Key Insights
The Latin American contract logistics services market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the region's expanding manufacturing sector, increasing e-commerce penetration, and a rising demand for efficient supply chain solutions. The market, estimated at $XX million in 2025, is projected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 3.50% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the burgeoning industrial machinery and automotive sectors in countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are significantly increasing their reliance on outsourced logistics capabilities for cost optimization and operational efficiency. Secondly, the food and beverage, and chemical industries are also contributing to market expansion, as companies prioritize streamlined distribution networks to meet growing consumer demand and maintain product quality. Finally, the increasing adoption of advanced technologies like warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS) is enhancing operational efficiency and driving market growth.
Despite the positive outlook, certain restraints are present. Infrastructure limitations in some parts of Latin America, particularly in terms of road and rail networks, can impede efficient logistics operations and add to transportation costs. Furthermore, political and economic instability in certain regions can create uncertainty for businesses and impact investment decisions in the contract logistics sector. However, the overall growth trajectory remains positive, particularly considering the significant opportunities presented by the expanding e-commerce landscape and the increasing focus on regional trade agreements that facilitate cross-border logistics. Key players like DB Schenker, UPS, C.H. Robinson, and DHL are actively expanding their presence in the region, leveraging their expertise and global networks to cater to the rising demand for sophisticated contract logistics services. The market segmentation by type (insourced vs. outsourced) and end-user industry provides further granularity for understanding growth dynamics within specific niches.

Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This insightful report provides a detailed analysis of the Latin America contract logistics services market, offering a comprehensive overview of its current state, future trajectory, and key players. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base year and a forecast extending to 2033, this study is essential for stakeholders seeking to understand and capitalize on the opportunities within this dynamic market. The market size in 2025 is estimated at xx Million.
Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Composition & Trends
This section delves into the intricacies of the Latin American contract logistics services market, examining its competitive landscape, innovation drivers, and regulatory environment. We analyze the market's concentration, identifying key players and their respective market shares. The report assesses the impact of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities, providing insights into deal values and their influence on market dynamics. Furthermore, we explore the roles of substitute products, end-user profiles (including Industrial Machinery and Automotive, Food and Beverage, Chemicals, and Other End Users), and the overall regulatory landscape shaping the market.
- Market Concentration: The Latin American contract logistics services market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players like DB Schenker, United Parcel Services (UPS), C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc., GEODIS, Kuehne + Nagel International AG, FedEx, CEVA Logistics, DHL Supply Chain, and Penske Logistics holding significant market share. Smaller players and regional specialists also contribute to the overall market dynamics. The combined market share of the top 10 players is estimated at xx%.
- M&A Activity: The historical period (2019-2024) witnessed xx M&A deals in the Latin American contract logistics sector, with a total estimated value of xx Million. These activities have significantly reshaped the competitive landscape, leading to increased consolidation and expansion of service offerings.
- Innovation Catalysts: Technological advancements, such as blockchain technology and AI-powered logistics solutions, are driving innovation and efficiency within the market.
- Regulatory Landscape: Varying regulations across Latin American countries influence operational costs and compliance requirements for contract logistics providers.

Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Industry Evolution
This section provides a detailed analysis of the market's growth trajectory, technological advancements, and evolving consumer demands from 2019 to 2033. We examine the factors driving market expansion, including increasing e-commerce penetration, the growth of cross-border trade, and the ongoing need for efficient supply chain management across diverse industries. The report includes specific data points on market growth rates and adoption metrics for key technologies. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). Specific growth drivers include:
- E-commerce Boom: The rapid expansion of e-commerce across Latin America is fueling demand for efficient last-mile delivery solutions and robust warehousing capabilities.
- Technological Advancements: The adoption of advanced technologies, including warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), and route optimization software, is significantly enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs.
- Shifting Consumer Demands: Consumers are increasingly demanding faster delivery times and enhanced visibility into their shipments, driving the need for sophisticated logistics solutions.
Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market
This section pinpoints the dominant regions, countries, and segments within the Latin American contract logistics services market. Analysis will focus on the key drivers influencing their dominance, including investment trends, regulatory support, and infrastructure development.
By Type: The Outsourced segment currently dominates the market, driven by the increasing preference for outsourcing non-core logistics functions to specialized providers. However, the Insourced segment is expected to witness modest growth during the forecast period.
By End User: The Industrial Machinery and Automotive, and Food and Beverage sectors represent the largest end-user segments, primarily due to their high logistics needs and sensitivity to efficient supply chain management. The Chemicals sector shows promising growth potential.
Dominant Regions/Countries: Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia are expected to remain the leading markets in terms of revenue generation throughout the forecast period. These countries are characterized by their larger economies, robust infrastructure (though with regional variation), and high levels of industrial activity.
Key Drivers of Dominance:
- Brazil: Large and diverse economy, significant industrial activity.
- Mexico: Proximity to the US market, strong manufacturing sector, ongoing infrastructure development.
- Colombia: Growing economy, improvements in infrastructure, and increasing foreign investment.
Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Product Innovations
Recent innovations in contract logistics services encompass the use of advanced technologies like AI-powered route optimization, blockchain for enhanced supply chain transparency and traceability, and the integration of robotics and automation in warehousing operations. These innovations are delivering improved efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction, providing unique selling propositions that are driving market growth. The adoption of these technologies is expected to accelerate during the forecast period.
Propelling Factors for Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Growth
Several key factors are driving the growth of the Latin American contract logistics services market. These include the burgeoning e-commerce sector, increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) in various industries, and the ongoing modernization of transportation infrastructure in key regions. Additionally, governmental initiatives promoting trade liberalization and facilitating cross-border commerce are also playing a significant role.
Obstacles in the Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market
Despite its growth potential, the Latin American contract logistics services market faces certain challenges. These include infrastructure limitations in certain regions, leading to increased transportation costs and delays. Furthermore, inconsistent regulatory frameworks across different countries can create complexities for logistics providers. Finally, intense competition, both from established multinational players and regional companies, is pressuring profit margins.
Future Opportunities in Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market
The Latin American contract logistics services market presents promising future opportunities. The continued expansion of e-commerce, coupled with the growing adoption of advanced technologies, will create demand for innovative and efficient logistics solutions. Furthermore, the development of specialized services tailored to specific industries, such as cold chain logistics for the food and beverage sector, presents considerable potential for growth.
Major Players in the Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Ecosystem
- DB Schenker
- United Parcel Service (UPS)
- C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc.
- GEODIS
- Kuehne + Nagel International AG
- FedEx
- CEVA Logistics
- DHL Supply Chain
- Penske Logistics
- DSV
- 3 Other Companies
Key Developments in Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Industry
- January 2023: DHL announces expansion of its warehousing facilities in Mexico City.
- March 2022: UPS invests in sustainable delivery solutions in Brazil.
- June 2021: DB Schenker acquires a regional logistics provider in Colombia. (Further developments will be added in the full report)
Strategic Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Forecast
The Latin America contract logistics services market is poised for significant growth driven by sustained e-commerce expansion, increasing industrial activity, and investments in infrastructure development. The adoption of innovative technologies, coupled with favorable regulatory environments in key markets, will further propel market expansion. The potential for growth in specialized logistics sectors, such as cold chain and healthcare logistics, presents further opportunities for market players.
Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Insourced
- 1.2. Outsourced
-
2. End User
- 2.1. Industrial Machinery and Automotive
- 2.2. Food and Beverage
- 2.3. Chemicals
- 2.4. Other End Users
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. Mexico
- 3.2. Brazil
- 3.3. Colombia
- 3.4. Chile
- 3.5. Rest of Latin America
Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Mexico
- 2. Brazil
- 3. Colombia
- 4. Chile
- 5. Rest of Latin America

Latin America Contract Logistics Services 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 > 3.50% 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. Pharmaceutical Industry Demands Advanced Cold-Chain Services; E-commerce driving the cold chain logistics
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Damaged Goods; Increasing Transportation Cost
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Growth in the Automotive Sector is Spearheading the Market
- 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. Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Insourced
- 5.1.2. Outsourced
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 5.2.1. Industrial Machinery and Automotive
- 5.2.2. Food and Beverage
- 5.2.3. Chemicals
- 5.2.4. Other End Users
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. Mexico
- 5.3.2. Brazil
- 5.3.3. Colombia
- 5.3.4. Chile
- 5.3.5. Rest of Latin America
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Mexico
- 5.4.2. Brazil
- 5.4.3. Colombia
- 5.4.4. Chile
- 5.4.5. Rest of Latin America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Mexico Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Insourced
- 6.1.2. Outsourced
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 6.2.1. Industrial Machinery and Automotive
- 6.2.2. Food and Beverage
- 6.2.3. Chemicals
- 6.2.4. Other End Users
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. Mexico
- 6.3.2. Brazil
- 6.3.3. Colombia
- 6.3.4. Chile
- 6.3.5. Rest of Latin America
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. Brazil Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Insourced
- 7.1.2. Outsourced
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 7.2.1. Industrial Machinery and Automotive
- 7.2.2. Food and Beverage
- 7.2.3. Chemicals
- 7.2.4. Other End Users
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. Mexico
- 7.3.2. Brazil
- 7.3.3. Colombia
- 7.3.4. Chile
- 7.3.5. Rest of Latin America
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. Colombia Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Insourced
- 8.1.2. Outsourced
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 8.2.1. Industrial Machinery and Automotive
- 8.2.2. Food and Beverage
- 8.2.3. Chemicals
- 8.2.4. Other End Users
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. Mexico
- 8.3.2. Brazil
- 8.3.3. Colombia
- 8.3.4. Chile
- 8.3.5. Rest of Latin America
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. Chile Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.1.1. Insourced
- 9.1.2. Outsourced
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 9.2.1. Industrial Machinery and Automotive
- 9.2.2. Food and Beverage
- 9.2.3. Chemicals
- 9.2.4. Other End Users
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.3.1. Mexico
- 9.3.2. Brazil
- 9.3.3. Colombia
- 9.3.4. Chile
- 9.3.5. Rest of Latin America
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10. Rest of Latin America Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10.1.1. Insourced
- 10.1.2. Outsourced
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 10.2.1. Industrial Machinery and Automotive
- 10.2.2. Food and Beverage
- 10.2.3. Chemicals
- 10.2.4. Other End Users
- 10.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 10.3.1. Mexico
- 10.3.2. Brazil
- 10.3.3. Colombia
- 10.3.4. Chile
- 10.3.5. Rest of Latin America
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 11. Brazil Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Argentina Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Mexico Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Peru Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Chile Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Rest of Latin America Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Competitive Analysis
- 17.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 17.2. Company Profiles
- 17.2.1 DB Schenker
- 17.2.1.1. Overview
- 17.2.1.2. Products
- 17.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.2 United Parchel Services (UPS)
- 17.2.2.1. Overview
- 17.2.2.2. Products
- 17.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.3 C H Robinson Worldwide Inc
- 17.2.3.1. Overview
- 17.2.3.2. Products
- 17.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.4 GEODIS
- 17.2.4.1. Overview
- 17.2.4.2. Products
- 17.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.5 Kuehne + Nagel International AG
- 17.2.5.1. Overview
- 17.2.5.2. Products
- 17.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.6 FedEx
- 17.2.6.1. Overview
- 17.2.6.2. Products
- 17.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.7 CEVA Logistics
- 17.2.7.1. Overview
- 17.2.7.2. Products
- 17.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.8 DHL Supply Chain
- 17.2.8.1. Overview
- 17.2.8.2. Products
- 17.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.9 Penske Logistics**List Not Exhaustive 6 3 Other Companies
- 17.2.9.1. Overview
- 17.2.9.2. Products
- 17.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.10 DSV
- 17.2.10.1. Overview
- 17.2.10.2. Products
- 17.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 17.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 17.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 17.2.1 DB Schenker
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Brazil Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Argentina Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Mexico Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Peru Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Chile Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Latin America Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 3.50%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market?
Key companies in the market include DB Schenker, United Parchel Services (UPS), C H Robinson Worldwide Inc, GEODIS, Kuehne + Nagel International AG, FedEx, CEVA Logistics, DHL Supply Chain, Penske Logistics**List Not Exhaustive 6 3 Other Companies, DSV.
3. What are the main segments of the Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market?
The market segments include Type, End User, 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?
Pharmaceutical Industry Demands Advanced Cold-Chain Services; E-commerce driving the cold chain logistics.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Growth in the Automotive Sector is Spearheading the Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Damaged Goods; Increasing Transportation Cost.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
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 4950, and USD 6800 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 "Latin America Contract Logistics Services 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 Latin America Contract Logistics Services 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 Latin America Contract Logistics Services Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Latin America Contract Logistics Services 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