The IntertechPira methodology: Market analysis

Intertech-Pira undertakes investigations into a variety of areas, ranging from chemicals and advanced materials sectors to fast-growing, hi-tech industries downstream. Where applicable, materials studies will examine various material sub-types as well as key application markets on a global and regional basis, generally including analysis of major national markets. Studies on hi-tech sectors will follow a similar pattern, albeit more likely to include analysis of both upstream materials and downstream customer markets as well as analysis of trends within the industry itself.

Taking nonwovens as an example, demand is principally reliant on demand trends in its multiplicity of application markets, ranging from disposable nonwovens for wipes to durable nonwovens for fabrics, filtration, construction and other markets, in turn influenced by economic and other factors making up the operating environment. In addition, the increasing use of nonwovens has also variously helped bring about improved technical characteristics such as absorbency and garment protection, reductions in cross-contamination in medical and other applications, greater manufacturing efficiencies in areas like feminine hygiene and cost efficiencies through enabling the use of cheaper raw materials. Here and in other markets, all the various market drivers and other inputs are examined in this fashion, and the reports structured accordingly.

External/international dimensions
While retaining substantial in-house expertise, IntertechPira also employs more than 30 external industry consultants with specific market and/or technical knowledge. IntertechPira associates prepare market reports, give conference presentations on behalf of IntertechPira, engage in direct (often face-to-face) discussions with industry, take part in RADAR unit meetings as part of the Delphi process, and assist in market research and technical consultancy. The variety of work engaged in has helped Pira maintain close, long-term working relationships with these associates, in turn helping IntertechPira maintain a consistency of analysis over the years without over-dependence on the input of any single associate. Other associates, including in their ranks foreign-based research organisations, engage in more general survey and market investigation work, supported by in-house IntertechPira consultants and analysts.

IntertechPira associates are located around the world in all major regions, including in the US and in the key emerging and transitional markets of the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China). IntertechPira also has arrangements in place to conduct research in just about any country in the world, as the need arises.