driven primarily by demand from traditional markets such as France, Portugal and Germany.

However, the most revealing data regarding geographical diversification comes from the other side of the Atlantic. Spanish products have been exceptionally well received in United States, a strategic market where imports of these items have experienced a spectacular jump of 29,03%.

Comprehensive strategy for international promotion

This increase in global market share is not a matter of chance, but rather the result of intensive positioning efforts driven by the employers' association. In this regard, cofearfe has successfully completed the execution of 100% of its foreign promotion planThe strategy has focused on supporting national companies at the main international forums and trade fairs in the sector, such as BAU Munich, interzum in Cologne, Spoga+Gafa y SICAM in the Italian city of Pordenone. Furthermore, the competitiveness of manufacturers has been strengthened through trade missions and the deployment of market intelligence tools such as Localiza Export.

Good prospects for bathroom and kitchen fittings

The breakdown of the data, through the Federation's Market Observatory, also reveals very favorable figures for the subsector of bathroom and kitchen equipmentThis specific niche has now accumulated eight consecutive quarters of positive figures, ending 2025 with a year-on-year increase of 4,6 %.

The positive momentum appears destined to continue, as reflected in the business climate index for the first months of 2026, which stands at 70,4 points out of 100This demonstrates a robust level of confidence within the industry.

Given this scenario of expansion, the top officials of the Federation wanted to emphasize their institutional roadmap for the coming years: "We reaffirm our commitment to continue being the driving force behind the competitiveness, innovation and digital transformation of the industry, ensuring that Spanish companies have the necessary support to successfully lead their internationalization processes."the organization stated.

Strategic Pillar	Main goal	Impact on Exports
Quality and Certification	Meet the standards of demanding markets.	Access to high value-added markets (UE, EE.UU.).
Product Innovation	Differentiation from low-cost competitors.	Improved margins and customer loyalty.
Market Diversification	Reduce dependence on traditional markets.	Taking advantage of opportunities in emerging economies.

Key points and frequently asked questions about COFEARFE's export leadership

How does COFEARFE's leadership affect a Spanish company in the sector that is not a member?
Indirectly, the strengthening of the brand Spain In the hardware and DIY sector, this benefits all domestic manufacturers, creating a perception of quality and reliability among international buyers. However, direct benefits such as access to market research, participation in joint trade missions, and institutional support are reserved for member companies.

What business implications does this positioning have for competing in Europe?
This leadership consolidates Spanish manufacturers as a key player in the European market. It allows them to negotiate better terms with major distributors, compete more effectively with traditional rivals such as German and Italian manufacturers, and positions Spanish companies as benchmarks for innovation and quality, beyond just price.

What should exporters in the sector know in this consolidation scenario?
Exporters should seize this momentum to strengthen their own internationalization strategies. It's an ideal time to leverage the strong reputation of the Spanish sector, highlight quality and design in their business proposals, and explore strategic markets where the Spanish presence is growing stronger thanks to the work of organizations such as COFEARFE.