EXTON, PA, January 16, 2006 /- Many participants throughout the composite decking and railing industry are concerned about the lackluster growth experienced in 2005 as compared to the past few years. Many are asking about the reasons behind the softer-than-expected performance?

Going into 2005 the industry was on pace for another record year of growth, but then momentum slowed and ultimately the market experienced declines in growth rate in excess of 30% compared to 2004. To better understand this condition, Principia Partners, recognized as the leading monitor of the wood-plastic composites (WPC) industry, is conducting an important diagnostic and analytical review of 2005, with a look ahead at what the industry can expect in 2006.

Lou Rossi, Senior Partner at Principia explains "We believe the timing for such a study couldn't be better. It is important to use 2004 as a benchmark point in time and investigate the drivers of 2005 market performance to provide valuable understanding about what the industry can expect for 2006."

Key questions to be addressed include:

• Is the adoption rate of the composite decking market slowing? - If so, why?
• How real are previous demand projections?
• Have key market drivers shifted?
• Are competing materials grabbing market share?
• What are the implications of a slower growth curve over the short & long term?
• Is there a shift in decking material sales channels?
• Is the market experiencing capacity related issues?
• Are inventories too high?
• Are there external economic factors attributing to the slow down?

Mr. Rossi says "If anyone is in the planning or forecasting mode, or must review their company's performance against others in the industry, this study will be critical to their efforts."

Principia Partners is a leading international business consulting firm, and has extensive experience in building products and plastics industries. In particular, the Firm has closely monitored the market for WPCs and other synthetic building products over the past 10 years through various research efforts. For more information, visit the company's web site at www.PrincipiaConsulting.com. A prospectus of this study is also available by calling Lou Rossi at 484/459-2238.

SOURCE: Principia Partners

Media contact:
Principia Partners
Lou Rossi
800/378-8330 ext. 238 or 484/459-2238
LRossi@PrincipiaConsulting.com