Key Insights
The North American specialty coffee market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.90% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The increasing popularity of gourmet coffee, fueled by evolving consumer preferences for high-quality, ethically sourced beans and unique brewing methods, is a significant factor. Furthermore, the rise in disposable incomes, particularly among millennials and Gen Z who are driving demand for premium coffee experiences, contributes to market growth. The expanding café culture, with an increasing number of independent coffee shops and specialty chains, also provides ample opportunities for market expansion. The market is segmented by product type (whole bean, ground coffee, instant coffee, coffee pods and capsules) and distribution channel (on-trade, off-trade), with the convenient coffee pods and capsules segment expected to maintain a strong growth trajectory due to its ease of use and consistent quality. Growth within the off-trade channel, encompassing grocery stores and online retail, is also anticipated to be strong, reflecting the increasing consumer preference for at-home coffee consumption.
However, the market faces certain challenges. Fluctuations in coffee bean prices due to global factors like climate change and geopolitical instability pose a risk to profitability. Increasing competition among established players and new entrants in the market necessitates continuous innovation and brand differentiation. Lastly, growing concerns about sustainability and ethical sourcing practices, with consumers increasingly demanding eco-friendly and responsibly produced coffee, pose both an opportunity and a challenge for market players. Addressing these concerns through transparent supply chains and sustainable practices will be crucial for long-term success within the North American specialty coffee market. The major players, including JAB Holding Company, Massimo Zanetti Industries, Luigi Lavazza, and Starbucks, are strategically positioned to capitalize on these trends through product diversification, brand building, and strategic acquisitions.

North America Specialty Coffee Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This dynamic report provides a deep dive into the North American specialty coffee market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and market researchers. With a detailed analysis spanning the period from 2019 to 2033 (Historical Period: 2019–2024, Base Year: 2025, Estimated Year: 2025, Forecast Period: 2025–2033), this report unveils the market's current state and projects its future trajectory. The report leverages high-impact keywords and comprehensive data to maximize search engine visibility and provide actionable intelligence. Expect detailed analysis across key segments including product type (whole bean, ground coffee, instant coffee, coffee pods and capsules) and distribution channels (on-trade, off-trade), coupled with in-depth profiles of major players like JAB Holding Company, Massimo Zanetti Industries S.A., Luigi Lavazza S.p.A., The J.M. Smucker Company, Keurig Dr Pepper Inc., The Kraft Heinz Company, Starbucks Corporation, Tata Group (Eight O'Clock Coffee Company), Maxingvest AG (Tchibo), and Nestlé S.A.
North America Specialty Coffee Market Structure & Competitive Landscape
This section analyzes the North American specialty coffee market's competitive landscape, encompassing market concentration, innovation drivers, regulatory influences, product substitutes, end-user segmentation, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) trends. The market demonstrates a moderately consolidated structure, with the top five players holding an estimated xx% market share in 2025. The concentration ratio (CR5) is projected to remain relatively stable over the forecast period, with minor fluctuations driven by M&A activity and new product launches.
Key Aspects:
- Market Concentration: The CR5 is estimated at xx% in 2025, indicating a moderately concentrated market.
- Innovation Drivers: Consumer demand for premium, ethically sourced, and sustainably produced coffee fuels innovation in product offerings, brewing technologies, and packaging solutions.
- Regulatory Impacts: Government regulations concerning food safety, labeling, and sustainability influence market practices and product development.
- Product Substitutes: Tea, other beverages, and energy drinks represent significant substitutes, impacting market growth.
- End-User Segmentation: The market caters to diverse end-users, including individual consumers, cafes, restaurants, and offices, each with unique consumption patterns.
- M&A Trends: The specialty coffee sector witnesses regular M&A activity, driven by consolidation efforts and expansion strategies. The total value of M&A deals in the sector from 2019 to 2024 was approximately $xx Million.
North America Specialty Coffee Market Trends & Opportunities
The North America specialty coffee market exhibits robust growth, driven by several significant trends. Consumer preference for high-quality, specialty coffee continues to rise, propelled by increased disposable income, changing lifestyles, and a growing interest in ethical sourcing. Technological advancements in coffee brewing and distribution significantly impact market dynamics. The market has experienced a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024) and is expected to witness a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). The market penetration rate for specialty coffee is projected to reach xx% by 2033. The expanding e-commerce sector opens up new avenues for direct-to-consumer sales and brand building. However, intense competition among established players and emerging brands presents challenges. Sustainable and ethical sourcing practices are gaining traction, offering new market opportunities. Premiumization and product diversification are key strategies for success in this dynamic market.

Dominant Markets & Segments in North America Specialty Coffee Market
The United States dominates the North American specialty coffee market, accounting for the largest market share. Within product types, coffee pods and capsules experience the fastest growth, fueled by convenience and single-serving formats. The off-trade channel (grocery stores, supermarkets, online retailers) holds a larger share than the on-trade channel (cafes, restaurants).
Key Growth Drivers:
- United States: High coffee consumption rates, strong consumer spending power, and a diverse range of retail channels.
- Coffee Pods & Capsules: Convenience, single-serving options, and consistent quality drive segment growth.
- Off-Trade Channel: Wide product availability, competitive pricing, and growing online retail penetration.
North America Specialty Coffee Market Product Analysis
Product innovation is a key differentiator in the North American specialty coffee market. Companies are constantly introducing new blends, roasts, flavors, and brewing methods to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Technological advancements, such as improved brewing technologies (e.g., single-serve pod systems) and smart coffee makers, enhance convenience and product quality, driving market growth. Sustainable and ethically sourced coffee offerings capture growing consumer interest, resulting in premium pricing and brand loyalty. The market witnesses continuous innovation in packaging to improve product shelf life and reduce environmental impact.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in North America Specialty Coffee Market
Key Drivers:
Rising disposable incomes, shifting consumer preferences towards premium coffee, and technological advancements in brewing methods and distribution drive market growth. Government initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture also positively impact the sector.
Challenges and Restraints:
Fluctuations in coffee bean prices, supply chain disruptions, and intense competition among established and emerging players pose challenges. Stricter regulations and environmental concerns impact market dynamics. The total estimated impact of these challenges on market growth is estimated to be a reduction of xx% by 2033.
Growth Drivers in the North America Specialty Coffee Market
The North America specialty coffee market's growth is propelled by increasing consumer disposable incomes, a burgeoning demand for premium coffee experiences, and advancements in brewing technology. Furthermore, heightened consumer awareness of ethical and sustainable sourcing practices further fuels market expansion.
Challenges Impacting North America Specialty Coffee Market Growth
The market faces challenges from fluctuating coffee bean prices, complexities in global supply chains, and the intensifying competitive landscape. Additionally, stringent regulatory environments and sustainability concerns impose considerable constraints on market growth.
Key Players Shaping the North America Specialty Coffee Market
- JAB Holding Company
- Massimo Zanetti Industries S.A.
- Luigi Lavazza S.p.A.
- The J.M. Smucker Company
- Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.
- The Kraft Heinz Company
- Starbucks Corporation
- Tata Group (Eight O'Clock Coffee Company)
- Maxingvest AG (Tchibo)
- Nestlé S.A.
Significant North America Specialty Coffee Market Industry Milestones
- April 2021: Nestlé's development of low-carbon coffee varieties reduces the CO2e footprint of green coffee beans by up to 30%.
- January 2022: Peet's Coffee's full transition to water-based decaffeination enhances product quality and aligns with consumer preferences for natural processes.
- July 2022: Keurig Dr. Pepper's launch of Intelligentsia K-Cup pods capitalizes on the growing demand for specialty coffee within the United States.
Future Outlook for North America Specialty Coffee Market
The North American specialty coffee market presents a promising future, fueled by the confluence of rising consumer spending power, an increasing preference for premium coffee, and continual product innovation. Strategic opportunities lie in expanding sustainable and ethically sourced offerings, diversifying product portfolios, and capitalizing on e-commerce growth. The market is poised for sustained expansion, driven by these factors.
North America Specialty Coffee Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Whole Bean
- 1.2. Ground Coffee
- 1.3. Instant Coffee
- 1.4. Coffee Pods and Capsules
-
2. Distribution Channel
- 2.1. On-Trade
-
2.2. Off-Trade
- 2.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 2.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 2.2.3. Specialist Retailers
- 2.2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 2.2.5. Other Off-Trade Channels
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. United States
- 3.2. Canada
- 3.3. Mexico
- 3.4. Rest of North America
North America Specialty Coffee Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States
- 2. Canada
- 3. Mexico
- 4. Rest of North America

North America Specialty Coffee Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 5.90% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Increasing Incidences of Food Allergies; Favorable Government Initiatives and Regulations for Food Safety
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Inconsistencies Involved in Food Allergen Declarations
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increase in Coffee Consumption Among Working Population
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Whole Bean
- 5.1.2. Ground Coffee
- 5.1.3. Instant Coffee
- 5.1.4. Coffee Pods and Capsules
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 5.2.1. On-Trade
- 5.2.2. Off-Trade
- 5.2.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 5.2.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 5.2.2.3. Specialist Retailers
- 5.2.2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 5.2.2.5. Other Off-Trade Channels
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. United States
- 5.3.2. Canada
- 5.3.3. Mexico
- 5.3.4. Rest of North America
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. United States
- 5.4.2. Canada
- 5.4.3. Mexico
- 5.4.4. Rest of North America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. United States North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6.1.1. Whole Bean
- 6.1.2. Ground Coffee
- 6.1.3. Instant Coffee
- 6.1.4. Coffee Pods and Capsules
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 6.2.1. On-Trade
- 6.2.2. Off-Trade
- 6.2.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 6.2.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 6.2.2.3. Specialist Retailers
- 6.2.2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 6.2.2.5. Other Off-Trade Channels
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. United States
- 6.3.2. Canada
- 6.3.3. Mexico
- 6.3.4. Rest of North America
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7. Canada North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7.1.1. Whole Bean
- 7.1.2. Ground Coffee
- 7.1.3. Instant Coffee
- 7.1.4. Coffee Pods and Capsules
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 7.2.1. On-Trade
- 7.2.2. Off-Trade
- 7.2.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 7.2.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 7.2.2.3. Specialist Retailers
- 7.2.2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 7.2.2.5. Other Off-Trade Channels
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. United States
- 7.3.2. Canada
- 7.3.3. Mexico
- 7.3.4. Rest of North America
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8. Mexico North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8.1.1. Whole Bean
- 8.1.2. Ground Coffee
- 8.1.3. Instant Coffee
- 8.1.4. Coffee Pods and Capsules
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 8.2.1. On-Trade
- 8.2.2. Off-Trade
- 8.2.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 8.2.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 8.2.2.3. Specialist Retailers
- 8.2.2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 8.2.2.5. Other Off-Trade Channels
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. United States
- 8.3.2. Canada
- 8.3.3. Mexico
- 8.3.4. Rest of North America
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9. Rest of North America North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9.1.1. Whole Bean
- 9.1.2. Ground Coffee
- 9.1.3. Instant Coffee
- 9.1.4. Coffee Pods and Capsules
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 9.2.1. On-Trade
- 9.2.2. Off-Trade
- 9.2.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 9.2.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 9.2.2.3. Specialist Retailers
- 9.2.2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 9.2.2.5. Other Off-Trade Channels
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.3.1. United States
- 9.3.2. Canada
- 9.3.3. Mexico
- 9.3.4. Rest of North America
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 10. United States North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Canada North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Mexico North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Rest of North America North America Specialty Coffee Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Competitive Analysis
- 14.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 14.2. Company Profiles
- 14.2.1 JAB Holding Company
- 14.2.1.1. Overview
- 14.2.1.2. Products
- 14.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.2 Massimo Zanetti Industries S A
- 14.2.2.1. Overview
- 14.2.2.2. Products
- 14.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.3 Luigi Lavazza S p A
- 14.2.3.1. Overview
- 14.2.3.2. Products
- 14.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.4 The J M Smucker Company
- 14.2.4.1. Overview
- 14.2.4.2. Products
- 14.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.5 Keurig Dr Pepper Inc
- 14.2.5.1. Overview
- 14.2.5.2. Products
- 14.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.6 The Kraft Heinz Company
- 14.2.6.1. Overview
- 14.2.6.2. Products
- 14.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.7 Starbucks Corporation
- 14.2.7.1. Overview
- 14.2.7.2. Products
- 14.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.8 Tata Group (Eight O'Clock Coffee Company)*List Not Exhaustive
- 14.2.8.1. Overview
- 14.2.8.2. Products
- 14.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.9 Maxingvest AG (Tchibo)
- 14.2.9.1. Overview
- 14.2.9.2. Products
- 14.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.10 Nestlé S A
- 14.2.10.1. Overview
- 14.2.10.2. Products
- 14.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.1 JAB Holding Company
List of Figures
- Figure 1: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Specialty Coffee Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: United States North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Canada North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Mexico North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Rest of North America North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: North America Specialty Coffee Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the North America Specialty Coffee Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5.90%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the North America Specialty Coffee Market?
Key companies in the market include JAB Holding Company, Massimo Zanetti Industries S A, Luigi Lavazza S p A, The J M Smucker Company, Keurig Dr Pepper Inc, The Kraft Heinz Company, Starbucks Corporation, Tata Group (Eight O'Clock Coffee Company)*List Not Exhaustive, Maxingvest AG (Tchibo), Nestlé S A.
3. What are the main segments of the North America Specialty Coffee Market?
The market segments include Product Type, Distribution Channel, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing Incidences of Food Allergies; Favorable Government Initiatives and Regulations for Food Safety.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increase in Coffee Consumption Among Working Population.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Inconsistencies Involved in Food Allergen Declarations.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
July 2022: Keurig Dr. Pepper announced the launch of Intelligentsia K-Cup pods for its Keurig brewing system to capitalize on the growing demand for specialty coffee in the United States. Intelligentsia K-Cups are available in two flavors: House and Organic El Gallo, and can be purchased for 90 cents per pod in a 60-count box from Keurig.com.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "North America Specialty Coffee Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the North America Specialty Coffee Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the North America Specialty Coffee Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the North America Specialty Coffee Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence