ITOCHU Corporation&nbsp;Business Reports

Industrial Chemical Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US industrial chemical manufacturing industry includes about 1,400 companies with combined annual revenue of about $200 billion. Large companies include divisions of Dow, DuPont, and Occidental. The US industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies generate about 70 percent of revenue. Specific market segments are often dominated by just a handful of competitors. As few as eight companies account for almost all revenues in the petrochemical and carbon black sectors, for example.

SIC: 2813, 2812, 2869, 2865, 2861, 2819, 2816

NAICS: 325132, 325199, 325193, 325181, 325182, 325110, 325120, 325131, 325192, 325191, 325188

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company mitigate cyclical demand?

Demand for industrial chemicals is subject to the cyclicality of heavy end-use markets, and therefore volatile. The automotive and construction industries, for example, can experience significant production declines during economic downturns.

How does the company protect itself from fluctuating energy costs?

Extracting and processing basic chemicals from raw materials typically requires large amounts of energy, usually in the form of heat. Many chemicals also use natural gas or petroleum as a raw material. Since energy costs can account for as much as...

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.

Industrial Chemical Manufacturing Industry Report

Chemical Wholesalers Industry Report

Overview

The US chemicals distribution industry includes about 13,000 establishments (single-location companies and branches of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $170 billion. Major companies include Brenntag North America, Nexeo Solutions (formerly Ashland Distribution), and Univar USA. The industry is concentrated: the largest 50 companies generate more than half of revenue.

SIC: 5162, 5169

NAICS: 424690, 424610

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company plan for changes in demand?

End-user demand for industrial chemicals can vary sharply from year to year, depending mainly on manufacturing activity. Production of basic chemicals can fall significantly during a recession and take several years to recover. Production of plastic...

How have changes in energy costs affected the company?

Energy costs can affect chemical distributors by impacting both product and distribution costs. Many basic chemicals, such as plastic resins, are derived from crude oil or natural gas, and distributors are large consumers of diesel fuel for truck...

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.

Chemical Wholesalers 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

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

Aerospace Products & Parts Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US aerospace products and parts manufacturing industry includes about 1,300 companies with combined annual revenue of about $175 billion. Major companies include Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and General Dynamics. The US industry is highly concentrated: the 20 largest companies account for about 90 percent of industry revenue. Many companies work primarily as subcontractors to the five largest manufacturers.

SIC: 3721, 3724, 3728, 3761, 3764, 3769

NAICS: 336411, 336412, 336413, 336414, 336415, 336419

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company manage the cyclical nature of government spending?

Dependent in large part on federal government spending, the aerospace industry is cyclical by nature and unpredictable, due to uncertainty of the annual government budgeting process, election cycles, and the ebb and flow of spending levels. Annual...

How are commercial air travel trends affecting the company?

Commercial aircraft and parts production, which is significantly larger than military aircraft production, depends highly on worldwide air travel. Air travel, in turn, depends greatly on consumer and corporate spending. Reductions in air travel...

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.

Aerospace Products & Parts Manufacturing Industry Report

Biofuel Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The biofuel manufacturing industry in the US includes about 300 companies with combined annual revenue of about $19 billion. Major biofuels producers include Archer Daniels Midland, Cargill, Chevron, Green Plains Renewable Energy, Valero, and Abengoa Bioenergy, which is based in the US but owned by Spanish engineering firm Abengoa.

SIC: 2869

NAICS: 325193

Sample Questions & Answers

How have fluctuating retail gas prices the past six months affected the company?

Extended periods of high oil prices encourage the development of alternative fuels through increased R&D investment and capital outlays to build new production facilities. Despite a drop in oil prices during the recession of the late 2000s, experts...

How dependent on government support is the company?

The biofuel industry depends on government support to establish itself and grow. Government regulations mandate the use of specific amounts of biofuels as blends of fuel, and the EPA will impose quotas on refiners and importers for biofuel use. In...

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.

Biofuel Manufacturing Industry Report

Lumber & Plywood Product Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US lumber and plywood manufacturing industry (sawmills and plywood mills) includes about 5,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $30 billion. Large companies include divisions of Weyerhaeuser, Louisiana-Pacific, Georgia-Pacific, and Universal Forest Products. The plywood, veneer, and engineered wood product segment of the industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies generate about 60 percent of revenue. The sawmill segment is fragmented: the 50 largest companies generate about 40 percent of revenue.

SIC: 2421, 2435, 2436, 2439, 2491, 2493

NAICS: 321219, 321114, 321211, 321213, 321212, 321113, 321214

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company protect against cost and price movements?

Lumber supply and prices can be volatile, affected by demand, domestic supply, Canadian imports, weather, and environmental regulations. The fragmented nature of the industry makes predicting supply, which fluctuates monthly, difficult. Lumber prices...

How does the company adjust to periods of lower demand?

Demand for lumber is strongly affected by the residential construction industry, and demand for new residential buildings can change rapidly, depending on the economy and interest rates. Residential construction accounts for about 45 percent of all...

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.

Lumber & Plywood Product Manufacturing Industry Report

Sugar Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US sugar manufacturing industry consists of about 40 companies with combined annual revenue of about $8 billion. Major companies include American Crystal Sugar, Imperial Sugar, Amalgamated Sugar, and Fanjul Corp, owner of Florida Crystals and C&H. The industry is highly concentrated: the eight largest companies account for more than 75 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 2062, 2063, 2061

NAICS: 311313, 311312, 311311

Sample Questions & Answers

How critical is government price support to the company's operations?

The sugar manufacturing industry depends on price supports from the federal government, which keeps the US sugar price about twice as high as the world price. Without price supports, many US producers couldn't continue in business.

How has the company's business been affected by increasing use of corn syrup in food manufacture?

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is cheaper than sugar, has replaced sugar in numerous processed foods, notably sodas. While corn sweeteners have experienced market growth, demand for refined sugar has been relatively flat. Sugar refiners also...

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.

Sugar Manufacturing Industry Report

Food Wholesalers Industry Report

Overview

The US wholesale food distribution industry includes about 33,000 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $650 billion. Major companies include McLane Company, SUPERVALU, Sysco, and US Foodservice. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies generate about 50 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5145, 5146, 5147, 5148, 5149, 5141, 5142, 5143, 5144

NAICS: 424410, 424420, 424430, 424440, 424450, 424460, 424490, 424470, 424480

Sample Questions & Answers

How is the company countering increased competition?

Large grocery chains, big-box retailers, and wholesale clubs can bypass distributors and deal directly with manufacturers. Wal-Mart and Costco receive more than 50 percent of revenue from selling food. Large grocery retailers such as SUPERVALU and...

How does the company position itself as a better option than manufacturer direct-store-delivery (DSD) programs?

Manufacturers often manage their own sales and stocking efforts through direct-store-delivery (DSD) programs. Increased food costs and a slowdown in supplier revenue have led to careful oversight of manufacturing expenditures. Some suppliers say that...

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.

Food Wholesalers Industry Report

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

Textile Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US textile manufacturing industry includes about 9,000 companies with combined annual sales of about $60 billion. Major US companies include Guilford Mills, International Textile Group, National Spinning, Parkdale Mills, and Unifi. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies generate about 60 percent of revenue.

SIC: 2259, 2258, 2257, 2241, 2211, 2261, 2397, 2394, 2392, 2391, 2299, 2298, 2297, 2273, 2281, 2282, 2284, 2295, 2296

NAICS: 313111, 314999, 314992, 314991, 314912, 314911, 314129, 314121, 314110, 313320, 313312, 313311, 313249, 313241, 313230, 313222, 313221, 313210, 313112, 313113

Sample Questions & Answers

From which segments of its customer base does the company expect greater demand in the coming year?

US textile production has steadily decreased as demand from US apparel makers has dropped. Textile production decreased more than 20 percent between 2007 and 2009, as US apparel manufacturing dropped almost 30 percent during the same period.

How has the company adapted to competition from imports?

From 2003 to 2009, imports of textile mill products increased nearly 35 percent. Textile mill imports from China increased almost 100 percent during the period.

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.

Textile Manufacturing Industry Report

Machinery Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US machinery manufacturing industry includes more than 20,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $315 billion. Major companies include Applied Materials, Baker Hughes, Carrier, Caterpillar, Deere, Kennametal, and divisions of General Electric. The industry, which is fragmented overall, is made up of numerous segments that are concentrated.

SIC: 3569, 3578, 3581, 3582, 3586, 3589, 3593, 3594, 3596, 3827, 3861, 3568, 3567, 3566, 3563, 3564, 3565, 3561, 3559, 3556, 3555, 3554, 3553, 3552, 3433, 3443, 3511, 3519, 3523, 3524, 3531, 3532, 3533, 3535, 3537, 3541, 3542, 3544, 3545, 3546, 3547, 3548, 3549

NAICS: 333298, 333311, 333312, 333313, 333314, 333315, 333319, 333411, 333412, 333414, 333415, 333511, 333512, 333513, 333514, 333515, 333516, 333518, 333611, 333612, 333613, 333618, 333911, 333912, 333913, 333921, 333922, 333923, 333924, 333991, 333992, 333993, 333994, 333995, 333996, 333997, 333999, 333295, 333294, 333293, 333220, 333291, 333292, 333210, 333132, 333131, 333120, 333112, 333111

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company respond to shifting demand?

Demand for machinery can drop rapidly during periods of slow or declining economic growth. Limited availability of credit tends to hinder machinery sales. Because of the large international trade in machinery, US producers are also affected by...

How successful is the company at differentiating its products from foreign competition?

Machinery imports account for about 40 percent of the US market. China, Japan, Germany, Canada, and Mexico are major sources of imports. Imports of machinery components such as pumps and compressors from China have grown significantly.

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.

Machinery Manufacturing Industry Report

Wood Flooring Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US wood flooring manufacturing industry includes about 100 companies with combined annual revenue of about $2 billion. Major companies include Armstrong World Industries (AWI), Mohawk Industries, Shaw Industries, and Wood Flooring International (WFI).

SIC: 2421

NAICS: 321918

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company manage fluctuations in raw material prices?

Prices for hardwood lumber and finished wood flooring, a minimally processed product, don't move in tandem. Manufacturers often can't pass lumber price increases to consumers because alternative flooring is readily available. Hardwood lumber prices...

How does the company protect itself from changes in construction demand for wood products?

Since most wood flooring is installed in residential buildings, demand depends almost entirely on the volume of new home construction and renovation. As much as half of all hardwood flooring is used in new residential construction, according to trade...

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.

Wood Flooring Manufacturing Industry Report

Wood Window & Door Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US wood window and door manufacturing industry includes about 1,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $8 billion. Major companies include Andersen Corporation, JELD-WEN, and Pella. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies control about 70 percent of the market.

SIC: 2431

NAICS: 321911

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company manage changes in raw material prices?

Prices for hardwood and softwood can shift suddenly. Increased raw material prices can't always be passed on to customers due to competition from vinyl windows and steel doors. Hardwood prices can swing more than 5 percent in a single year; softwoods...

How does the company mitigate risk during cyclical economic slowdowns?

Most wood windows and doors are used for new residential construction or remodeling, both of which are cyclical and strongly linked to the overall health of the US economy. Housing starts and homeowner spending on improvements tend to fall during...

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.

Wood Window & Door Manufacturing Industry Report

Chemical Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US chemicals industry includes about 10,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $700 billion. Major companies include Dow, DuPont, Eastman Chemical, ExxonMobil Chemical, and Huntsman. The US industry is concentrated: the 50 largest firms generate more than half of industry revenue.

SIC: 2823, 2824, 2833, 2834, 2835, 2836, 2841, 2842, 2843, 2844, 2851, 2861, 2865, 2869, 2873, 2874, 2875, 2879, 2891, 2892, 2893, 3087, 3861, 2822, 2821, 2819, 2812, 2813, 2816

NAICS: 325998, 325992, 325920, 325991, 325910, 325620, 325613, 325612, 325611, 325520, 325510, 325414, 325413, 325412, 325411, 325320, 325314, 325312, 325311, 325222, 325221, 325110, 325120, 325131, 325132, 325181, 325182, 325188, 325191, 325192, 325193, 325199, 325211, 325212

Sample Questions & Answers

How has the company been affected by recent changes in energy and raw material costs?

Because of the high energy requirements in chemical production, higher energy prices can greatly affect costs. Many manufacturers use natural gas as a source of heat, or natural gas or crude oil as feedstocks. Feedstocks and energy can account for...

How does the company track compliance with federal regulations?

Despite large investments to prevent air, water, and ground pollution, chemical companies have ongoing exposure to environmental and health issues, because regulations continue to tighten and past practices continue to result in large cleanup costs...

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.

Chemical Manufacturing Industry Report

Telecommunications Equipment Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US telecommunications equipment manufacturing industry includes about 1,500 companies with combined annual revenue of about $45 billion. Major companies include Apple, Cisco Systems, Motorola Solutions, and QUALCOMM. The industry is highly concentrated: the 50 largest companies generate about 80 percent of revenue.

SIC: 3663, 3661

NAICS: 334210, 334220

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company adjust to changes in demand?

Although manufacturers sell mainly to telecom service providers, demand for services depends on the economic situation of businesses and consumers. Small changes in demand largely affect manufacturers: in the mid-2000s, the industry grew by nearly 20...

To what extent does the company expect that continuing deregulation will increase technological innovation?

Demand for new telecom equipment depends partly on the types of services various providers can offer per federal regulations. The FCC and state regulators greatly affect the structure and operations of the telecom services industry. Because of rapid...

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.

Telecommunications Equipment Manufacturing Industry Report

Wholesale Sector Industry Report

Overview

The wholesale distribution industry in the US includes about 300,000 companies with combined annual sales of about $5 trillion. Large distributors include SYSCO (foods); McKesson (drugs); and Avnet (electronics). Distributors specialize by product. The industry is highly fragmented: the 50 largest distributors generate about 25 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5012, 5013, 5014, 5015, 5021, 5023, 5031, 5032, 5033, 5039, 5043, 5044, 5045, 5046, 5047, 5048, 5049, 5051, 5052, 5063, 5064, 5065, 5072, 5074, 5075, 5078, 5082, 5083, 5084, 5192, 5193, 5194, 5198, 5085, 5087, 5088, 5091, 5092, 5093, 5094, 5099, 5111, 5112, 5113, 5122, 5131, 5136, 5137, 5139, 5141, 5142, 5143, 5144, 5145, 5146, 5147, 5148, 5149, 5153, 5154, 5159, 5162, 5169, 5171, 5172, 5181, 5182, 5191

NAICS: 424480, 424490, 424510, 424520, 424590, 424610, 424690, 424710, 424720, 424810, 424820, 424910, 424920, 424930, 424940, 424950, 424990, 425110, 423310, 423320, 423330, 423390, 423410, 423420, 423430, 423440, 423450, 423460, 423490, 423510, 423520, 423610, 423620, 423690, 423710, 423720, 423730, 423740, 423810, 423820, 423830, 423840, 423850, 423860, 423910, 425120, 423110, 423120, 423130, 423140, 423210, 423220, 423920, 423930, 423940, 423990, 424110, 424120, 424130, 424210, 424310, 424320, 424330, 424340, 424410, 424420, 424430, 424440, 424450, 424460, 424470

Sample Questions & Answers

How do changes in interest rates affect the company's profits?

Because many distributors finance their inventories, they're sensitive to interest rates. On average, distributors hold inventory equal to 35 days sales, but machinery distributors may hold products for more than 50 days. Food and petroleum product...

How much business has the company lost due to retailers buying directly from manufacturers?

Big retailers like Wal-Mart, Home Depot, and Costco buy much of their merchandise directly from manufacturers, bypassing distributors. Because they buy in large quantity and operate their own warehouse systems, these retailers don't need distributors.

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.

Wholesale Sector Industry Report

Search, Detection, Navigation & Guidance System Manufacturing Industry Report

Overview

The US search, detection, and navigation equipment manufacturing industry includes about 500 companies with combined annual revenue of about $50 billion. Major companies include FLIR Systems and the US operations of Japan's Furuno and the US operations of Switzerland's Garmin. Divisions of large integrated companies such as Boeing, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon also manufacture search, detection, and navigation equipment, primarily for national security and defense applications. The industry is highly concentrated: the largest eight companies account for about 75 percent of revenue; the largest 50 account for about 95 percent.

SIC: 3663, 3812

NAICS: 334511, 334220

Sample Questions & Answers

How dependent is the company on government contracts?

The Departments of Defense and Homeland Security use navigation, search, and detection systems extensively. Government purchases account for a large percentage of industry revenues. Major changes in agency budgets can significantly impact the...

How is the company driving product innovation?

Search, detection, and navigation equipment companies compete in both commercial and government markets based on product innovation. Some companies spend as much as 10 percent of revenue on new technology developments. The rapidity of innovation...

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.

Search, Detection, Navigation & Guidance System Manufacturing Industry Report