Key Insights
The Saudi Arabia food and beverage market, valued at $23.48 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by a burgeoning population, rising disposable incomes, and shifting consumer preferences towards convenience and healthier options. The 3.44% CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) indicates a consistent expansion over the forecast period (2025-2033). Key growth drivers include increased urbanization leading to higher demand for processed foods and ready-to-eat meals, a thriving tourism sector boosting demand for diverse culinary offerings, and government initiatives promoting food security and diversification of the agricultural sector. The market's segmentation reveals a diverse landscape, with significant contributions from dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), dairy alternatives (plant-based milk, confectionery), snack bars, bakery items, meat products, and non-alcoholic beverages. Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the distribution channels, though the online retail segment is experiencing significant growth, reflecting evolving consumer shopping habits. Leading players like Almarai, SADAFCO, and international giants like Nestle and PepsiCo are actively shaping the market through product innovation and strategic partnerships.
While the market enjoys strong fundamentals, challenges remain. Potential restraints include fluctuating global commodity prices impacting input costs, evolving consumer health consciousness requiring product reformulation and increased emphasis on nutritional labeling, and the need for further development of the domestic agricultural sector to reduce reliance on imports. The market's growth trajectory is significantly influenced by consumer spending patterns, government policies aimed at promoting local food production, and the ongoing expansion of the hospitality and tourism sectors. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of healthy and organic food options presents both opportunities and challenges for existing players who must adapt to changing consumer demands. The ongoing evolution of this dynamic market presents significant opportunities for both domestic and international food and beverage companies to capitalize on its growth potential by catering to diverse consumer needs and preferences.

Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the Saudi Arabia food and beverage market, offering invaluable insights for businesses operating within or seeking entry into this dynamic sector. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report offers a complete picture of past performance, current market conditions, and future growth potential. The report covers key segments, dominant players, and emerging trends, equipping readers with actionable intelligence to navigate the complexities of this lucrative market. The total market size is estimated to be xx Million in 2025.
Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The Saudi Arabian food and beverage market exhibits a complex interplay of established players and emerging brands. Market concentration is moderate, with several large multinational corporations holding significant market share alongside a robust base of local and regional companies. Almarai Co Ltd, for example, commands a substantial share in the dairy sector, while PepsiCo Inc (Saudi Snack Foods Company Limited) dominates the snack and beverage segment. However, the market also showcases a dynamic competitive landscape with frequent new product launches and innovations.
The regulatory framework plays a crucial role, influencing food safety standards, import regulations, and labeling requirements. Innovation ecosystems are developing rapidly, particularly within the areas of food technology and sustainable food production. The growing awareness of health and wellness has driven the increased popularity of dairy alternatives and organic products, significantly impacting the overall market structure.
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities are common, reflecting the ongoing consolidation within the sector. For instance, Almarai's acquisition of the remaining stake in International Dairy and Juice Limited from PepsiCo for USD 68 Million in February 2023 signifies the strategic efforts to expand market share and product portfolio. Such deals reshape competitive dynamics, impacting market concentration and influencing pricing strategies. The total value of M&A deals within the last five years is estimated to be xx Million.
- Market Concentration: Moderate, with a mix of large multinationals and local players.
- Innovation Ecosystems: Growing, driven by food technology and sustainable practices.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Stringent food safety and labeling regulations.
- Product Substitutes: Rising popularity of health-conscious alternatives (e.g., dairy alternatives).
- End-User Trends: Increasing demand for convenience foods, healthy options, and premium products.
- M&A Activity: Significant activity, with a focus on consolidation and market expansion.
Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Industry Trends & Insights
The Saudi Arabian food and beverage market is experiencing robust growth driven by several key factors. A burgeoning population, rising disposable incomes, and changing lifestyles are fueling the demand for a wider variety of food and beverage products. Rapid urbanization is also contributing to the market expansion, with a significant increase in convenience stores and quick-service restaurants catering to the busy lifestyles of urban consumers. The country's ongoing Vision 2030 initiative is significantly impacting the sector, promoting investment in food processing, infrastructure development, and diversification away from oil dependency.
Technological disruptions are transforming the market, introducing innovations in food processing, packaging, and distribution. E-commerce platforms are gaining traction, offering consumers increased convenience and wider product selection. Consumer preferences are increasingly shifting towards healthier options, with a growing demand for organic, locally sourced products, and products with added nutritional value. This trend is particularly noticeable in the dairy and snack segments. The CAGR for the overall market is projected to be xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), with market penetration of new products experiencing an average annual increase of xx%. Competitive dynamics are further shaped by the ongoing expansion of regional and international brands, leading to increased competition and price pressures.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market
The Saudi Arabian food and beverage market is geographically diverse, with demand varying across different regions based on factors such as population density, income levels, and consumer preferences. However, the major urban centers, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, represent the most significant market segments due to their higher population density and increased purchasing power.
Within specific product segments, dairy products and non-alcoholic beverages exhibit significant dominance. Within dairy, milk, yogurt, and cheese enjoy the highest market share. The snack bar segment is also experiencing strong growth, driven by the rising popularity of healthier snack options.
- Key Drivers:
- Economic Growth: Rising disposable incomes and increased purchasing power.
- Population Growth: A young and growing population driving demand for food and beverage products.
- Urbanization: Expansion of retail channels and increased consumer access.
- Government Initiatives: Vision 2030 supporting infrastructure development and food security.
The dominance of certain segments stems from several factors: cultural preferences, health consciousness, and the availability of diverse products. For example, the large Muslim population significantly contributes to the high demand for halal-certified products.
Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Product Innovations
The Saudi Arabian food and beverage market is witnessing a surge in product innovations driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. Companies are investing in research and development to create healthier, more convenient, and sustainable food and beverage offerings. These innovations include the development of new dairy alternatives, functional beverages with added nutrients, and convenient ready-to-eat meals. The focus on natural ingredients, reduced sugar and salt content, and sustainable packaging is gaining prominence. These innovations are aimed at capturing a larger market share and meeting the growing demands of health-conscious consumers.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report offers a comprehensive segmentation of the Saudi Arabia food and beverage market across multiple dimensions:
Product Type: Dairy and Dairy Alternative Products, Confectionery, Snack Bars (Cereal Bars, Protein/Energy Bars, Fruit & Nut Bars), Beverages (Non-Alcoholic Beverages), Bakery, Other Bakery Products, Snacks, Meat, Poultry, Seafood, and Meat Substitutes, Breakfast Cereals, Ready Meals. Each segment's growth projection, market size, and competitive dynamics are thoroughly examined. Specific market sizes for each segment in 2025 are xx Million, xx Million, xx Million, etc. Growth projections for each segment will vary.
Distribution Channel: Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Speciality Stores, Online Retail Stores, Other Distribution Channels. The report analyzes the market share of each channel, the growth prospects for online retail, and the challenges posed by traditional channels.
Each segment's growth trajectory, market size, and competitive landscape are comprehensively analyzed in the report, providing detailed insights for strategic decision-making.
Key Drivers of Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Growth
Several factors are driving the growth of the Saudi Arabia food and beverage market. Technological advancements in food processing and packaging are improving product quality, shelf life, and convenience. The government's investment in infrastructure, including cold chain logistics, is supporting the efficient distribution of food and beverages across the country. Moreover, favorable economic policies and rising disposable incomes are boosting consumer spending on food and beverages. Specifically, Vision 2030's focus on diversification and food security has created a positive environment for investment and growth in the sector.
Challenges in the Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Sector
Despite the positive growth outlook, the Saudi Arabian food and beverage market faces several challenges. Stringent regulatory requirements and food safety standards increase compliance costs for companies. Supply chain inefficiencies, particularly in the transportation and storage of perishable goods, remain a significant concern. Furthermore, intense competition, both from established multinational corporations and emerging local brands, creates pressure on pricing and profitability. These challenges, if not addressed effectively, could potentially impact the market's long-term growth trajectory. For example, logistical challenges associated with maintaining a consistent cold chain in a hot climate can lead to an estimated annual loss of xx Million in spoiled goods.
Leading Players in the Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Market
- Almunajem Foods
- PepsiCo Inc (Saudi Snack Foods Company Limited)
- The Kellogg Company
- Nestle S A
- Arabian Agricultural Services Company (ARASCO)
- National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC)
- ALBAIK Food Systems Company S A (Aquat Food Industries Company)
- Al Othman Agricultural Products And Processing Co (Nada Dairy)
- Al-Watania Poultry
- Al Rabie Saudi Foods Co Ltd
- Almarai Co Ltd
- Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO)
- Tanmiah Food Company
Key Developments in Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Sector
- February 2023: Almarai acquired full ownership of International Dairy and Juice Limited from PepsiCo for USD 68 Million, significantly strengthening its position in the dairy market.
- March 2022: Arla Foods expanded its local production capacity in Saudi Arabia, leading to a 40% increase in local production, enhancing its market presence and contributing to domestic food production.
- March 2022: Rabwi Al Rawabi signed a lease agreement to establish a large-scale dairy production unit in Abu Dhabi, aiming to meet increasing demand within the GCC region and expand its export capabilities.
Strategic Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Market Outlook
The future of the Saudi Arabian food and beverage market is bright, with significant growth opportunities for businesses that can adapt to evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics. Continued investment in infrastructure, technological advancements, and supportive government policies will fuel market expansion. Companies that prioritize innovation, sustainability, and consumer health will be well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for high-quality, convenient, and healthy food and beverage products. The market's long-term growth is anticipated to be driven by a combination of population growth, rising disposable incomes, and the ongoing diversification of the Saudi Arabian economy.
Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
-
1.1. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Products
-
1.1.1. Dairy Products
- 1.1.1.1. Butter
- 1.1.1.2. Cheese
- 1.1.1.3. Cream
- 1.1.1.4. Dairy Desserts
- 1.1.1.5. Milk
- 1.1.1.6. Sour Milk Drinks
- 1.1.1.7. Yogurt
- 1.1.2. Dairy Alternatives
-
1.1.1. Dairy Products
-
1.2. Confectionery
- 1.2.1. Chocolate Confectionary
- 1.2.2. Sugar Confectionery
-
1.2.3. Snack Bar
- 1.2.3.1. Cereal Bars
- 1.2.3.2. Protein/Energy Bars
- 1.2.3.3. Fruit & Nut Bars
-
1.3. Beverage
- 1.3.1. Alcoholic Beverages
- 1.3.2. Non-Alcoholic Beverages
-
1.4. Bakery
- 1.4.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 1.4.2. Biscuits
- 1.4.3. Bread
- 1.4.4. Morning Goods
- 1.4.5. Other Bakery Products
- 1.5. Snacks
- 1.6. Meat, Poultry, Seafood, and Meat Substitute
- 1.7. Breakfast Cereals
- 1.8. Ready Meals
-
1.1. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Products
-
2. Distribution Channel
- 2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 2.2. Convenience Stores
- 2.3. Speciality Stores
- 2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 2.5. Other Distribution Channels
Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage 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 3.44% 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. Rising Demand for Clean Label Food & Beverage Products; Rising Demand for Dairy Products
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Presence of Preservatives in Ready Meals may Hamper the Market Growth
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Rising Expenditure on Organic and Clean Label Products
- 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. Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Products
- 5.1.1.1. Dairy Products
- 5.1.1.1.1. Butter
- 5.1.1.1.2. Cheese
- 5.1.1.1.3. Cream
- 5.1.1.1.4. Dairy Desserts
- 5.1.1.1.5. Milk
- 5.1.1.1.6. Sour Milk Drinks
- 5.1.1.1.7. Yogurt
- 5.1.1.2. Dairy Alternatives
- 5.1.1.1. Dairy Products
- 5.1.2. Confectionery
- 5.1.2.1. Chocolate Confectionary
- 5.1.2.2. Sugar Confectionery
- 5.1.2.3. Snack Bar
- 5.1.2.3.1. Cereal Bars
- 5.1.2.3.2. Protein/Energy Bars
- 5.1.2.3.3. Fruit & Nut Bars
- 5.1.3. Beverage
- 5.1.3.1. Alcoholic Beverages
- 5.1.3.2. Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- 5.1.4. Bakery
- 5.1.4.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 5.1.4.2. Biscuits
- 5.1.4.3. Bread
- 5.1.4.4. Morning Goods
- 5.1.4.5. Other Bakery Products
- 5.1.5. Snacks
- 5.1.6. Meat, Poultry, Seafood, and Meat Substitute
- 5.1.7. Breakfast Cereals
- 5.1.8. Ready Meals
- 5.1.1. Dairy and Dairy Alternative Products
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 5.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 5.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 5.2.3. Speciality Stores
- 5.2.4. Online Retail Stores
- 5.2.5. Other Distribution Channels
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Saudi Arabia
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. Central Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. Eastern Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Western Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. Southern Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Competitive Analysis
- 10.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 10.2. Company Profiles
- 10.2.1 Almunajem Foods
- 10.2.1.1. Overview
- 10.2.1.2. Products
- 10.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.2 PepsiCo Inc (Saudi Snack Foods Company Limited)
- 10.2.2.1. Overview
- 10.2.2.2. Products
- 10.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.3 The Kellogg Compan
- 10.2.3.1. Overview
- 10.2.3.2. Products
- 10.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.4 Nestle S A
- 10.2.4.1. Overview
- 10.2.4.2. Products
- 10.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.5 Arabian Agricultural Services Company (ARASCO)
- 10.2.5.1. Overview
- 10.2.5.2. Products
- 10.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.6 National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC)
- 10.2.6.1. Overview
- 10.2.6.2. Products
- 10.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.7 ALBAIK Food Systems Company S A (Aquat Food Industries Company)
- 10.2.7.1. Overview
- 10.2.7.2. Products
- 10.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.8 Al Othman Agricultural Products And Processing Co (Nada Dairy)
- 10.2.8.1. Overview
- 10.2.8.2. Products
- 10.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.9 Al-Watania Poultry
- 10.2.9.1. Overview
- 10.2.9.2. Products
- 10.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.10 Al Rabie Saudi Foods Co Ltd
- 10.2.10.1. Overview
- 10.2.10.2. Products
- 10.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.11 Almarai Co Ltd
- 10.2.11.1. Overview
- 10.2.11.2. Products
- 10.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.12 Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO)
- 10.2.12.1. Overview
- 10.2.12.2. Products
- 10.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.13 Tanmiah Food Company
- 10.2.13.1. Overview
- 10.2.13.2. Products
- 10.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.1 Almunajem Foods
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Central Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Eastern Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Western Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Southern Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 3.44%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market?
Key companies in the market include Almunajem Foods, PepsiCo Inc (Saudi Snack Foods Company Limited), The Kellogg Compan, Nestle S A, Arabian Agricultural Services Company (ARASCO), National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC), ALBAIK Food Systems Company S A (Aquat Food Industries Company), Al Othman Agricultural Products And Processing Co (Nada Dairy), Al-Watania Poultry, Al Rabie Saudi Foods Co Ltd, Almarai Co Ltd, Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO), Tanmiah Food Company.
3. What are the main segments of the Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market?
The market segments include Product Type, Distribution Channel.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 23.48 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Rising Demand for Clean Label Food & Beverage Products; Rising Demand for Dairy Products.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rising Expenditure on Organic and Clean Label Products.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Presence of Preservatives in Ready Meals may Hamper the Market Growth.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
February 2023: Saudi Arabian dairy company Almarai acquired full ownership of International Dairy and Juice Limited by purchasing the remaining share of its joint venture with PepsiCo for SAR 255 million (USD 68 million).
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 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 "Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage 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 Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage 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 Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Saudi Arabia Food & Beverage 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