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BADM 101

Competitive Research

"Competition: Alternative firms that could provide a product to satisy a specific market's needs." - Kerin, R., Edwards, G., Tibbo, G. (2005). Marketing: The core. McGraw-Hill Ryerson; Toronto. (p. 65).

ASK:

  • Who are the direct and/or indirect competitors of business/product/service that I am researching?
  • What are the leading companies in the business/product/service area that I am researching?
  • What other businesses are operating in the geographic area?

Visit CapU library's Company Research guide for more competitive research resources and tips.

Annual Reports

Annual reports from incorporated (public) companies are distributed to shareholders and, generally speaking, are required by regulations. Typically annual reports include audited finanical statements and information on the company's performance.

TIP: Look for the MD&A (Management Discussion & Analysis) in annual reports. MD&As will provide "information to the reader that management believes is useful in understanding the company’s operating results, cash flows, and financial condition" (Full Disclosure Background, 2006).

Directories

Use directories to identify companies within industries, and to learn more about the companies such as locations, histories, and employees, officers, and directors.

Online:

Lists and Rankings

Best Databases