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Home Centers & Hardware Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US home center and hardware store, or home improvement retail, industry includes about 23,000 hardware stores and home centers with combined annual revenue of about $150 billion. Major home center companies include The Home Depot and Lowe's Companies; major hardware store companies include True Value Company and Ace Hardware. The home center segment of the industry is highly concentrated: the top four companies account for more than 90 percent of segment revenue. The hardware store segment of the industry is fragmented: the top 50 companies account for about 30 percent of segment revenue. Home centers offer more building supplies (such as lumber and flooring) and appliances than hardware stores. Home centers account for about 85 percent of industry revenue; hardware stores for about 15 percent. Hardware stores account for about 70 percent of retail locations for the industry, compared to about 30 percent for home centers.

SIC: 5211, 5251

NAICS: 444110, 444130

Sample Questions & Answers

How have long-term pricing trends in the home improvement market affected the company?

Declining and flat retail prices in key categories for home improvement retailers can affect profitability. Retail prices for tools and hardware were basically flat between 1999 and 2009; prices for outdoor equipment and supplies were down almost 10...

How do residential housing trends affect the company's sales?

Home sales, improvement and repair projects, and new residential construction drive sales for home improvement stores. The residential real estate market can be cyclical and influenced by economic conditions. Decreases in home turnover and slower...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Home Centers & Hardware Stores Industry Report

Furniture Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US furniture retailing industry includes about 20,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $50 billion. Major companies include Ashley Furniture Industries, Bassett Furniture, Haverty Furniture, La-Z-Boy, and Rooms To Go. The industry is fragmented: the 50 largest companies generate about 35 percent of revenue.

SIC: 5712

NAICS: 442110

Sample Questions & Answers

What are the company's strategies for operating during industry or economic downturns?

Furniture buying is strongly influenced by home sales, consumer income, new home construction, and employment. During weak economic cycles, the furniture industry is particularly sensitive because of the large price tag associated with purchases that...

How is competition from manufacturers impacting the company?

Some large manufacturers bypass retailers and sell directly to customers through dedicated retail outlets. Furniture Brands International distributes its products partly through independently owned, branded stores; Ethan Allen operates retail stores.

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Furniture Stores Industry Report

Music Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US music store industry includes about 4,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $3 billion. Major companies include Trans World Entertainment Corporation (operator of FYE and other branded stores), Hastings Entertainment, and CD Warehouse. The industry is concentrated: the top 50 companies account for more than 70 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5735

NAICS: 451220

Sample Questions & Answers

Who are the company’s most significant retail competitors?

Music stores face intense competition from consumer electronics stores, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, and Internet retailers. Music stores capture less than one-third of all US music purchases, according to the Recording Industry Association...

How has digital downloading affected the company?

Digital music downloading, both legal and illegal, has negatively affected US CD sales. Sales of physical CDs declined nearly 20 percent in the first half of 2010 compared to the same time a year earlier, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Meanwhile,...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Music Stores Industry Report

Paint & Wallpaper Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US paint and wallpaper store industry includes about 3,000 companies that operate about 8,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $10 billion. Major companies include the retail divisions of paint manufacturers Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Kelly-Moore. The industry is concentrated: the top 50 companies account for more than 75 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5231

NAICS: 444120

Sample Questions & Answers

How do the construction and housing markets affect company sales?

Trends in construction, remodeling, and home sales significantly affect demand for architectural paint and wallpaper. The construction and housing industries can be cyclical and affected by the economy. During difficult economic periods, residential...

What is the company's main competitive threat?

To attract more customers, home centers and hardware stores are expanding paint departments and providing additional services. By offering more designer brands, wider color sample selections, and in-store design centers, home centers appeal to female...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Paint & Wallpaper Stores Industry Report

Consumer Lending Industry Report

Overview

The US consumer finance industry consists of about 3,500 companies with combined annual revenue of about $35 billion. Major companies include Ace Cash Express, Advance America, Check 'n Go, Check Into Cash, and DFC Global (formerly Dollar Financial). The industry is highly concentrated: the top 50 companies account for about 90 percent of revenue.

SIC: 6141

NAICS: 522291

Sample Questions & Answers

How will the 2010 federal financial reform law covering consumer finance companies affect the firm?

The financial reform law passed in 2010 expands federal regulation of the consumer finance industry and includes restrictions on interest rate hikes and fees credit card companies can impose, puts limits on payday loans, and discourages auto title...

How does the company protect itself from losses during economic downturns?

Consumer finance companies are more vulnerable to financial losses during economic slowdowns, when delinquencies, bankruptcies, and foreclosures are disproportionately higher for subprime borrowers. During the recession of the late 2000s, job losses...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Consumer Lending Industry Report

Computer & Software Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US computer and software store (computer store) industry includes about 10,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $16 billion. No major companies dominate the industry.

SIC: 5734

NAICS: 443120

Sample Questions & Answers

How have retail price trends affected the company's merchandising strategy?

Rapidly declining retail prices for computers, peripherals, and software can squeeze margins, even when companies account for decreasing manufacturer prices. Intense competition and consumer demand for affordability have resulted in falling price...

How has the company developed ways to compete with multiple types of alternative retailers?

Computer stores face intense competition from a variety of sources, including consumer electronic stores, Internet and catalog retailers, computer and peripheral manufacturers, office supply stores, and mass merchandisers. As the general population...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Computer & Software Stores Industry Report

Camera & Photographic Supplies Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US camera and photographic supplies retail industry includes about 800 firms with 2,000 locations and combined annual revenue of about $4 billion. Major companies include Ritz Camera & Image, Calumet Photographic, and Samy's Camera. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies hold more than 80 percent of the market.

SIC: 5946

NAICS: 443130

Sample Questions & Answers

How have online photofinishing and supply services affected the company’s business?

Online retailers and photofinishing services are capturing more market share every year. Consumers buy cameras, printers, and supplies online, upload images, and have printed copies sent directly to their doorstep without ever setting foot in a...

How does the company differentiate itself from mass retailers selling similar products?

Mass retailers have a major presence in the camera and photographic supplies industry. Electronic superstores and mass retail outlets push large volumes of goods and services through their photo sections. Their purchasing, merchandising, and...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Camera & Photographic Supplies Stores Industry Report

Sporting Goods Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US retail sporting goods industry includes about 20,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $35 billion. Large chain operators include Academy, Cabela's, Dick's Sporting Goods, Hibbett Sports, REI, and The Sports Authority. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for more than 55 percent of revenue. Only about 140 companies have more than five stores.

SIC: 5941

NAICS: 451110

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company manage changes in demand during an economic slowdown?

The revenue of sporting goods stores is sensitive to the health of the economy, as sports are leisure activities for most participants. Spending on sporting goods correlates strongly with declines or gains in consumer income. During the late 2000s...

How does the company encourage greater sports participation?

Demographics play a big part in sporting goods sales, since participation in sports tends to vary among different age groups. The number of Americans ages 5 to 19, the most athletically active segment of the population, will increase 7 percent from...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Sporting Goods Stores Industry Report

Bookstores Industry Report

Overview

The US bookstores industry includes about 10,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $16 billion. Major companies include Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million. The industry is highly concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 85 percent of sales.

SIC: 5942

NAICS: 451211

Sample Questions & Answers

How has the increased competition from online-only booksellers affected growth?

Book sales for Internet and mail order retailers are estimated at about $7 billion, cutting into sales for bookstores. Since Amazon.com's introduction, traditional bookstore sales have gone from growing faster than total retail sales to growing more...

How does the company plan to grow revenue when pricing has remained flat?

Consumer prices for trade books (fiction, nonfiction, adult, children’s) remained flat between 2000 and 2010. Publishers indirectly set maximum retail prices, so retailers must rely on increased volume or decreased discounts to sustain profitability.

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Bookstores Industry Report

Household Appliance Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US household appliance store industry includes about 9,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $16 billion. Major companies include ABC Appliance, Conn's, hhgregg, and PC Richard & Son. The industry is fragmented: the 50 largest companies account for about 35 percent of industry sales.

SIC: 5722

NAICS: 443111

Sample Questions & Answers

How are the company's sales affected by changes in home sales?

Sales of new and existing homes help drive growth for appliance retailers, as consumers are highly likely to buy new appliances when buying a home. A soft housing market can significantly depress appliance sales. US new home sales fell by more than...

How does the company compensate for declining retail prices?

Retail prices for major appliances have been driven down by imports of low-priced products, mainly from China and Mexico. Increasing import volume and strong demand for low-end products contribute to flat and decreasing prices across most major...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Household Appliance Stores Industry Report

Building Material Dealers Industry Report

Overview

The building material dealers industry in the US includes about 45,000 companies with combined annual sales of about $230 billion. Major companies include Home Depot and Lowe's. Some independently owned stores belong to wholesale cooperatives, such as Ace Hardware and True Value Company, that buy materials in bulk and resell them to members. The industry is concentrated: the top 50 companies account for more than 50 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5211, 5231, 5251

NAICS: 444110, 444120, 444130, 444190

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company mitigate volatile material costs?

Although price increases can often be passed to consumers, building material and supply dealers that maintain large inventories can be hurt if prices move sharply. Lumber prices, especially, can be volatile, affected by changing demand, domestic...

How does the company manage cyclical variation in residential construction demand?

The building material and supply industry is highly cyclical, depending on the level of new home construction, improvements, and repairs, and the volume of home sales. Homeowners and contractors are more likely to buy building materials when housing...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Building Material Dealers Industry Report

Home Furnishings Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US home furnishings store industry includes about 20,000 stores with combined annual revenues of about $25 billion. Major companies include Bed Bath & Beyond and Williams-Sonoma. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 75 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5713, 5714

NAICS: 442210, 442299

Sample Questions & Answers

How sensitive are the company’s sales to economic conditions?

Home furnishings are usually discretionary purchases that can be postponed when consumer income declines. For example, sales for home furnishings stores fell 8 percent from 2008 to 2009 and grew by just 3 percent from 2009 to 2010, as consumers...

How has the company responded to declining prices?

Consumer prices for home furnishing products have been steadily falling for nearly a decade, driven by low-cost imports and competition from national chains and mass merchandisers. Prices for window coverings fell 20 percent from 2001 to 2010; for...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Home Furnishings Stores Industry Report

Toy & Hobby Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US toy and hobby store industry includes about 9,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $20 billion. Major companies include Toys "R" Us, Michaels Stores, and AC Moore Arts & Crafts. The industry is highly concentrated: the top 50 companies generate about 85 percent of revenue.

SIC: 5945

NAICS: 451120

Sample Questions & Answers

How do changes in consumer spending affect the company's business?

Most consumers classify toys and hobby products as leisure purchases, and sales depend on personal income, consumer confidence, and economic health. During the late 2000s recession, personal consumer expenditures on recreational goods slowed...

How does the company compete with mass merchandisers?

Toy and hobby stores face strong competition from mass merchandisers like Wal-Mart and Target. In addition, toy stores must compete with consumer electronics retailers like Best Buy for sales of electronic toys and video games. By expanding craft and...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Toy & Hobby Stores Industry Report

Retail Sector Industry Report

Overview

The US retail industry includes about 1 million outlets with combined annual revenue of about $4 trillion. Major companies include Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Kroger, Costco, and Target. While large companies dominate some retail sectors (such as mass merchandisers and grocery stores), other sectors (such as auto dealers and convenience stores) are fragmented. Many specialty retailers are single-store operations.

SIC: 5983, 5984, 5989, 5992, 5993, 5994, 5995, 5999, 7389, 5211, 5231, 5251, 5261, 5271, 5311, 5331, 5399, 5411, 5421, 5431, 5441, 5451, 5461, 5499, 5511, 5521, 5531, 5541, 5551, 5561, 5571, 5599, 5611, 5621, 5632, 5641, 5651, 5661, 5712, 5713, 5714, 5722, 5731, 5734, 5735, 5736, 5912, 5921, 5932, 5941, 5942, 5943, 5944, 5945, 5946, 5947, 5948, 5961, 5962

NAICS: 445299, 445310, 446110, 446120, 446130, 446191, 446199, 447110, 447190, 448110, 448120, 448130, 448140, 448150, 448190, 448210, 448310, 454319, 454390, 448320, 451110, 451120, 451130, 451140, 451211, 451212, 451220, 452111, 452112, 452910, 452990, 453110, 453210, 453220, 453310, 453910, 453920, 453930, 453991, 453998, 454111, 454112, 454113, 454210, 454311, 454312, 441110, 441120, 441210, 441221, 441222, 441229, 441310, 441320, 442110, 442210, 442291, 442299, 443111, 443112, 443120, 443130, 444110, 444120, 444130, 444190, 444210, 444220, 445110, 445120, 445210, 445220, 445230, 445291, 445292

Sample Questions & Answers

How sensitive is the company's business to the economy?

Economic factors, including personal income, consumer confidence, job growth, and interest rates, can greatly affect consumer spending and the retail sector. During recessionary periods, retail sales growth can slow drastically and even decline.

How does the company compete with large retailers?

In many retail segments, large companies dominate and hold the majority of the market. Even specialty retailers in fragmented markets must compete with mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs that offer a smaller selection of comparable merchandise at...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Retail Sector Industry Report

Jewelry Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US jewelry retail industry includes about 20,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $30 billion. Major companies include Zale, Tiffany, and Sterling Jewelers (a unit of London-based Signet Jewelers). The industry is fragmented: the top 50 jewelry chains generate about 40 percent of revenue.

SIC: 5944

NAICS: 448310

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company manage business fluctuations brought on by changes in the economy and consumer spending?

Jewelry sales are tied to the health of the US economy, particularly changes in disposable personal income and consumer confidence. Sales of expensive jewelry, especially, depend on good economic growth. Consumers may choose less expensive items or...

How will the jeweler compete against big-box retailers like Wal-Mart?

Specialty jewelry stores continue to lose market share to mass merchants such as Wal-Mart. Specialty stores account for only about 40 percent of all jewelry sales in the US. The share sold by traditional department stores has also been declining.

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Jewelry Stores Industry Report

Internet & Mail-Order Retail Industry Report

Overview

The Internet and mail-order retail industry in the US includes about 20,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $270 billion. Major companies include Lands’ End, LL Bean, Amazon, Overstock, and Hanover Direct. The industry is concentrated: the top 50 companies account for about 70 percent of industry revenue. Over the past five years, the bulk of the industry's revenue has shifted from catalog to Internet sales. While most brick-and-mortar retailers have an online presence and many also offer catalog sales, this profile focuses on retailers who use the Internet or catalogs as their sole or primary sales channel.

SIC: 5961

NAICS: 454111, 454113

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the current economic environment affect the company's sales outlook?

Catalog and Internet retailers sell primarily discretionary goods and services, so demand varies with changes in personal income. Consumers delay or cut back on computers, new clothing, home furnishings, and other discretionary items when the economy...

How does the company compete with online sales by traditional retailers?

Traditional retailers are becoming the dominant online retailers by leveraging high consumer awareness. Consumers are moving to large brands that have online capability and that they're familiar with. Internet retailing has been growing rapidly.

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Internet & Mail-Order Retail Industry Report

Gift, Novelty & Souvenir Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US gift, novelty, and souvenir store (gift store) industry includes about 30,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $18 billion. Major companies include Hallmark, Spencer Gifts, and Disney Stores (a division of The Walt Disney Company). The industry is fragmented: the top 50 companies account for about 30 percent of sales.

SIC: 5947, 5992

NAICS: 453110, 453220

Sample Questions & Answers

What is the company’s most serious competitive threat?

Gift stores face intense competition from mass merchandisers, department stores, and Internet retailers. Wal-Mart and Target are two top destinations for gift shoppers, according to Unity Marketing. Reseller websites, such as eBay, and craft sites...

How do changes in consumer spending affect the company’s sales?

Most gifts are discretionary purchases and gift sales depend on consumer spending. While consumers may not eliminate gift purchases when the economy slows, many spend less and are less likely to buy additional items for themselves on impulse. Without...

To read this full Call Prep Question and others, purchase the full report.

General Report Description

Save valuable research time, increase confidence on sales calls, and get the competitive edge to win more business with Hoover's Industry Report. Proprietary editorial analysis synthesizes hundreds of sources into an easy-to-digest format so that you can quickly understand a client's business challenges. Insight into critical business issues, industry trends and opportunities, and financial benchmarks is an integral part of each report.

Sections Included in Report

Industry Overview
Quarterly Industry Update
Business Challenges
Trends and Opportunities
Call Preparation Questions
Financial Information
Industry Forecast
Website and Media Links
Glossary of Acronyms

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & Opportunities
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rapport with prospects during your sales calls using done-for-you call preparation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planning.

Business Challenges
Engage your prospects with solution selling that makes their life easier by first understanding their pain points.
Executive Insight
Identify the correct decision maker and tailor your presentation to his or her needs, and maximize the effectiveness of your pitch.
Financial Information
Increase your credibility and support your presentations by adding verifiable industry metrics.
Web Links & Acronyms
Speak the Prospect's language by demonstrating an understanding of industry trade associations and jargon.

Gift, Novelty & Souvenir Stores Industry Report