By Neil Cooper-Smith, senior analyst, Business Pilot.
Aprilβs figures suggest a market finding its rhythm after the momentum we saw in March. Although some metrics have dipped slightly, others show signs of improving consistency, reflecting a steady β if cautious β consumer sentiment.
Average leads decreased by 5.5%, down fromΒ 114.7 in March to 108.4 in April, signalling a mild pullback in new enquiries. This isnβt unusual considering the shift in focus over the Easter period and other seasonal distractions. Still, lead levels remained above February, pointing to an overall upward trend compared to the winter months.
Sales softened slightly, moving fromΒ 52.5 in March to 51.4 in April, aΒ 2.1% decrease. This modest change supports the narrative that while homeowners are still converting, they may be taking more time to finalise decisions or committing to smaller projects.
Thatβs echoed in theΒ average order value, which dropped significantly fromΒ Β£5,990 in March to Β£3,994 in April β aΒ 33.3% decrease. While this seems stark, it points to a stabilisation following Marchβs spike, which likely included a number of significant orders. Aprilβs figure is still well above FebruaryβsΒ Β£3,688, reinforcing the view that consumer investment is still healthy, albeit more measured.
Conversion rates improved slightly, up fromΒ 39.6% in March to 39.9% in April, representing aΒ 0.8% increase. While marginal, itβs a positive signal that a higher proportion of enquiries are being turned into business, suggesting more decisive buying behaviour.
In our view, the data from April signals a normalising market. After a buoyant March, Aprilβs results are reassuringly steady. Installers should be confident in sustained interest but must continue to offer value, clarity, and excellent service to maintain high conversion.
This is also a timely reminder of the power of data. Business Pilot gives you complete visibility into whatβs working and where to focus efforts; itβs this kind of insight that allows businesses to pivot quickly and maintain profitability, no matter how the market shifts.