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). For example, industrial market research often requires a different methodological approach than analyses in consumer markets. Different data sources need to be evaluated, and the scope of available secondary information is limited, particularly in highly technical or innovative industries. Against this backdrop, expert interviews with market participants and customers, for instance, play a crucial role in assessing market opportunities and risks in industrial market research.

MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH, a market research company based in Munich, specializes in B2B market research and market & competitive analysis . Since the company's founding in 2007, our team has focused on analyzing market trends in the automotive, mechanical engineering, electronics, medical technology, and energy sectors. We have successfully completed more than 300 industrial projects for our clients since then.

CURRENT PROJECT EXAMPLES FROM OUR B2B MARKET RESEARCH

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

The development of charging infrastructure represents one of the biggest challenges in implementing electromobility. The market for charging technology includes providers of wallboxes, 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 analyzed the market for charging cables in Germany, Europe, and worldwide, as well as the leading providers of charging systems. Our client used our B2B market research on e-mobility cables and charging systems to make informed decisions regarding the strategic development of this business unit.

What market opportunities does the future of autonomous, connected vehicles offer automotive suppliers outside the electronics and software sectors? How will self-driving vehicles affect the overall market and the 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 of chassis components commissioned us to analyze these strategic questions as part of a customized B2B market research project.

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

For an innovative new development by a machine manufacturer in the field of waterjet cutting, we conducted B2B market research, examining market potential, the competitive landscape, and customer requirements in Europe. More than 30 in-depth interviews with numerous potential users in the contract manufacturing and supplier industries provided a clear picture of the sector and its potential. Our analysis results formed the 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 rapidly growing segment for electric motor test benches, which must be designed for exceptionally high speeds and are currently in high demand. We conducted structured B2B market research for our client, covering market size, growth forecasts, the most important test bench manufacturers in Europe, and the competitive landscape. Extensive interviews with decision-makers at leading test bench manufacturers provided our client with a deep understanding of industry requirements. Our analysis results formed the basis for our client's strategic direction in this attractive market segment.

Single-use inhalers are gaining increasing importance in the global market as an innovative delivery method for medications. Nearly one billion inhalers are produced worldwide each year. For our client, a supplier of specialized inhaler components, we conducted a systematic international market research study on market potential and leading inhaler manufacturers in Europe.

The increasing possibilities offered by improved analytical and testing methods in the laboratory, along with new rapid tests for use in doctors' offices or directly by patients, are driving a growing demand for point-of-care (POC) testing systems. To capitalize on the opportunities of this innovative market segment, a supplier planning to enter the market commissioned us to conduct Europe-wide B2B market research in this area. Through the evaluation of extensive secondary sources, we developed a current overview of the market situation for POC tests, the most important competitors in the industry, and the 50 most important target customers in the pharmaceutical sector.

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

FOCUS SECTORS OF OUR INDUSTRIAL MARKET RESEARCH

Our company analyzes the opportunities in tomorrow's markets : Autonomous, connected vehicles, intelligent production facilities, renewable energy technologies, smart homes, and connected medical devices are just some 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 the field of 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 and institutional customers (B2B companies). Important B2B industries include automotive suppliers, mechanical engineering companies, electrical engineering suppliers, and energy technology companies. IT and software companies also frequently supply industrial customers and therefore usually fall into the B2B sector. B2B industries supply corporate customers along the industrial value chain . B2B market research is thus distinct from B2C market research (business-to-consumer).

B2B markets are often technologically driven, so B2B market researchers need technical background knowledge and market understanding . Many B2B market analyses also focus on specific niche markets for which less data is available compared to consumer goods markets. Therefore, B2B market research requires methodological and source expertise and access to industry-relevant specialized sources . Due to the high degree of internationalization in B2B markets, market researchers should also be able to obtain market and company information across borders

The most important questions addressed in B2B market research are (1) market size and potential, (2) future market growth, (3) competitive landscape and strategic analysis of key competitors, (4) customer structure and requirements, and (5) industry trends and developments. However, no two B2B market research projects at MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH are alike: because each B2B market analysis is individually tailored to the client's requirements, specific areas of focus can be set to align the market study with the client's specific information needs.

To obtain B2B market information, we utilize, for example, specialized international company databases, industrial trade press databases, and international annual report databases. Crucially, our experience from over 300 completed B2B market research projects allows us to reliably assess dependability of relevant industry sources . We also frequently conduct telephone interviews with market experts and decision-makers in the industry under investigation to obtain a neutral and up-to-date picture of the market.

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

We identify suitable interview partners along the value chain , such as potential B2B customers, market partners, suppliers, institutes, research institutions, or government agencies. Our network of hundreds of completed B2B market research projects helps us quickly connect with the right people to collect the necessary data. open and collaborative approach ensures the interviewees' willingness to cooperate. Each interview yields valuable information that allows for a better assessment of opportunities, risks, and development potential in the target market.  Online surveys, often used for B2C companies, rarely yield the desired results for companies in the industrial sector. The aforementioned open and collaborative approach, combined with specific industry-related knowledge—for example, regarding business relationships, target groups, or the company's positioning in the B2B market—are key success factors for obtaining the desired information.

B2B market research requires a methodology tailored to its specific circumstances. In-depth knowledge of industry sources is crucial for success, and the market research agency should be able to demonstrate relevant industry references. Access to market experts is essential not only for a precise understanding of target groups, customers, competitors, and potential opportunities, but also for defining your niche and key terms/products. Therefore, for conducting industrial market research, it is advisable to collaborate with a specialized consulting firm that possesses 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 launch a new product. Our clients also frequently use the results of our industrial market research for the strategic direction of a business unit or for competitive analysis .

To support sales, we regularly conduct B2B customer and target group analyses and interview 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 company acquisitions and takeovers.

FOCUS: INDUSTRIAL MARKET RESEARCH FOR 5 KEY INDUSTRIES

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

For these focus industries, we have developed a structured approach to B2B market research since the company was founded in 2007, 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 telephone consultations – using numerous checklists and extensive experience from more than 300 completed projects, we create the conditions for the successful start of the B2B market research.

Structured secondary research

We have access to all essential sources of industrial market research, such as international company databases, trade press databases, patent databases, and market study portals. Based on 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, decision-makers at customer companies, and other market experts, we gather information that is not available through secondary sources in B2B market research. These interviews enable us to realistically assess opportunities and risks in new markets, particularly in innovative and complex markets, for a B2B market analysis.

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

Analysis and implications

We compile the information from secondary research and expert interviews and analyze the implications for our client. We discuss the results with you in personal meetings or conference calls and derive recommendations for action and strategic development paths for successful market penetration.

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 an 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 over 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 evidenced by numerous testimonials – please see for yourself.

Further references

Individual consultation for your company analysis

At MEYER INDUSTRY RESEARCH, a trusting personal partnership and the high quality and reliability of our analyses are our top priorities.
We would be happy to advise you in detail and without obligation before any potential collaboration on a market study , including, if desired, a personal meeting at your location. We look forward to your inquiry and will gladly prepare a customized offer for you!

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