First, see if there are industry reports available on your topic (e.g. in the databases listed below). These reports give you overviews, statistics, and give you an idea of where the industry is going according to the analyst. Just keep in mind that there is not always something to be found about new, or niche industries. You can then supplement this found information with, for example, supply chain reports, or industry case studies.
Then look for available market reports. These focus on the customer and the factors surrounding the customer, e.g. consumer behaviour. Usually, these reports look at the customer from a zoomed-out perspective: which age group mainly uses the product or service? Which regions are most important?
Can't find industry or market reports on your topic? Or would you like to supplement the information found with examples, data or news reports? Then it's best to click through in the top menu on, for example, statistics, data and trends, or business news and try those sources.
Don't find suitable information there either? Then it's time to search creatively.... Here are three tips that might help you further:
- Industry or trade associations
Industry associations clearly benefit from collecting data on their industry. Many industry associations collect industry statistics, maintain lists, publish white papers and research reports, and organise conferences and trade shows. Through these organisations, industry experts can be identified. Industry associations are also more likely to provide more detailed product and consumption information, even for niche markets. Do a Google search for industry association AND [your market/industry] to see what is available for your topic.
- Consultancy companies/ consultancies
Consultancy firms' websites often contain useful information on markets and industries. Examples include McKinsey, KPMG and BCG, but check via Google for more by searching consultancy AND [your market or industry].
- Government sources
The government also offers a lot of information on different industries. For example, see if you can find which regulatory body deals with your industry/market. This body often offers detailed statistics and other information.