Overstock.com, Inc.&nbsp;Business Reports

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

Home Furnishings Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5713, 5714

NAICS: 442210, 442299

Sample Questions & Answers

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

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

How has the company responded to declining prices?

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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 Furnishings Stores Industry Report

Optometrists Industry Report

Overview

About 20,000 optometrists offices operate in the US with combined annual revenue of about $12 billion. No major companies dominate the industry, which is highly fragmented: the 50 largest companies account for less than 10 percent of revenue.

SIC: 5995, 8042

NAICS: 621320, 446130

Sample Questions & Answers

How has the PPACA changed the practice of optometry?

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) of 2010 included several provisions that benefited the optometry profession. Children’s vision care was defined as an essential health benefit to be included in school clinics. Eyeglasses and...

What have been some of the challenges and benefits of the increase of insurance coverage for eye care?

Navigating the changing insurance landscape continues to be a challenge for optometrists. Employer health care plans are beginning to include vision care, typically a yearly eye exam. Additionally, supplemental vision care plans provide some coverage,...

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.

Optometrists Industry Report

Retail Sector Industry Report

Overview

The US breakfast cereal manufacturing industry includes about 30 companies with combined annual revenue of about $11 billion. Major companies include Kellogg, General Mills, Post Foods, and Quaker (owned by PepsiCo). The industry is highly concentrated: the top four companies account for 80 percent of revenue.

SIC: 2043

NAICS: 311230

Sample Questions & Answers

How dependent is the company on the success of ready-to-eat cereal?

Cereal manufacturers depend highly on a single type of product (cold, ready-to-eat cereal) that's overwhelmingly consumed at a single time of day. Because cereal with milk can't be easily consumed on-the-go, busy families and professionals may be...

How does the company manage commodity price swings?

The price and availability of cereal grains can fluctuate sharply due to farm yield, weather patterns, and government farm subsidies. Wheat, corn, and oat prices routinely swing 10 percent or more from year-to-year. Price and supply instability isn't...

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

Camera & Photographic Supplies Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5946

NAICS: 443130

Sample Questions & Answers

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

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

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

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Camera & Photographic Supplies Stores Industry Report

Jewelry Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5944

NAICS: 448310

Sample Questions & Answers

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

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

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

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Jewelry Stores Industry Report

Bookstores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5942

NAICS: 451211

Sample Questions & Answers

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

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

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

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Bookstores Industry Report

Travel Agencies & Services Industry Report

Overview

The US travel services industry includes about 17,000 companies with combined annual revenue of about $35 billion. Major companies include Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Expedia, Sabre Holdings (which owns Travelocity), and the travel agency operations of American Express. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 60 percent of revenue.

SIC: 4724, 4725, 4729, 7389

NAICS: 561591, 561520, 561510, 561599

Sample Questions & Answers

How has the company managed fluctuations in business and leisure travel?

Air travel is closely connected to the strength of the US economy, partly because of business travel and partly because personal travel depends heavily on income. Terrorism or natural disaster fears can easily prompt tourists to cancel vacation plans.

How is the agency addressing increased online competition?

Travelers can easily pass over traditional travel agents and third party travel websites by booking directly with airlines and hotels. In order to remain competitive, large online travel agents such as Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz, have...

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.

Travel Agencies & Services 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

Computer & Software Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5734

NAICS: 443120

Sample Questions & Answers

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

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

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

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Computer & Software Stores Industry Report

Gift, Novelty & Souvenir Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5947, 5992

NAICS: 453110, 453220

Sample Questions & Answers

What is the company’s most serious competitive threat?

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

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

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Gift, Novelty & Souvenir Stores 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

Music Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5735

NAICS: 451220

Sample Questions & Answers

Who are the company’s most significant retail competitors?

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

How has digital downloading affected the company?

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Music Stores Industry Report

Business Services Sector Industry Report

Overview

The US business services sector consists of about 340,000 companies with combined annual sales of about $580 billion. Major companies include staffing services providers Manpower and Kelly Services; facilities service companies ABM Industries and Rollins Inc; and solid waste handlers Waste Management and Republic Services. Other major companies in the sector include office administrative service firms such as Automatic Data Processing and Iron Mountain; ADT Security Services, and the travel division of American Express. The business services sector is highly fragmented: the 50 largest companies account for less than 25 percent of sector revenue.

SIC: 0782, 7359, 1799, 4212, 4581, 4724, 4725, 7363, 7381, 7389, 7699, 8741, 8744, 9223, 1731, 7338, 7334, 7323, 7322, 7217, 4959, 4953, 4729

NAICS: 561599, 561611, 561612, 561613, 561621, 561622, 561710, 561720, 561730, 561740, 561790, 561910, 561920, 561990, 562111, 562112, 562119, 323114, 323115, 561110, 561210, 561311, 561312, 561320, 561330, 561410, 561421, 561422, 561431, 561439, 561440, 561450, 561491, 561492, 561499, 561510, 561520, 561591, 562211, 562212, 562213, 562219, 562910, 562920, 562991, 562998, 922140

Sample Questions & Answers

What is the company's key driver of demand?

Most providers of business services are dependent on corporate spending. Some business services suppliers can experience dramatic drops in demand during economic recessions when many businesses are struggling. Because businesses can cut back on...

How does the company differentiate itself from the competition?

For many types of business services the amount of capital investment required for startup is relatively low, resulting in intense competition among small companies. With a small investment, an individual can offer landscaping, pest control, 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 & 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.

Business Services Sector 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

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

Health Care Sector Industry Report

Overview

The US health care sector includes more than 780,000 hospitals, doctor offices, emergency care units, nursing homes, and social services providers with combined annual revenue of about $2 trillion. Major companies include Kaiser Permanente, HCA, Ascension Health, and Tenet Healthcare. The sector is highly fragmented: the top 50 organizations generate just 15 percent of revenue.

SIC: 8071, 4119, 5995, 7299, 8011, 8021, 8041, 8042, 8043, 8049, 8051, 8052, 8062, 8063, 8082, 8092, 8093, 8099, 8322, 8069, 8361, 8331

NAICS: 624410, 621340, 624230, 624229, 624221, 624210, 624190, 624120, 624110, 623990, 623312, 623311, 623220, 623210, 623110, 622310, 446130, 621111, 621112, 621210, 621310, 621320, 621330, 624310, 621391, 621399, 621410, 621420, 621491, 621492, 621493, 621498, 621511, 621512, 621610, 621910, 621991, 621999, 622110, 622210

Sample Questions & Answers

How will health care reform affect the company?

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (PPACA) is changing how medical care is acquired and paid for in the US. The landmark law, which makes health coverage available to all Americans, predominantly concerns ways to keep health care...

What measures is the company taking to hire and retain physicians?

Nearly 40 percent of doctors are 55 years old or older, and approaching retirement age, according to a study by the Center for Workforce Studies of the Association of American Colleges. About 33 percent of nurses are 50 and older, and more than half...

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.

Health Care Sector Industry Report

Furniture Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5712

NAICS: 442110

Sample Questions & Answers

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

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

How is competition from manufacturers impacting the company?

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Furniture Stores Industry Report

Toy & Hobby Stores Industry Report

Overview

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

SIC: 5945

NAICS: 451120

Sample Questions & Answers

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

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

How does the company compete with mass merchandisers?

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

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

General Report Description

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

Sections Included in Report

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

Industry Report Highlights:

Recent Developments
Stay up to date on crucial industry news that may affect your strategy.
Trends & 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.

Toy & Hobby Stores Industry Report