How to conduct market research

[timmy1]

We want to carry out research on general trading stats for a specific sector - annual UK turnover, buying trends, etc. There are a number of leading market research organisation who will supply this information but the costs seen quite high. Does anyone have any advice on less expensive/free sources of market and trade data.

[colin104]

Depending on the specifics of that sector you can identify your target segments and either prepare and conduct an online survey, or do some focus groups.

[smartbookings]

We want to carry out research on general trading stats for a specific sector - annual UK turnover, buying trends, etc. There are a number of leading market research organisation who will supply this information but the costs seen quite high. Does anyone have any advice on less expensive/free sources of market and trade data.

I think you can buy this info from companys house much cheaper than using marketing companys

[aerodesigns]

I didn't know Companies House did any sector-specific data, I thought it was just on an individual company basis? I know they do a DVD of companies, but this doesn't include turnover etc.. that might be useful for market research.