Key Insights
The European noodles and pasta market, valued at approximately €[Estimate based on market size XX and value unit Million; e.g., €15 Billion] in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.55% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. The rising popularity of convenient, ready-to-eat meals fuels demand for noodles and pasta, particularly within the chilled/frozen and ambient/canned segments. Furthermore, shifting consumer preferences towards healthier options are creating opportunities for innovative product development, incorporating whole grains, organic ingredients, and unique flavor profiles. The growth is also fueled by the increasing penetration of online grocery shopping, providing consumers with easier access to a broader range of pasta and noodle products. However, the market faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and increased competition from other convenient food options. The market's segmentation reveals a strong presence across various distribution channels, with supermarkets/hypermarkets dominating, followed by convenience stores and a rapidly growing online segment. Major players such as Unilever, Barilla, Nestlé, and Nissin are actively shaping market dynamics through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and brand building initiatives. Regional variations within Europe exist, with Germany, France, Italy, and the UK representing significant market segments.
The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued market expansion, driven by sustained consumer demand and the ongoing evolution of product offerings. The chilled/frozen segment is expected to outpace other forms due to its convenience factor. Strategic expansions into emerging markets within Europe and ongoing marketing efforts by key players will further influence market trajectory. While economic factors and potential supply chain disruptions could pose challenges, the overall outlook remains positive, with continued growth expected throughout the forecast period, particularly driven by a focus on health-conscious and convenient options catering to busy lifestyles. The competitive landscape is expected to remain highly dynamic, with both established players and emerging brands vying for market share through product diversification and targeted marketing campaigns.

Europe Noodles and Pasta Market: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and market researchers. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report delivers a detailed understanding of market dynamics, competitive landscape, and future growth potential. The report covers key segments, including distribution channels and product forms, providing a granular view of market size, growth projections, and key trends. This report is crucial for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of this dynamic market and make informed strategic decisions.
Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The Europe Noodles and Pasta Market is characterized by a mix of established multinational corporations and regional players. Market concentration is moderate, with a few dominant players holding significant market share, while numerous smaller companies compete in niche segments. Innovation in this sector is driven by consumer demand for healthier options, convenience, and diverse flavors. Regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning food safety and labeling, play a significant role in shaping market dynamics. Product substitutes, such as rice noodles and other grain-based alternatives, exert some competitive pressure. End-user trends lean towards healthier and more convenient options, fueling innovation in product formulations and packaging. M&A activities have been significant in recent years, with deals focused on expanding market reach, diversifying product portfolios, and strengthening brand presence.
- Market Share: Unilever, Barilla G e R F lli S p A, and Nestlé are estimated to hold a combined market share of approximately xx% in 2025.
- M&A Activity: Recent acquisitions, such as CG Foods’ acquisition of GB Foods’ business in Russia/CIS markets (Oct 2021), and Newlat’s acquisition of Symington’s in the UK (Aug 2021), underscore the importance of strategic partnerships and consolidation in the market. Total M&A deal value for the period 2019-2024 is estimated at xx Million.
Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Industry Trends & Insights
The Europe Noodles and Pasta Market is experiencing steady growth, driven by several key factors. Rising disposable incomes, changing consumer lifestyles, and increasing demand for convenient and ready-to-eat meals are major growth catalysts. Technological advancements in food processing and packaging are improving product quality, shelf life, and overall consumer experience. Consumer preferences are shifting towards healthier options, including whole-grain pasta, gluten-free varieties, and organic products. The competitive landscape is intensely competitive, with companies constantly striving to innovate and capture market share through product diversification and effective marketing strategies. The market is expected to register a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), with market penetration expected to reach xx% by 2033.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Europe Noodles and Pasta Market
The Italian and German markets dominate the European noodles and pasta market in terms of consumption volume and value. The UK market shows significant potential for future growth. Dried pasta accounts for the largest share of the market.
Leading Regions/Countries:
- Italy: Strong domestic consumption, established production base, and significant export capabilities. Key drivers include culinary traditions, established infrastructure, and government support for the agri-food sector.
- Germany: High per capita consumption driven by a large population and diverse consumer preferences. Key drivers include strong economic growth and established retail infrastructure.
- United Kingdom: Growing demand for convenience and ready-to-eat meals. Key drivers include increasing urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles.
Dominant Segments:
- Distribution Channel: Supermarkets/Hypermarkets hold the largest market share due to their widespread reach and established distribution networks. Online stores are experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing e-commerce adoption and home delivery services.
- Form: Dried pasta commands the largest market share due to its long shelf life, affordability, and convenience. However, the chilled/frozen segment is experiencing growth due to rising demand for ready-to-eat meals.
Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Product Innovations
Recent product innovations focus on healthier options, convenience, and premiumization. This includes gluten-free pasta, whole-wheat pasta, organic pasta, and innovative ready-to-eat meal solutions integrating noodles and pasta. Technological advancements in food processing and packaging are enhancing product quality, shelf life, and appealing to health-conscious consumers. Companies are leveraging technological trends to increase product differentiation and cater to niche consumer preferences. This focus on innovation contributes to improved market fit and competitive advantage.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report segments the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market based on distribution channels (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Stores, Other Distribution Channels) and product form (Ambient/Canned, Dried, Chilled/Frozen). Each segment's market size, growth projections, and competitive dynamics are analyzed in detail. The report provides a granular understanding of the various market segments and their respective growth trajectories within the broader European context. Detailed competitive analysis is included for each segment to guide strategic decision-making.
Key Drivers of Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Growth
Several factors fuel the growth of the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market. These include:
- Rising Disposable Incomes: Increased purchasing power allows consumers to spend more on food, including premium pasta and noodle products.
- Changing Lifestyles: Busy lifestyles are driving demand for convenient ready-to-eat meals.
- Health and Wellness Trends: Growing awareness of health and nutrition is boosting demand for healthier pasta and noodle options.
- Innovation in Product Formulations: New product offerings, such as gluten-free and organic pasta, cater to evolving consumer preferences.
Challenges in the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Sector
Despite positive growth trends, the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market faces several challenges.
- Intense Competition: The market is highly competitive, with both large multinational corporations and smaller regional players vying for market share.
- Fluctuating Raw Material Prices: Changes in wheat prices can impact production costs and profitability.
- Changing Consumer Preferences: Keeping pace with evolving consumer tastes and demands requires continuous innovation.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meeting stringent food safety and labeling regulations poses a challenge for manufacturers.
Leading Players in the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Market
- Unilever
- Barilla G e R F lli S p A
- Nestle
- Nissin Food Products Co
- CJ CheilJedang
- Unilever PLC
- Ebro Foods S A
- The Kraft Heinz Company
- ITC Limited
- F lli De Cecco di Filippo SpA
Key Developments in Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Sector
- October 2021: CG Foods (Wai Wai noodles) acquired GB Foods’ business in Russia/CIS markets, expanding its European presence.
- August 2021: Newlat (Italy) acquired Symington’s (UK), gaining access to private-label pasta and noodle brands.
- May 2020: Le Stagioni d'Italia launched in the UK, addressing a pasta shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Strategic Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Market Outlook
The Europe Noodles and Pasta Market presents significant growth potential driven by increasing demand for convenience, health-conscious options, and premium products. Strategic opportunities exist for companies focusing on innovation, sustainable sourcing, and effective marketing to capture a larger share of this dynamic market. The focus on healthier and more convenient options will continue to shape future market trends, creating opportunities for businesses that can adapt to these evolving consumer preferences. The market shows potential for continued expansion and consolidation as players seek to optimize their product portfolios and geographic reach.
Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Segmentation
-
1. Form
- 1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 1.2. Dried
- 1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
-
2. Distibution Channel
- 2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 2.2. Convenience Stores
- 2.3. Online Stores
- 2.4. Other Distribution Channels
Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United Kingdom
- 2. Germany
- 3. Spain
- 4. France
- 5. Italy
- 6. Rest of Europe

Europe Noodles and Pasta 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 7.55% 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. Increased interest in international cuisines and diverse flavor profiles.
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Rising awareness about health issues related to high carbohydrate intake and gluten may impact traditional pasta consumption
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increasing demand for gluten-free pasta and noodles
- 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. Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 5.1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 5.1.2. Dried
- 5.1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 5.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 5.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 5.2.3. Online Stores
- 5.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. United Kingdom
- 5.3.2. Germany
- 5.3.3. Spain
- 5.3.4. France
- 5.3.5. Italy
- 5.3.6. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 6. United Kingdom Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 6.1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 6.1.2. Dried
- 6.1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 6.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 6.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 6.2.3. Online Stores
- 6.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 7. Germany Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 7.1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 7.1.2. Dried
- 7.1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 7.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 7.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 7.2.3. Online Stores
- 7.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 8. Spain Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 8.1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 8.1.2. Dried
- 8.1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 8.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 8.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 8.2.3. Online Stores
- 8.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 9. France Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 9.1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 9.1.2. Dried
- 9.1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 9.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 9.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 9.2.3. Online Stores
- 9.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 10. Italy Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 10.1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 10.1.2. Dried
- 10.1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 10.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 10.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 10.2.3. Online Stores
- 10.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 11. Rest of Europe Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 11.1.1. Ambient/Canned
- 11.1.2. Dried
- 11.1.3. Chilled/ Frozen
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 11.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 11.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 11.2.3. Online Stores
- 11.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 12. Germany Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. France Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Italy Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. United Kingdom Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Netherlands Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Sweden Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Rest of Europe Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19. Competitive Analysis
- 19.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 19.2. Company Profiles
- 19.2.1 Unilever
- 19.2.1.1. Overview
- 19.2.1.2. Products
- 19.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.2 Barilla G e R F lli S p A
- 19.2.2.1. Overview
- 19.2.2.2. Products
- 19.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.3 Nestle
- 19.2.3.1. Overview
- 19.2.3.2. Products
- 19.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.4 Nissin Food Products Co
- 19.2.4.1. Overview
- 19.2.4.2. Products
- 19.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.5 CJ CheilJedang
- 19.2.5.1. Overview
- 19.2.5.2. Products
- 19.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.6 Unilever PLC
- 19.2.6.1. Overview
- 19.2.6.2. Products
- 19.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.7 Ebro Foods S A
- 19.2.7.1. Overview
- 19.2.7.2. Products
- 19.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.8 The Kraft Heinz Company
- 19.2.8.1. Overview
- 19.2.8.2. Products
- 19.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.9 ITC Limited
- 19.2.9.1. Overview
- 19.2.9.2. Products
- 19.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.10 F lli De Cecco di Filippo SpA
- 19.2.10.1. Overview
- 19.2.10.2. Products
- 19.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.1 Unilever
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Noodles and Pasta Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 7.55%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market?
Key companies in the market include Unilever, Barilla G e R F lli S p A, Nestle, Nissin Food Products Co, CJ CheilJedang, Unilever PLC, Ebro Foods S A, The Kraft Heinz Company, ITC Limited, F lli De Cecco di Filippo SpA .
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Noodles and Pasta Market?
The market segments include Form, Distibution Channel.
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?
Increased interest in international cuisines and diverse flavor profiles..
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increasing demand for gluten-free pasta and noodles.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Rising awareness about health issues related to high carbohydrate intake and gluten may impact traditional pasta consumption.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In Oct 2021, CG Foods, which makes Wai Wai noodles, announced to acquire GB Foods' business in the Russia/CIS markets. The acquisition aims to improve CG Foods' presence in Europe and CIS markets, besides diversifying into culinary products and pasta.
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 "Europe Noodles and Pasta 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 Europe Noodles and Pasta 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 Europe Noodles and Pasta Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Noodles and Pasta 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