B2B MARKET RESEARCH: A DISCIPLINE WITH SPECIAL FEATURES

Market research projects in the business-to-business (B2B) sector differ significantly from comparable tasks in end-customer markets (business-to-consumer or B2C). Industrial market research often requires a different methodological approach than analyses in consumer markets. Different data sources must be evaluated, and the scope of available secondary information is limited, especially in highly technical or innovative industries. Against this background, expert interviews with market participants and customers, for example, play a key role in assessing market opportunities and risks in industrial market research.

The Munich-based market research company MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH specializes in B2B market research and market and competitive analysis . Since its founding in 2007, our team has specialized in analyzing market developments in the automotive, mechanical engineering, electronics, medical technology, and energy technology sectors . Since then, we have successfully completed more than 300 projects in these industries for our clients.

CURRENT PROJECT EXAMPLES OF OUR B2B MARKET RESEARCH

For industrial companies, we develop customized market studies tailored to their specific requirements. Click on the project examples to learn more about some of MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH's projects in the industrial sector.

The development of charging infrastructure represents one of the greatest challenges in the implementation of electromobility. The charging technology market includes providers of wall boxes, charging cables, and AC and DC charging stations. Innovative technologies such as inductive charging systems and bidirectional charging are also emerging. For our client, a leading manufacturer of charging cables for e-mobility, we examined the charging cable market in Germany, Europe, and worldwide, as well as the leading charging system providers in the market. Our client used our B2B market research on e-mobility cables and charging systems to make informed decisions regarding the strategic development of the company's division.

What market opportunities does the future of autonomous, connected vehicles offer for automotive suppliers outside of the electronics and software sectors? How do self-driving vehicles impact the overall market and demand for specific vehicle components? How will service concepts and spare parts requirements change in the context of a shared mobility future? A leading international automotive supplier in the chassis components sector commissioned us to analyze these strategic questions as part of a customer-specific B2B market research project.

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) autonomously transport goods and production materials in warehouses and production halls. Thanks to sensor technology, they can navigate safely even in dynamic environments, avoid obstacles, and independently reach different destinations. The market for AMRs is clearly a growth market: By 2025, it is expected to grow by 40% annually in terms of unit volume, reaching approximately 572,000 units annually worldwide. For our client, a major supplier in the sensor technology sector, we conducted customized B2B market research to analyze growth potential in the AMR market and investigate the leading technology companies in the industry.

For a mechanical engineering company's innovative new development in the field of waterjet cutting, we conducted B2B market research, examining, among other things, market potential, the competitive situation, and customer requirements in Europe. Through more than 30 in-depth interviews with numerous potential users in the contract manufacturing and supply industries, the B2B market research provided a clear picture of the industry and its potential. Our analysis results formed a solid foundation for our client's further market development strategy.

In a customized market entry analysis, we analyzed the market for powertrain test benches, engine test benches, and chassis test benches for our client, a medium-sized manufacturer of high-performance electric motors. Of particular relevance was the currently rapidly growing segment for electric motor test benches, which must be designed for particularly high speeds and are currently in high demand. We conducted structured B2B market research for our client on market sizes, growth forecasts, the most important test bench manufacturers in Europe, and the competitive situation. Extensive interviews with decision-makers at leading test bench manufacturers enabled our client to gain a deep understanding of industry requirements. The results of our analysis formed the basis for our client's strategic orientation in this attractive market segment.

Single-use inhalers are becoming increasingly important in the global market as an innovative delivery method for medicinal products. Nearly 1 billion inhalers are produced worldwide annually. For our client, a supplier of specialty components for inhalers, we conducted a systematic international research study on market potential and leading inhaler manufacturers in Europe.

The increasing possibilities of improved analytical and testing procedures in the laboratory and new rapid tests for use in the doctor's office or directly by the patient are driving a growing demand for point-of-care (POC) testing systems. To capitalize on the opportunities offered by this innovative market segment, a supplier planning to enter the market commissioned us to conduct Europe-wide B2B market research in this segment. By evaluating extensive secondary sources, we compiled a current overview of the current situation in the POC testing market, the most important competitors in the industry, and the 50 most important target customers in the pharmaceutical industry.

Traditional energy suppliers are currently investing heavily in the expansion of innovative energy services. Examples of new business areas include decentralized generation solutions, energy storage systems, solutions for electromobility, and smart home offerings. Large energy corporations like E.ON plan to generate €1 billion annually with these new solutions. Precise market knowledge and a detailed overview of the competitive landscape are essential for developing these new business areas. For our client, a B2B customer in the energy industry, we conducted a customized trend analysis of the energy services market in Germany.

FOCUS INDUSTRIES OF OUR INDUSTRIAL MARKET RESEARCH

Our company analyzes the opportunities in tomorrow's markets : Autonomous, connected vehicles, intelligent production facilities, renewable energy technology, smart homes, and connected medical devices are just a few of the market developments that offer great potential for innovative industrial companies. Our market segments at a glance:

Automotive

Current market data and trends for OEMs, automotive suppliers and innovative service providers

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Electromobility

Trends and innovations in electric vehicles, charging technology and fuel cells

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Mechanical engineering

Market potential and growth opportunities for innovative machine manufacturers and suppliers worldwide

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Medical technology

Growth potential and innovations for medical technology manufacturers and suppliers

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electronics

New markets and potential in the growth markets of electronics and semiconductors

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energy

Current market data and forecasts in energy technology worldwide

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR B2B MARKET RESEARCH

Here we answer some frequently asked questions from our clients about conducting B2B market research:

B2B market research stands for market research in the business-to-business sector . This refers to market research in industries that supply their products and services exclusively to corporate customers and institutional buyers (B2B companies). Important B2B industries include automotive suppliers, mechanical engineering companies, suppliers in the electrical engineering sector, and companies in the energy technology sector. IT and software companies also frequently supply industrial customers and therefore usually fall into the B2B sector. B2B industries supply corporate customers in the industrial value chain . B2B market research is thus distinct from B2C market research (business-to-consumer).

B2B markets are often characterized by a high degree of technical expertise, so B2B market researchers require technical background knowledge and market understanding . Many B2B market analyses also focus on specific niche markets for which less data is available than for consumer goods markets. Therefore, B2B market research requires methodological and source-based expertise and access to industry-relevant specialized sources . Due to the highly international nature of B2B markets, market researchers should also be able market and company information across national borders .

The key questions addressed in B2B market research are (1) market size and potential, (2) future market growth, (3) competitive situation and strategic analysis of key competitors, (4) customer structure and customer requirements, and (5) trends and developments within the industry. However, no two B2B market research projects at MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH are the same: Since each B2B market analysis is individually tailored to the client's requirements, priorities can be set to tailor the market study to the specific information needs.

To obtain B2B market information, we utilize specialized international company databases, industrial trade press databases, and international annual report databases. Particularly important: Our experience from more than 300 completed B2B market research projects allows us to reliably assess reliability of relevant industry sources . We also frequently conduct telephone interviews with market experts and decision-makers in the industry under study to obtain a neutral and up-to-date picture of the market.

Especially in technically oriented niches and innovative fields, expert interviews are essential for obtaining a solid assessment of market opportunities and risks. Therefore, MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH usually supplements structured secondary research with systematic expert interviews.

We identify suitable contacts in the value chain , e.g. potential B2B customers, market partners, suppliers, institutes, research facilities or authorities. Our network of several hundred completed B2B market research projects helps us to quickly reach the right contact in order to collect the necessary data. By conducting open discussions, we ensure the willingness of the interview partners to cooperate. Each interview yields valuable information that enables a better assessment of opportunities, risks and development potential in the target market.  An online survey such as that often used by B2C companies rarely produces the desired result for companies in the industrial sector. The open discussion mentioned above, coupled with specific industry-related knowledge, for example about business relationships, target groups or the positioning of the company being surveyed in the B2B market, are important success factors for successfully collecting the desired information.

B2B market research requires a methodology tailored to the specific circumstances. Specific industry knowledge is critical to success, and the market research agency should be able to demonstrate relevant industry references within your industry. Access to market experts is not only important for gaining a precise understanding of target groups, customers, competitors, and potential opportunities, but also for defining your niche and key terms/products. Therefore, when conducting industrial market research, it is recommended to collaborate with a specialized consulting firm that brings extensive experience and expertise in the relevant market segment.

Do you have any further questions about your B2B market research? We would be happy to assist you.

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INDIVIDUAL IMPLEMENTATION FOR YOUR MARKET SEGMENTS

Industrial market research from MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH is as individual as the client's specific situation. For example, we conduct market studies for industrial companies to enter the market with a new product. Our clients often also use the results of our industrial market research for the strategic direction of a company division or for competitor analysis .

To support sales efforts, we regularly conduct B2B customer and target group analyses and survey decision-makers at key target customers about their requirements and challenges. We also support investors, private equity firms, and M&A advisors with  commercial due diligence in the context of acquisitions and mergers.

FOCUS: INDUSTRIAL MARKET RESEARCH FOR 5 CORE INDUSTRIES

MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH specializes in B2B market analysis and industrial market research in technology-oriented industries. With our clear focus, we support clients from the automotive (OEMs and suppliers), electronics, mechanical engineering, energy, and medical technology sectors with customized B2B market research. Numerous project examples of previously completed B2B market analyses can be found in the Focus Industries .

Since our company was founded in 2007, we have developed a structured approach for B2B market research for these focus sectors, which enables a holistic and reliable evaluation of markets and companies:

Kick-off

Comprehensive coordination with the client at the start of the project in personal meetings or by telephone – Using numerous checklists and extensive experience from more than 300 completed projects, we create the conditions for the successful start of B2B market research.

Structured secondary research

We have access to all major sources of industry market research, such as international company databases, trade press databases, patent databases, and market research portals. Thanks to our many years of experience in B2B market analysis, we can reliably assess the reliability and credibility of individual sources.

Expert interviews

Through open interviews with market participants, customer decision-makers, and other market experts, we gather information that is unavailable through secondary sources in B2B market research. These interviews enable a realistic assessment of opportunities and risks in new markets for B2B market analysis, especially in innovative and complex markets.

Expert interviews are a fundamental tool for achieving market research goals in a B2B environment. However, market research methods should also be diverse for B2B companies, and the B2B approach should therefore incorporate multiple methods (especially secondary research).

Analysis and implications

We compile information from secondary research and expert interviews and analyze the implications for our clients. We discuss the results with you in face-to-face meetings or conference calls, deriving recommendations for action and strategic development paths for successful market development.

EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE IN B2B MARKET RESEARCH

MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH offers customized analyses for automotive, mechanical and plant engineering, electronics, energy, and other technology-driven industries.

Our customers are medium-sized and larger manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers who are planning systematic growth , want to reduce their company's dependence on a few strong customers in a particular industry, or want to benefit from the opportunities in future markets .

We also routinely support demanding M&A boutiques, investors and internationally active trade fair companies with complex market research.

PROFESSIONAL B2B MARKET RESEARCH OF UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY – EXTENSIVE REFERENCES

Managing directors, sales managers, and strategy and business development managers at more than 100 client companies rely on our meticulous B2B market research for one key reason: the uncompromising quality and reliability of our market analysis results.  Our discerning clients also value the personal and open collaboration with our team, as demonstrated by their numerous testimonials – please see for yourself.

Further references

INDIVIDUAL CONSULTING FOR YOUR COMPANY ANALYSIS

Trustful personal cooperation and the high quality and reliability of our analyses are top priorities at MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH.

We would be happy to provide you with an in-depth, non-binding consultation prior to a potential collaboration , including a personal on-site consultation upon request. We look forward to receiving your inquiry and will be happy to prepare a customized quote for you!

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