Key Insights
The global beverage caps and closures market is projected for substantial growth, with an estimated market size of 13.3 billion in the base year 2025. This market is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2025 to 2033. Key growth drivers include rising demand for convenient, tamper-evident packaging across diverse beverage segments, the increasing adoption of sustainable materials like recycled plastics and bio-based polymers, and the growing consumer preference for on-the-go and single-serve options. Innovations in closure technology, such as child-resistant and resealable caps, are expected to overcome challenges like raw material price volatility and regulatory compliance. The market is segmented by material (metal, plastic, others) and region, with Asia-Pacific poised for rapid expansion. The competitive landscape features multinational corporations and regional players, with strategic investments in R&D, partnerships, and M&A activity shaping the market.
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Market Size (In Billion)
The future of the beverage caps and closures market will be influenced by evolving consumer preferences, the widespread adoption of sustainable practices, and continuous technological advancements. The forecast period of 2025-2033 signals significant transformation and expansion within this dynamic industry.
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Company Market Share
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the global beverage caps and closures industry, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders, investors, and industry professionals. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 serving as the base and estimated year. The forecast period covers 2025-2033, and the historical period encompasses 2019-2024. The report uses Million as the unit for all values. Key players analyzed include Aptar Group Inc, Tetra Laval International, Pact Group, Ball Corporation, Global Closure Systems, Bericap GmbH & Co KG, Guala Closures Group, Crown Holdings Inc, Albea Group, Evergreen Packaging Inc, Berry Global Inc, Silgan Holdings Inc, and Amcor Ltd. However, this list is not exhaustive.
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Market Concentration & Innovation
The beverage caps and closures market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with a few major players commanding significant market share. While precise figures for individual market share are proprietary data (and thus unavailable for this description) , Aptar Group Inc, Ball Corporation, and Amcor Ltd are consistently recognized as leading players. Market concentration is influenced by factors like economies of scale, technological advancements, and brand recognition. Innovation in this sector is driven by the need for improved functionality (e.g., tamper-evident seals, resealable closures), sustainability (e.g., using recycled materials, reducing plastic usage), and enhanced consumer experience (e.g., innovative designs, easy-open mechanisms). Regulatory frameworks, particularly those concerning food safety and environmental regulations, play a crucial role in shaping market dynamics. The rise of eco-conscious consumers has led to increased demand for sustainable alternatives, creating opportunities for companies offering biodegradable and recyclable closures. Product substitutes, such as screw caps and crown closures, compete based on price, functionality and sustainability attributes. Recent M&A activities have involved transactions worth an estimated xx Million in the past five years, primarily driven by the pursuit of scale and technological capabilities.
- Market Concentration: Moderately Concentrated
- M&A Deal Value (2019-2024): xx Million
- Key Innovation Drivers: Sustainability, Functionality, Consumer Experience
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Industry Trends & Insights
The global beverage caps and closures market is experiencing significant growth, with a projected CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several factors, including the rising demand for packaged beverages globally, particularly in developing economies. Technological disruptions, such as advancements in materials science (lighter weight, stronger materials) and automation technologies (improved production efficiency and reduced costs), are transforming the industry. Consumer preferences are shifting towards more convenient and sustainable packaging options, driving demand for innovative closure designs. Intense competition among established players and new entrants is further shaping market dynamics. Market penetration of innovative closures, such as tethered caps and closures incorporating smart technologies, is gradually increasing.
Dominant Markets & Segments in Beverage Caps and Closures Industry
The Asia-Pacific region dominates the global beverage caps and closures market, driven by high population growth, increasing disposable income, and rapid urbanization. Within this region, China and India are key markets. The plastic segment holds the largest market share by material type, accounting for approximately xx% of the total market due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and lightweight nature. However, growing environmental concerns are pushing the market towards increasing adoption of metal and other sustainable materials.
Key Drivers for Asia-Pacific Dominance:
- Rapid economic growth and rising disposable incomes.
- Growing beverage consumption.
- Favorable government policies supporting the food and beverage industry.
Key Drivers for Plastic Segment Dominance:
- Cost-effectiveness.
- Versatility in design and functionality.
- Lightweight nature, leading to reduced transportation costs.
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Product Developments
Recent innovations include the development of tethered caps to address plastic pollution concerns, and the integration of smart technologies into closures for enhanced product traceability and tamper evidence. These developments are improving product safety, enhancing brand protection, and catering to consumer demand for sustainability and convenience. The competitive advantage lies in offering superior functionality, cost-effectiveness, and environmentally friendly solutions.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
The report segments the market by material type: Metal, Plastic, and Other Materials (Rubber, Cork). The Plastic segment is projected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, while the Metal segment maintains a significant share due to its robust nature. The Other Materials segment is experiencing modest growth, driven by niche applications. Each segment's competitive landscape is analyzed to provide comprehensive market dynamics.
- Metal: xx Million in 2025; xx% CAGR. Characterized by high durability and recyclability, facing competition from lighter and potentially more cost-effective alternatives.
- Plastic: xx Million in 2025; xx% CAGR. Dominated by various polymer types like PET and HDPE, subject to ongoing sustainability concerns.
- Other Materials (Rubber, Cork): xx Million in 2025; xx% CAGR. Niche applications in premium beverages and specialized products.
Key Drivers of Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Growth
Several factors are driving the industry's growth, including increasing demand for convenient packaging, growing beverage consumption, particularly in emerging economies, and technological advancements leading to the development of innovative, sustainable and functional closures. Favorable government regulations promoting food safety and environmental sustainability also play a significant role. Furthermore, the growing use of e-commerce and online ordering necessitates robust, tamper-evident packaging.
Challenges in the Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Sector
The industry faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, stringent environmental regulations resulting in increased compliance costs, and intense competition, particularly from low-cost producers. Supply chain disruptions, impacting the availability and cost of raw materials, also pose a significant threat. These factors can impact production costs and profitability negatively. For example, xx% increase in resin prices in 2022 led to an estimated xx Million increase in production costs across the industry.
Emerging Opportunities in Beverage Caps and Closures Industry
Emerging opportunities include the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions, creating avenues for biodegradable and compostable closures. Furthermore, integration of smart technologies (e.g., RFID tagging, NFC) to enhance product traceability and security presents a significant opportunity. The expansion into new markets, particularly in developing countries, offers lucrative potential for growth.
Leading Players in the Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Market
- Aptar Group Inc
- Tetra Laval International
- Pact Group
- Ball Corporation
- Global Closure Systems
- Bericap GmbH & Co KG
- Guala Closures Group
- Crown Holdings Inc
- Albea Group
- Evergreen Packaging Inc
- Berry Global Inc
- Silgan Holdings Inc
- Amcor Ltd
Key Developments in Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Industry
- 2022 Q4: Berry Global Inc. launches a new line of recyclable tethered caps.
- 2023 Q1: Crown Holdings Inc. announces a significant investment in a new manufacturing facility for sustainable closures.
- 2023 Q2: Amcor Ltd. acquires a smaller competitor, expanding its market share in the sustainable packaging segment. (Further details of the acquired company and transaction value are deemed proprietary and will not be disclosed in this description.)
Strategic Outlook for Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Market
The future of the beverage caps and closures market looks promising, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience, sustainability, and innovative packaging solutions. Companies that prioritize sustainable materials, innovative designs, and strong supply chain management will be well-positioned to capture significant market share. Technological advancements and strategic partnerships will play a critical role in driving future growth.
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Segmentation
-
1. Material
- 1.1. Metal
- 1.2. Plastic
- 1.3. Other Materials (Rubber, Cork)
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. US
- 1.2. Canada
-
2. Europe
- 2.1. Germany
- 2.2. UK
- 2.3. France
- 2.4. Rest of Europe
-
3. Asia Pacific
- 3.1. China
- 3.2. Japan
- 3.3. India
- 3.4. Rest of Asia Pacific
-
4. Latin America
- 4.1. Brazil
- 4.2. Mexico
- 4.3. Rest of Latin America
-
5. Middle East and Africa
- 5.1. UAE
- 5.2. Saudi Arabia
- 5.3. South Africa
- 5.4. Rest of Middle East
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of Beverage Caps and Closures Industry
Beverage Caps and Closures Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 4.6% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. ; Increasing Beverage Consumption in Developing Economies; Technological Advancements and Innovative Packaging Solutions
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. ; Stringent Regulations on the Usage of Plastic Bottles
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Plastic is Expected to Experience a Significant Market Share
- 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 Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 5.1.1. Metal
- 5.1.2. Plastic
- 5.1.3. Other Materials (Rubber, Cork)
- 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 Material
- 6. North America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 6.1.1. Metal
- 6.1.2. Plastic
- 6.1.3. Other Materials (Rubber, Cork)
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 7. Europe Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 7.1.1. Metal
- 7.1.2. Plastic
- 7.1.3. Other Materials (Rubber, Cork)
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 8. Asia Pacific Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 8.1.1. Metal
- 8.1.2. Plastic
- 8.1.3. Other Materials (Rubber, Cork)
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 9. Latin America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 9.1.1. Metal
- 9.1.2. Plastic
- 9.1.3. Other Materials (Rubber, Cork)
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 10. Middle East and Africa Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 10.1.1. Metal
- 10.1.2. Plastic
- 10.1.3. Other Materials (Rubber, Cork)
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2025
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Aptar Group Inc
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Tetra Laval International*List Not Exhaustive
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Pact Group
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 Ball Corporation
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 Global Closure Systems
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 Bericap GmbH & Co KG
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 Guala Closures Group
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 Crown Holdings Inc
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Albea Group
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 Evergreen Packaging Inc
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.11 Berry Global Inc
- 11.2.11.1. Overview
- 11.2.11.2. Products
- 11.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.12 Silgan Holdings Inc
- 11.2.12.1. Overview
- 11.2.12.2. Products
- 11.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.13 Amcor Ltd
- 11.2.13.1. Overview
- 11.2.13.2. Products
- 11.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 Aptar Group Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Breakdown (billion, %) by Region 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: North America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 3: North America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 4: North America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 5: North America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 6: Europe Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 7: Europe Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 8: Europe Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 9: Europe Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 10: Asia Pacific Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 11: Asia Pacific Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 12: Asia Pacific Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 13: Asia Pacific Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 14: Latin America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 15: Latin America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 16: Latin America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 17: Latin America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 18: Middle East and Africa Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 19: Middle East and Africa Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Material 2025 & 2033
- Figure 20: Middle East and Africa Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 21: Middle East and Africa Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Material 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Material 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: US Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: Canada Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Material 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: Germany Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: UK Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: France Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Material 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: China Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Japan Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: India Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Rest of Asia Pacific Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 19: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Material 2020 & 2033
- Table 20: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 21: Brazil Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 22: Mexico Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 23: Rest of Latin America Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 24: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Material 2020 & 2033
- Table 25: Global Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 26: UAE Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 27: Saudi Arabia Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 28: South Africa Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 29: Rest of Middle East Beverage Caps and Closures Industry Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Beverage Caps and Closures Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.6%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Beverage Caps and Closures Industry?
Key companies in the market include Aptar Group Inc, Tetra Laval International*List Not Exhaustive, Pact Group, Ball Corporation, Global Closure Systems, Bericap GmbH & Co KG, Guala Closures Group, Crown Holdings Inc, Albea Group, Evergreen Packaging Inc, Berry Global Inc, Silgan Holdings Inc, Amcor Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the Beverage Caps and Closures Industry?
The market segments include Material.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 13.3 billion as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
; Increasing Beverage Consumption in Developing Economies; Technological Advancements and Innovative Packaging Solutions.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Plastic is Expected to Experience a Significant Market Share.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
; Stringent Regulations on the Usage of Plastic Bottles.
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 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 billion.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Beverage Caps and Closures Industry," 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 Beverage Caps and Closures Industry 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 Beverage Caps and Closures Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Beverage Caps and Closures Industry, 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