Kesko Corporation&nbsp;Business Reports

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

Shoe Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US shoe store industry includes about 28,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $27 billion. Major companies include Payless ShoeSource, Brown Shoe Company (which owns Famous Footwear and Naturalizer), Foot Locker, and DSW. Shoe manufacturers, such as Nike, also have retail operations. The industry is concentrated: the top 50 companies have about 75 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5661

NAICS: 448210

Sample Questions & Answers

What is the company’s biggest competitive threat?

Shoe stores compete with a wide range of retailers, including department stores, mass merchandisers, shoe manufacturers, and Internet retailers. Department stores and mass merchandisers can use the apparel business to drive shoe sales and offer...

How have retail pricing trends affected the company’s profitability?

Shoe stores face a major challenge in growing profitability due to limited flexibility in retail pricing. In the last 10 years, retail prices for footwear have stayed fairly stable. In general, flat retail pricing requires shoe stores to rely on...

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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.

Shoe Stores Industry Report

Consumer Electronics & Appliances Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US consumer electronics store industry includes about 27,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $60 billion. Major companies include Best Buy, RadioShack, and the retail operations of Apple. The industry is highly concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for 80 percent of sales.

SIC: 5722, 5946, 5734, 5731

NAICS: 443112, 443111, 443130, 443120

Sample Questions & Answers

How have declining retail prices affected the company?

Retail prices for many major segments of consumer electronics products have been declining. Between 2008 and 2009, retail prices declined about 24 percent for TVs and about 13 percent for computers and peripherals. While electronics retailers have...

How does the company deal with increasing competition from alternative channels?

Consumer electronics stores face heavy competition from numerous other channels, including warehouse clubs, mass merchandisers, department stores, and Internet and mail order retailers. Internet and mail order retailers sell over $30 billion 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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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 Electronics & Appliances 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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

Building Material Dealers Industry Report

Overview

The US concrete and masonry contracting industry includes about 50,000 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $55 billion. Major companies include Baker Concrete Construction, Ceco Concrete Construction, Stewart Builders, and United Forming.

SIC: 1771, 1791, 1741

NAICS: 238110, 238120, 238140

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company manage demand for services when the construction industry is highly cyclical?

Demand for concrete and masonry contracting services depends on construction activity, which can vary significantly from region to region and from year to year. Many contractors rely on both residential and nonresidential projects; others specialize.

How is the company challenged by expanding its geographic coverage?

With few exceptions, concrete and masonry contractors lack a national presence. Most businesses are local and market themselves to local general contractors. While referrals and word-of-mouth are beneficial in local markets, dependence upon personal...

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

Automobile Dealers Industry Report

Overview

The US automobile dealer industry includes about 45,000 new and used vehicle dealers with combined annual revenue of about $625 billion. Major companies include AutoNation, CarMax, Penske Automotive Group, and Sonic Automotive. The industry is highly fragmented: the top 50 companies generate less than 15 percent of revenue.

SIC: 5511, 5521

NAICS: 441110, 441120

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company perform during adverse economic conditions or periods of weak consumer demand?

Consumer demand for cars can vary significantly from year to year, due to a variety of factors, including changing economic conditions, consumer spending, inflation, and fuel prices. Sales for particular brands or styles are especially vulnerable to...

How do fluctuating interest rates affect the company's business?

Significant increases in interest rates can reduce consumer ability to buy cars and increase floor plan financing costs. Most customers buy vehicles with loans or leases. Dealer inventories are typically financed through variable interest rate loans.

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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.

Automobile Dealers 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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

Wholesale Sector Industry Report

Overview

The US music production and distribution industry includes about 3,700 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $15 billion. Major companies include Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Music Group. The industry is highly concentrated: the top eight companies account for 80 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 2731, 7389

NAICS: 512240, 512230, 512220, 512290, 512210

Sample Questions & Answers

How have the studio’s sales been affected by piracy?

Sales of music via legitimate CDs and downloads have been declining for years because of the pervasiveness of illegal copying. In part because the industry was been slow to move into digital music distribution, many consumers found it easier to...

How does the studio get its products in front of the public?

The shift by many consumers from specialty music stores to high-volume discount chains makes gaining shelf space harder for small labels. The demise of music retailers such as Tower Records and Musicland has decreased the number of outlets offering...

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

Farm & Garden Equipment Wholesalers Industry Report

Overview

The US farm and garden equipment wholesalers industry includes about 6,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $55 billion. No major companies dominate. The industry is fragmented: the 50 largest companies generate about 40 percent of revenue.

SIC: 5083

NAICS: 423820

Sample Questions & Answers

How much does the company expect current crop prices to affect equipment sales?

US farm equipment sales are strongly affected by crop prices from the previous year. Prices for major crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans might rise or fall by 25 percent or more from year to year. The volume of US cropland harvested remains...

How much does the company expect profit margins to change in the next year?

Rising costs of farm equipment can put pressure on profit margins for farm equipment distributors. Producer prices paid to farm equipment manufacturers increased between 2 percent and 5 percent annually between 2007 and 2011. Factors such as raw...

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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.

Farm & Garden Equipment Wholesalers 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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

Clothing Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US clothing stores industry includes about 100,000 stores with combined annual revenue of about $150 billion. Large companies include TJX Companies (TJ Maxx, Marshalls); Gap; Limited Brands; Ross; and Abercrombie & Fitch. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 65 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5611, 5621, 5661, 5641, 5651, 5632

NAICS: 448110, 448120, 448130, 448210, 448150, 448190, 448140

Sample Questions & Answers

How does the company protect itself from drops in consumer spending?

Consumers buy more clothing when they have more disposable income and the economy is healthy. Under recessionary conditions, clothing stores sales can slow significantly. Economic factors that drive consumer spending, including personal income,...

How does the company address competition from mass merchants, such as Target and Wal-Mart?

The rapid expansion of mass merchants like Wal-Mart and Target has pressured clothing retailers at the lower and middle segments of the market. By selling stylish clothes and accessories at low prices, mass merchants attract consumers looking 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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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.

Clothing Stores Industry Report

Department Stores Industry Report

Overview

The US department store industry includes about 20 companies that operate about 3,500 stores with a combined annual revenue of about $60 billion. Major companies include Sears, JCPenney, Macy's (which owns Bloomingdale's), and Dillard's. The industry is highly concentrated: the top eight companies generate about 95 percent of industry revenue.

SIC: 5311

NAICS: 452111

Sample Questions & Answers

What is the company's biggest competitive threat?

Companies face intense competition from a wide variety of retailers, including discount department stores, warehouse clubs, and specialty stores. Discount department stores, such as Target, have upgraded apparel selection and offer quality...

How do changes in consumer spending affect the company?

Consumer spending drives department store sales. Many products sold in department stores, particularly apparel and cosmetics, are considered discretionary. During tough economic periods, consumers may cut back or shop at less expensive retailers,...

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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.

Department Stores Industry Report

Grocery Stores & Supermarkets Industry Report

Overview

The US retail grocery industry includes about 65,000 supermarkets and other grocery stores with combined annual revenue of about $470 billion. Major companies include Kroger, Safeway, and SUPERVALU as well as Ahold, the US division of Netherlands-based Royal Ahold. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies generate about 70 percent of revenue.

SIC: 5411, 5421, 5431, 5441, 5451, 5461

NAICS: 445110, 445210, 445220, 445230, 445291, 445292, 445299

Sample Questions & Answers

How has the company's competitive environment changed over time?

As alternative retailers realized the traffic-driving power of food sales, the competitive set for grocery stores expanded and the battle over food dollars became more intense. By buying in enormous volume, mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs have...

What are the company's biggest challenges in maintaining margins?

Grocery stores operate with extremely low margins and depend on volume to generate profits. Gross margins are 25 percent of sales, lower than the 40 to 50 percent margin for most retailers. Profit margins can be razor-thin: in some cases, grocery...

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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.

Grocery Stores & Supermarkets 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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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

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 & Opportunies
Identify avenues for expansion and get prospects thinking about growth opportunities that justify investing in your product.
Call Preparation Questions
Gain instant rappart with prospects during youir sales calls using done-for-you call prearation questions.
Industry Forecast
Identify growth and integrate projections in your own business planing.

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