Key Insights
The United States Compound Feed Market is poised for significant expansion, projected to reach $63.351 billion by 2025. This growth is underpinned by a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.97% from 2019 to 2033, indicating sustained upward momentum. Key drivers fueling this expansion include the increasing demand for high-quality animal protein, driven by a growing global population and rising disposable incomes. Advancements in animal nutrition science, leading to the development of more efficient and specialized feed formulations, also play a crucial role. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on animal health and welfare, coupled with stricter regulations regarding livestock production, is prompting greater adoption of scientifically formulated compound feeds. The market is witnessing a strong trend towards value-added feed ingredients, such as prebiotics, probiotics, and essential nutrients, aimed at improving animal performance, immunity, and feed conversion ratios. The poultry and swine segments are expected to lead this demand due to their high production volumes and relatively shorter production cycles.
United States Compound Feed Market Market Size (In Billion)
Despite the promising outlook, certain restraints could temper growth. The escalating cost of raw materials, including grains and protein meals, due to factors like climate change and geopolitical uncertainties, presents a significant challenge. Stringent environmental regulations concerning animal waste management and nutrient runoff can also increase operational costs for feed manufacturers and livestock producers. However, the industry is actively exploring innovative solutions, such as the use of alternative protein sources and precision feeding technologies, to mitigate these restraints. The market is also seeing a surge in demand for compound feeds catering to specific animal life stages and health conditions, reflecting a growing sophistication in livestock management. The aquaculture segment, in particular, is emerging as a high-growth area, driven by the increasing global consumption of seafood and the need for sustainable aquaculture practices. The consolidation of feed manufacturers and the growing influence of major players like Cargill Inc. and Archer Daniels Midland are likely to shape the competitive landscape, fostering greater efficiency and innovation within the United States Compound Feed Market.
United States Compound Feed Market Company Market Share
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the United States Compound Feed Market, projecting a robust growth trajectory driven by increasing demand for high-quality animal nutrition and advancements in feed technology. The market is segmented by key ingredients and animal types, offering detailed insights into dominant segments and emerging trends. This report is essential for industry stakeholders, including feed manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, livestock producers, and investors, seeking to understand market dynamics, competitive landscape, and future opportunities within the US compound feed sector. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with the base year and estimated year set at 2025 and the forecast period covering 2025 to 2033. Historical data from 2019 to 2024 is also meticulously analyzed.
United States Compound Feed Market Market Concentration & Innovation
The United States Compound Feed Market exhibits a moderate to high level of market concentration, with a few key players holding significant market share. Major companies like Cargill Inc., Archer Daniels Midland, Nutreco, and Land O'Lakes Purina dominate the landscape, leveraging economies of scale, extensive distribution networks, and strong brand recognition. Innovation is a critical driver, fueled by the continuous pursuit of enhanced animal health, feed efficiency, and sustainability. Research and development efforts are focused on developing novel feed formulations, incorporating functional ingredients, and optimizing nutrient delivery systems. Regulatory frameworks, primarily governed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and state-level agencies, play a crucial role in ensuring feed safety and quality. These regulations influence product development, labeling, and manufacturing processes, promoting responsible industry practices. Product substitutes, while present in the form of raw feed ingredients, are increasingly being replaced by compound feeds due to their balanced nutritional profiles and ease of use. End-user trends highlight a growing demand for compound feeds that support optimal animal growth, productivity, and disease prevention, particularly in the poultry and ruminant sectors. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities are also prevalent, as larger companies seek to expand their market reach, acquire new technologies, and consolidate their positions. Notable M&A deals in recent years have seen multi-billion dollar valuations, underscoring the strategic importance of this market.
United States Compound Feed Market Industry Trends & Insights
The United States Compound Feed Market is poised for substantial expansion, driven by a confluence of technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and robust economic factors. The projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for the forecast period is estimated to be approximately 5.2% in terms of value, reaching an estimated market size of over $65 billion by 2033. This growth is significantly influenced by the increasing global demand for animal protein, necessitating higher efficiency and productivity in livestock farming. Technological disruptions are at the forefront of this evolution, with advancements in precision nutrition, feed additive technology, and smart farming solutions revolutionizing feed formulation and delivery. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to create more digestible and nutrient-dense feeds, leading to improved animal performance and reduced environmental impact. For instance, the incorporation of probiotics, prebiotics, and enzymes in compound feeds is gaining traction, enhancing gut health and nutrient absorption. Consumer preferences are also playing a pivotal role. Growing awareness about animal welfare, food safety, and the sustainability of food production is pushing the demand for compound feeds that contribute to healthier animals and more ethically produced meat, dairy, and eggs. This translates to a greater emphasis on traceable feed ingredients and transparent production processes. Competitive dynamics within the market are characterized by intense innovation and strategic partnerships. Key players are focusing on expanding their product portfolios, investing in advanced manufacturing facilities, and strengthening their supply chains to cater to diverse regional needs. Market penetration is high across major livestock-producing regions, with opportunities for further growth in niche segments and specialized feed applications. The integration of data analytics and artificial intelligence in feed management is also a rising trend, enabling more precise and data-driven feeding strategies that optimize costs and improve outcomes. The market is witnessing a shift towards more specialized compound feeds tailored to specific life stages, breeds, and production goals of animals, moving beyond generic formulations.
Dominant Markets & Segments in United States Compound Feed Market
The United States Compound Feed Market is characterized by the dominance of specific animal types and ingredient categories, reflecting the structure of the nation's livestock industry and the economic drivers influencing it.
Dominant Animal Type: Poultry The poultry segment is consistently the largest and most dynamic within the US compound feed market. Driven by high consumption rates of chicken and turkey, coupled with the relatively short production cycles and efficient feed conversion ratios of poultry, this sector commands a significant market share, estimated to be over 40% of the total compound feed market by value.
- Key Drivers:
- High Consumer Demand: Poultry is a staple protein source for American consumers, offering affordability and versatility.
- Efficient Production: Advances in breeding and management have made poultry production highly efficient, requiring optimized feed for maximum growth.
- Disease Management: Compound feeds with specific additives can enhance immune responses, reducing the need for antibiotics.
- Technological Integration: Precision feeding systems and automated production facilities in the poultry sector contribute to efficient compound feed utilization.
- Dominance Analysis: The sheer volume of poultry produced in the US, from broiler chickens to layer hens, necessitates a continuous and substantial supply of compound feed. The industry's reliance on scientifically formulated feeds to meet the stringent nutritional requirements for rapid growth and high egg production solidifies poultry's leading position. Economic policies supporting livestock production and a well-established supply chain for poultry feed ingredients further bolster this dominance.
- Key Drivers:
Dominant Ingredient: Cereals Cereals, including corn and soybean meal, constitute the largest share of compound feed ingredients by volume and value, accounting for an estimated 60% to 70% of the total feed formulation. Their prevalence is due to their availability, cost-effectiveness, and essential role as primary energy and protein sources.
- Key Drivers:
- Nutritional Value: Cereals provide essential carbohydrates for energy and a base for protein in animal diets.
- Availability and Affordability: The US is a leading producer of corn and soybeans, ensuring consistent supply and competitive pricing.
- Versatility: Cereals can be processed and incorporated into a wide range of compound feed formulations for various animal types.
- Technological Advancements in Grain Processing: Innovations in milling and processing enhance the digestibility and nutrient availability of cereals.
- Dominance Analysis: The foundational role of cereals in animal diets cannot be overstated. Their widespread cultivation across the US, supported by robust agricultural infrastructure and government subsidies, ensures a stable supply. The economic viability of compound feed production is heavily dependent on the cost and availability of cereal grains.
- Key Drivers:
Significant Segment: Swine The swine segment represents another substantial contributor to the US compound feed market, driven by the consistent demand for pork products. While not as large as poultry, swine feed represents an estimated 25% of the market share.
- Key Drivers:
- Pork Consumption: Pork remains a popular meat in the American diet.
- Genetics and Management: Advancements in swine genetics and farm management necessitate specialized compound feeds for optimal growth and reproductive performance.
- Feed Efficiency: The focus on improving feed conversion ratios in swine production makes precise compound feed formulations crucial for profitability.
- Dominance Analysis: The US hog industry is highly industrialized, with large-scale operations that rely on scientifically formulated compound feeds to maximize productivity and minimize disease outbreaks. The economic fluctuations in the pork market can influence the demand for swine feed, but its essential role in maintaining a productive herd ensures its continued significance.
- Key Drivers:
Growing Segment: Ruminants The ruminant segment, encompassing cattle (beef and dairy), is a vital part of the US agricultural landscape, contributing approximately 20% to the compound feed market. Dairy cattle, in particular, have specific and high nutritional demands met by specialized compound feeds.
- Key Drivers:
- Dairy Production: The demand for milk and dairy products drives the need for specialized dairy cattle feed.
- Beef Production: Compound feeds play a role in optimizing growth rates and meat quality in beef cattle.
- Forage Quality and Availability: Compound feeds supplement forages, especially during periods of low pasture availability or when forage quality is suboptimal.
- Dominance Analysis: While ruminants have access to forages, the efficiency and productivity of dairy operations and the finishing of beef cattle often depend on the strategic use of compound feeds. The focus on improving milk yield in dairy cows and maximizing weight gain in beef animals makes these feeds indispensable.
- Key Drivers:
Emerging Segment: Aquaculture The aquaculture segment, though currently smaller, is demonstrating significant growth potential. As the demand for sustainable seafood options rises, compound feed for farmed fish and shellfish is gaining importance.
- Key Drivers:
- Growing Demand for Seafood: Increasing consumer preference for seafood and concerns over wild-caught fish stocks.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Compound feeds are being developed to be more environmentally friendly and resource-efficient.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in feed formulations for various aquatic species are expanding the market.
- Dominance Analysis: While the market share is still developing, the aquaculture sector's growth trajectory points towards increasing importance in the coming years. Investments in research and development for specialized aquaculture feeds are expected to drive innovation and market penetration.
- Key Drivers:
United States Compound Feed Market Product Developments
Product development in the United States Compound Feed Market is characterized by a strong emphasis on enhanced nutritional profiles, improved digestibility, and the incorporation of functional ingredients. Companies are innovating to create compound feeds that promote optimal animal health, accelerate growth, and reduce the environmental footprint of livestock operations. Key trends include the development of amino acid-fortified feeds for poultry and swine, reducing crude protein levels while maintaining performance, thereby lowering nitrogen excretion. The integration of probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, and organic acids is a significant area of innovation, aiming to improve gut health, enhance nutrient absorption, and boost immune function in various animal types. Furthermore, the market is witnessing the development of specialized feeds tailored for specific life stages, breeds, and production goals, such as starter feeds for young animals or performance feeds for high-producing dairy cows. These product developments offer competitive advantages by enabling producers to achieve better animal welfare, increased productivity, and improved economic returns.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report provides a granular analysis of the United States Compound Feed Market, segmented across key categories to offer comprehensive insights.
Ingredient Segmentation: The market is analyzed by primary ingredients including Cereals, forming the backbone of energy and protein in feeds; Cakes & Meals, crucial sources of protein and fats; By-products, offering cost-effective nutrient sources; and Supplements, encompassing vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and additives that enhance feed efficacy and animal health.
Animal Type Segmentation: The report meticulously examines the market share and growth projections for Ruminants (dairy and beef cattle), Poultry (broilers, layers, turkeys), Swine, Aquaculture (farmed fish and shellfish), and Other Animal Types (horses, pets, etc.). Each segment's unique nutritional requirements, market dynamics, and growth potential are thoroughly explored. This segmentation allows for targeted strategic planning and investment decisions.
Key Drivers of United States Compound Feed Market Growth
Several key factors are propelling the growth of the United States Compound Feed Market. The escalating global demand for animal protein, driven by population growth and rising disposable incomes, necessitates increased efficiency and productivity in livestock farming, directly boosting the demand for compound feeds. Technological advancements in animal nutrition, including the development of precision feeding systems and innovative feed additives like probiotics and enzymes, are enhancing feed efficiency, animal health, and reducing environmental impact. Growing consumer awareness regarding animal welfare and food safety is also a significant driver, pushing the demand for high-quality, traceable compound feeds that contribute to healthier animals. Furthermore, government policies and initiatives supporting the agricultural sector and promoting sustainable farming practices indirectly fuel market expansion.
Challenges in the United States Compound Feed Market Sector
Despite its robust growth prospects, the United States Compound Feed Market faces several challenges. Volatility in raw material prices, particularly for key ingredients like corn and soybeans, can significantly impact production costs and profit margins for feed manufacturers. Stringent and evolving regulatory frameworks concerning feed safety, animal welfare, and environmental impact require continuous adaptation and investment in compliance. Supply chain disruptions, stemming from logistical complexities, weather events, or global trade dynamics, can affect the timely availability and cost of raw materials and finished products. Moreover, increasing competition from both domestic and international players, as well as the potential for feed ingredient substitution, presents ongoing competitive pressures that necessitate constant innovation and cost optimization.
Emerging Opportunities in United States Compound Feed Market
The United States Compound Feed Market presents several promising emerging opportunities. The growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly feed solutions, including those that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize waste, is opening new avenues for product development. Advances in biotechnology and genetics are paving the way for the creation of specialized compound feeds that enhance animal health and reduce reliance on antibiotics, aligning with consumer demand for healthier food products. The expanding aquaculture sector offers significant growth potential as the demand for farmed seafood continues to rise. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of digital technologies, such as AI-powered feed management systems and precision nutrition platforms, provides opportunities for greater efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and optimized feed utilization across all animal types.
Leading Players in the United States Compound Feed Market Market
- Cargill Inc.
- Archer Daniels Midland
- Nutreco
- Land O'Lakes Purina
- Alltech Inc.
- DeKalb Feeds
- Kent Feeds
- Heiskell & Co.
Key Developments in United States Compound Feed Market Industry
- 2024: Launch of novel feed additive incorporating plant-based proteins for enhanced amino acid profiles in swine feed.
- 2023: Acquisition of a specialty feed manufacturer by a major player to expand its offerings in the aquaculture segment.
- 2023: Introduction of a new line of antibiotic-free poultry feed formulations by a leading company, responding to market demand.
- 2022: Significant investment in R&D for precision nutrition technologies aimed at optimizing dairy cow feed efficiency.
- 2022: Strategic partnership established to develop sustainable feed ingredients from insect-based proteins.
- 2021: Expansion of manufacturing capacity for ruminant feed to meet increasing dairy production demands.
- 2020: Development and release of feed formulations fortified with immune-boosting supplements to combat emerging animal diseases.
Strategic Outlook for United States Compound Feed Market Market
The strategic outlook for the United States Compound Feed Market is overwhelmingly positive, driven by continuous innovation and the fundamental need for efficient animal protein production. Key growth catalysts include the ongoing demand for high-quality feed that supports animal health, performance, and sustainability. Investment in research and development will remain crucial for creating next-generation feed solutions, particularly those leveraging biotechnology and digital technologies for precision nutrition. The market's ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences for ethical and sustainable food production will be a significant determinant of future success. Strategic partnerships, M&A activities, and the expansion into niche or rapidly growing segments like aquaculture will further shape the competitive landscape and unlock new opportunities for growth and profitability.
United States Compound Feed Market Segmentation
-
1. Ingredient
- 1.1. Cereals
- 1.2. Cakes & Meals
- 1.3. By-products
- 1.4. Supplements
-
2. Animal Type
- 2.1. Ruminants
- 2.2. Poultry
- 2.3. Swine
- 2.4. Aquaculture
- 2.5. Other Animal Types
United States Compound Feed Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States
United States Compound Feed Market Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of United States Compound Feed Market
United States Compound Feed Market 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 5.97% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Objective
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Market Snapshot
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Market Drivers
- 3.2. Market Restrains
- 3.3. Market Trends
- 3.4. Market Opportunities
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.1.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.1.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.1.3. Threat of New Entrants
- 4.1.4. Threat of Substitutes
- 4.1.5. Competitive Rivalry
- 4.2. PESTEL analysis
- 4.3. BCG Analysis
- 4.3.1. Stars (High Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.2. Cash Cows (Low Growth, High Market Share)
- 4.3.3. Question Mark (High Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.3.4. Dogs (Low Growth, Low Market Share)
- 4.4. Ansoff Matrix Analysis
- 4.5. Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.6. Regulatory Landscape
- 4.7. Current Market Potential and Opportunity Assessment (TAM–SAM–SOM Framework)
- 4.8. RAX Analyst Note
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast 2021-2033
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Ingredient
- 5.1.1. Cereals
- 5.1.2. Cakes & Meals
- 5.1.3. By-products
- 5.1.4. Supplements
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal Type
- 5.2.1. Ruminants
- 5.2.2. Poultry
- 5.2.3. Swine
- 5.2.4. Aquaculture
- 5.2.5. Other Animal Types
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. United States
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Ingredient
- 6. United States Compound Feed Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2021-2033
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Ingredient
- 6.1.1. Cereals
- 6.1.2. Cakes & Meals
- 6.1.3. By-products
- 6.1.4. Supplements
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Animal Type
- 6.2.1. Ruminants
- 6.2.2. Poultry
- 6.2.3. Swine
- 6.2.4. Aquaculture
- 6.2.5. Other Animal Types
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Ingredient
- 7. Competitive Analysis
- 7.1. Company Profiles
- 7.1.1 Land O Lakes Purina
- 7.1.1.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.1.2. Products
- 7.1.1.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.1.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.2 Heiskell & Co
- 7.1.2.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.2.2. Products
- 7.1.2.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.2.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.3 Nutreco
- 7.1.3.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.3.2. Products
- 7.1.3.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.3.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.4 DeKalb Feeds
- 7.1.4.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.4.2. Products
- 7.1.4.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.4.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.5 Alltech Inc
- 7.1.5.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.5.2. Products
- 7.1.5.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.5.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.6 Archer Daniels Midland
- 7.1.6.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.6.2. Products
- 7.1.6.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.6.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.7 Cargill Inc
- 7.1.7.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.7.2. Products
- 7.1.7.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.7.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.8 Kent Feeds
- 7.1.8.1. Company Overview
- 7.1.8.2. Products
- 7.1.8.3. Company Financials
- 7.1.8.4. SWOT Analysis
- 7.1.1 Land O Lakes Purina
- 7.2. Market Entropy
- 7.2.1 Company's Key Areas Served
- 7.2.2 Recent Developments
- 7.3. Company Market Share Analysis 2025
- 7.3.1 Top 5 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 7.3.2 Top 3 Companies Market Share Analysis
- 7.4. List of Potential Customers
- 8. Research Methodology
List of Figures
- Figure 1: United States Compound Feed Market Revenue Breakdown (billion, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: United States Compound Feed Market Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: United States Compound Feed Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Ingredient 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: United States Compound Feed Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Animal Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: United States Compound Feed Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: United States Compound Feed Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Ingredient 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: United States Compound Feed Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Animal Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: United States Compound Feed Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the United States Compound Feed Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5.97%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the United States Compound Feed Market?
Key companies in the market include Land O Lakes Purina, Heiskell & Co, Nutreco, DeKalb Feeds, Alltech Inc, Archer Daniels Midland, Cargill Inc, Kent Feeds.
3. What are the main segments of the United States Compound Feed Market?
The market segments include Ingredient, Animal Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 63.351 billion as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increased Demand for Meat; Initiatives By the Key Players; Focus on Animal nutrition and Health.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increasing Compound Feed Production.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Shift Toward Vegan- Based Diet; Changing Raw Material Prices and Strict Government Rules to Restrict Market Growth.
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 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 billion.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "United States Compound Feed 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 United States Compound Feed 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 United States Compound Feed Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the United States Compound Feed 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