Key Insights
The metal printing packaging market, valued at $54.96 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for aesthetically appealing and durable packaging across various industries. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.84% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant expansion of this market over the forecast period. Key drivers include the rising adoption of metal packaging for food and beverage products due to its superior barrier properties, extending shelf life and maintaining product quality. Furthermore, the growing preference for sustainable and recyclable packaging solutions is boosting market growth, as metal is infinitely recyclable. The shift towards on-demand printing and personalization within the packaging industry, facilitated by advancements in digital printing technologies, is also a contributing factor. Market segmentation reveals that offset lithography remains a dominant printing process, while flexography and digital printing are gaining traction due to their cost-effectiveness and versatility for shorter runs. Leading companies such as Ball Corporation and Crown Holdings Inc. are strategically investing in advanced printing technologies and expanding their product portfolios to meet evolving consumer demands. Geographic regions such as North America and Europe, already established markets, are expected to maintain significant market share, while the Asia Pacific region is poised for substantial growth due to its rapidly expanding consumer base and industrialization. Competitive pressures and the cost of raw materials represent potential restraints.
The market's growth trajectory is influenced by several factors. Increased consumer awareness of eco-friendly practices fuels the demand for recyclable metal packaging, further pushing market expansion. Innovations in printing technologies, such as enhanced color accuracy and improved efficiency, are creating opportunities for brands to create visually compelling and informative packaging. However, challenges include fluctuating metal prices and maintaining cost competitiveness against alternative packaging materials. Strategies focusing on sustainable practices, advanced printing capabilities, and targeted market segmentation will be critical for companies to succeed in this dynamic market. The market is witnessing increased collaboration between printing companies and packaging manufacturers to provide integrated and innovative packaging solutions. This collaborative approach enhances efficiency and reduces the overall time to market for new products, offering significant growth potential for the future.

Metal Printing Packaging Market: A Comprehensive Market Analysis (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Metal Printing Packaging Market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional dominance, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report offers invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategists seeking to navigate this dynamic market. The report analyzes the parent market of packaging and the child market of metal printing packaging, offering a nuanced perspective on market segmentation by printing process (Offset Lithography, Gravure, Flexography, Digital, Other Printing Technologies). The market size is projected in Million units.
Metal Printing Packaging Market Dynamics & Structure
The Metal Printing Packaging Market is characterized by moderate concentration, with several major players holding significant market share. Technological innovation, particularly in digital printing and sustainable materials, is a key driver. Stringent regulatory frameworks concerning recyclability and environmental impact are shaping market trends. Competitive pressures from alternative packaging materials (e.g., plastics, paperboard) exist, necessitating continuous innovation. The end-user demographics are diverse, spanning the food & beverage, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries. M&A activity has been relatively steady, with xx deals recorded between 2019 and 2024.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding xx% market share in 2024.
- Technological Innovation: Focus on digital printing for customization and reduced waste.
- Regulatory Landscape: Growing emphasis on recyclability and sustainable materials.
- Competitive Substitutes: Plastic and paper-based packaging pose significant competition.
- End-User Demographics: Diverse, encompassing food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care.
- M&A Activity: xx deals between 2019-2024, driven by expansion and technological access.
Metal Printing Packaging Market Growth Trends & Insights
The Metal Printing Packaging Market exhibited a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024), reaching a market size of xx Million units in 2024. This growth is attributed to increasing demand for sustainable and convenient packaging solutions. The adoption rate of digital printing technologies is accelerating, driven by benefits such as enhanced customization and reduced lead times. Consumer preference for aesthetically appealing and environmentally responsible packaging fuels market expansion. Technological disruptions, such as the introduction of innovative printing techniques, are expected to further propel growth. The market is projected to reach xx Million units by 2033, with a forecast CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). Market penetration of sustainable metal packaging is increasing steadily, contributing significantly to the overall market growth.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Metal Printing Packaging Market
North America currently holds the largest market share in the Metal Printing Packaging Market, driven by robust demand from the food & beverage and personal care sectors. Within this region, the United States is the dominant country. The Offset Lithography segment maintains a leading position in terms of market share due to its cost-effectiveness and suitability for high-volume production. Europe follows closely, with strong growth anticipated in emerging economies across Asia Pacific.
- North America: Strong demand from food and beverage sectors; leading market share.
- Europe: Significant market size, with growth driven by increasing regulatory focus on sustainability.
- Asia-Pacific: Emerging market with high growth potential due to rising disposable incomes and urbanization.
- Offset Lithography: Cost-effective and suitable for large-scale production; maintains largest market share.
- Gravure: High-quality printing for detailed images; significant application in luxury goods packaging.
- Flexography: Versatile and suitable for various substrates; strong growth in flexible packaging applications.
- Digital Printing: Growing adoption due to customization and shorter lead times.
Metal Printing Packaging Market Product Landscape
Metal printing packaging exhibits a diverse product landscape, featuring innovations in materials, designs, and printing technologies. The focus is on lightweight, durable, and aesthetically appealing packaging solutions. Performance metrics emphasize recyclability, printability, and barrier properties. Unique selling propositions include enhanced branding opportunities through customized designs and sustainable credentials aligned with growing environmental consciousness. Technological advancements include the integration of smart packaging features and the exploration of new printing techniques.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Metal Printing Packaging Market
Key Drivers:
- Growing demand for sustainable and recyclable packaging.
- Increasing preference for customized and aesthetically appealing packaging.
- Technological advancements in printing and material science.
- Expansion of the food & beverage and personal care industries.
Key Barriers & Challenges:
- High initial investment costs associated with advanced printing technologies.
- Competition from alternative packaging materials.
- Fluctuations in raw material prices.
- Regulatory hurdles regarding material composition and recyclability. These factors result in a xx% reduction in market expansion by 2030.
Emerging Opportunities in Metal Printing Packaging Market
- Growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
- Increasing adoption of digital printing for personalized and on-demand packaging.
- Expansion into new markets and applications, particularly in emerging economies.
- Development of smart packaging solutions with integrated functionalities.
Growth Accelerators in the Metal Printing Packaging Market Industry
Technological breakthroughs in digital printing and sustainable materials are key growth catalysts. Strategic partnerships between packaging manufacturers and brand owners are driving innovation and market penetration. Expansion into untapped markets and applications is providing further growth avenues. A focus on sustainable and recyclable solutions is fueling demand and enhancing the market's long-term prospects.
Key Players Shaping the Metal Printing Packaging Market Market
- Ball Corporation
- Hubergroup Deutschland GmbH
- CCL Container (CCL Industries Inc)
- Tonejet Limited
- Koenig & Bauer AG
- Crown Holdings Inc
- Envases Metalurgicos de Alava SA
- Toyo Seihan Co Ltd (Toyo Seikan Group Holdings Ltd)
Notable Milestones in Metal Printing Packaging Market Sector
- May 2021: Ball Corporation launched a first-of-its-kind Ball Aluminum Cup, promoting sustainability and reducing plastic waste.
- March 2020: Bierland partnered with Crown Holdings Inc. to switch to metal can packaging, demonstrating market adoption of sustainable solutions.
In-Depth Metal Printing Packaging Market Outlook
The Metal Printing Packaging Market is poised for significant growth, driven by technological innovations, sustainable packaging trends, and expanding end-user industries. Strategic partnerships, focused on expanding into new markets and developing innovative solutions, will further accelerate market expansion. The market presents lucrative opportunities for companies focused on sustainability, customization, and advanced printing technologies. The projected growth indicates a promising future for players who embrace innovation and meet the evolving needs of a conscious consumer base.
Metal Printing Packaging Market Segmentation
-
1. Printing Process
- 1.1. Offset Lithography
- 1.2. Gravure
- 1.3. Flexography
- 1.4. Digital
- 1.5. Other Printing Technologies
Metal Printing Packaging Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. North America
- 2. Europe
- 3. Asia Pacific
- 4. Latin America
- 5. Middle East and Africa

Metal Printing Packaging 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 4.84% 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. Rapid Evolution of Digital Print Technology
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Monitoring issues and lack of standardization
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Offset Lithography is Expected to Hold a Significant Market Growth
- 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. Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 5.1.1. Offset Lithography
- 5.1.2. Gravure
- 5.1.3. Flexography
- 5.1.4. Digital
- 5.1.5. Other Printing Technologies
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. Europe
- 5.2.3. Asia Pacific
- 5.2.4. Latin America
- 5.2.5. Middle East and Africa
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 6. North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 6.1.1. Offset Lithography
- 6.1.2. Gravure
- 6.1.3. Flexography
- 6.1.4. Digital
- 6.1.5. Other Printing Technologies
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 7. Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 7.1.1. Offset Lithography
- 7.1.2. Gravure
- 7.1.3. Flexography
- 7.1.4. Digital
- 7.1.5. Other Printing Technologies
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 8. Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 8.1.1. Offset Lithography
- 8.1.2. Gravure
- 8.1.3. Flexography
- 8.1.4. Digital
- 8.1.5. Other Printing Technologies
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 9. Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 9.1.1. Offset Lithography
- 9.1.2. Gravure
- 9.1.3. Flexography
- 9.1.4. Digital
- 9.1.5. Other Printing Technologies
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 10. Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 10.1.1. Offset Lithography
- 10.1.2. Gravure
- 10.1.3. Flexography
- 10.1.4. Digital
- 10.1.5. Other Printing Technologies
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Printing Process
- 11. North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1.
- 12. Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1.
- 13. Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 13.1.1.
- 14. Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 14.1.1.
- 15. Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 15.1.1.
- 16. Competitive Analysis
- 16.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 16.2. Company Profiles
- 16.2.1 Ball Corporation
- 16.2.1.1. Overview
- 16.2.1.2. Products
- 16.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.2 Hubergroup Deutschland GmbH
- 16.2.2.1. Overview
- 16.2.2.2. Products
- 16.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.3 CCL Container (CCL Industries Inc )
- 16.2.3.1. Overview
- 16.2.3.2. Products
- 16.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.4 Tonejet Limited
- 16.2.4.1. Overview
- 16.2.4.2. Products
- 16.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.5 Koenig & Bauer AG
- 16.2.5.1. Overview
- 16.2.5.2. Products
- 16.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.6 Crown Holdings Inc *List Not Exhaustive
- 16.2.6.1. Overview
- 16.2.6.2. Products
- 16.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.7 Envases Metalurgicos de Alava SA
- 16.2.7.1. Overview
- 16.2.7.2. Products
- 16.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.8 Toyo Seihan Co Ltd (Toyo Seikan Group Holdings Ltd)
- 16.2.8.1. Overview
- 16.2.8.2. Products
- 16.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.1 Ball Corporation
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: North America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Europe Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Asia Pacific Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 26: Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 27: Latin America Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 28: Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 29: Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Printing Process 2024 & 2032
- Figure 30: Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 31: Middle East and Africa Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Printing Process 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Printing Process 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Printing Process 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Printing Process 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Printing Process 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Printing Process 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Global Metal Printing Packaging Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Metal Printing Packaging Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.84%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Metal Printing Packaging Market?
Key companies in the market include Ball Corporation, Hubergroup Deutschland GmbH, CCL Container (CCL Industries Inc ), Tonejet Limited, Koenig & Bauer AG, Crown Holdings Inc *List Not Exhaustive, Envases Metalurgicos de Alava SA, Toyo Seihan Co Ltd (Toyo Seikan Group Holdings Ltd).
3. What are the main segments of the Metal Printing Packaging Market?
The market segments include Printing Process.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 54.96 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Rapid Evolution of Digital Print Technology.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Offset Lithography is Expected to Hold a Significant Market Growth.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Monitoring issues and lack of standardization.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
May 2021 - Ball Corporation launched a first-of-its-kind Ball Aluminum Cup that has the potential to advance sustainability and reduce plastic waste at gatherings irrespective of big and small. It will be available for purchase at major retailers in all 50 states across the U.S. Between May and June; the cups will be available for the first time in more than 18,000 food, drug, and mass retailers, including Kroger, Target, Albertsons, CVS, etc.
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 "Metal Printing Packaging 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 Metal Printing Packaging 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 Metal Printing Packaging Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Metal Printing Packaging 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