Key Insights
The Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging market, valued at $32.91 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the region's burgeoning manufacturing and industrial sectors. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.67% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant expansion, fueled by increasing demand for efficient and safe transportation and storage of goods across diverse industries like chemicals, food and beverages, and construction materials. This growth is further bolstered by rising e-commerce activities demanding reliable packaging solutions and a growing preference for sustainable and recyclable materials. Key market players, including Schutz Container Systems, Pyramid Technoplast, and Greif Inc., are strategically investing in innovation and capacity expansion to meet this escalating demand, while simultaneously addressing evolving consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging options. The market is segmented by material type (plastic, metal, fiber), packaging type (drums, IBCs, containers), and end-use industry, offering diverse opportunities for market participants. Competitive pressures remain significant, necessitating continuous product development and efficient supply chain management for sustained market share.
The market’s expansion is expected to be influenced by several factors. Government initiatives promoting sustainable packaging practices and regulations aimed at improving supply chain efficiency will significantly impact growth. Furthermore, the ongoing trend of outsourcing logistics and supply chain management to third-party providers will stimulate demand for standardized and reliable rigid bulk packaging. However, fluctuating raw material prices and potential economic downturns could pose challenges. The market's future trajectory will depend on the effective management of these challenges alongside the continued adoption of innovative packaging solutions that cater to the evolving needs of industries and consumers in the Asia-Pacific region. Geographical variations within the region, influenced by economic growth rates and infrastructural development, will also play a crucial role in shaping regional market dynamics.

Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging market, offering crucial insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. With a focus on market dynamics, growth trends, and key players, this report covers the period from 2019 to 2033, using 2025 as the base year. The report projects a market size of xx Million units by 2033. The study encompasses various segments within the parent market (Rigid Bulk Packaging) and dives into specific child markets within the Asia-Pacific region, providing a granular view of market opportunities.
Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Market Dynamics & Structure
This section analyzes the competitive landscape, technological advancements, regulatory environment, and market trends within the Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging industry. We examine market concentration, identifying key players and their respective market shares. The report also assesses the impact of technological innovations, regulatory frameworks (including environmental regulations impacting plastics), the availability of competitive substitutes, and end-user demographics on market growth. Further, we explore mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities, quantifying deal volumes and analyzing their impact on market consolidation.
- Market Concentration: The Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with the top five players holding an estimated xx% market share in 2025.
- Technological Innovation: Significant advancements in materials science, automation, and sustainable packaging solutions are driving innovation. However, high initial investment costs present a barrier to entry for smaller players.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent environmental regulations across various countries in the Asia-Pacific region are influencing packaging design and material selection, pushing adoption of recycled and sustainable materials.
- Competitive Substitutes: Alternatives like flexible packaging and reusable containers pose a competitive threat, necessitating continuous innovation in rigid bulk packaging solutions.
- M&A Activity: The historical period (2019-2024) saw xx M&A deals, primarily focused on expanding geographical reach and product portfolios. This trend is expected to continue during the forecast period.
Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Growth Trends & Insights
This section delves into the historical and projected growth trajectory of the Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging market. Using detailed data analysis, we examine market size evolution, adoption rates across various segments, and the impact of technological disruptions and consumer behavior shifts. Key metrics such as Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) and market penetration are provided to offer a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics. The robust growth is driven by factors like increasing industrialization, rising e-commerce activities, and growing demand for efficient and safe product transportation.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging
This section identifies the leading regions and countries driving market growth within the Asia-Pacific region, analyzing factors like economic policies, infrastructure development, and consumer preferences. We examine market share, growth potential, and dominant segments within each region/country, providing a detailed overview of their contribution to overall market expansion.
- Key Drivers: Rapid industrialization in countries like China and India, coupled with supportive government policies promoting manufacturing and infrastructure development, are key growth drivers.
- Dominant Regions: China and India are projected to remain the dominant markets due to their large manufacturing bases and expanding consumer markets. Other significant markets include Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Product Landscape
This section details the diverse range of rigid bulk packaging products available in the Asia-Pacific market. We analyze product innovations, applications across various industries, and performance metrics. This includes highlighting unique selling propositions (USPs) such as enhanced durability, improved sustainability, and customized designs to cater to specific industry needs. Technological advancements such as smart packaging solutions and integration of tracking technologies are also discussed.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging
This section identifies the primary growth drivers and constraints facing the Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging market.
Key Drivers:
- Rising E-commerce: Increased online shopping fuels demand for robust packaging.
- Industrial Growth: Expansion in manufacturing necessitates efficient bulk packaging solutions.
- Government Initiatives: Policies promoting sustainable packaging are driving innovation.
Challenges & Restraints:
- Fluctuating Raw Material Prices: Impacting production costs and profitability. Estimated impact on 2025 market growth: xx%.
- Stringent Environmental Regulations: Increasing pressure to adopt sustainable materials and reduce plastic waste.
- Intense Competition: Pressure from established and emerging players.
Emerging Opportunities in Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging
This section explores emerging opportunities within the Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging market.
- Sustainable Packaging Solutions: Growing demand for eco-friendly materials and designs.
- Smart Packaging: Integration of technology for enhanced traceability and security.
- Specialized Packaging: Meeting the specific needs of emerging industries (e.g., pharmaceuticals, food).
Growth Accelerators in the Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Industry
Technological breakthroughs in materials science, automation, and sustainable packaging are driving market expansion. Strategic partnerships between packaging manufacturers and end-users are fostering innovation and improving supply chain efficiency. Market expansion strategies, including entering new geographical areas and diversifying product offerings, are also crucial growth accelerators.
Key Players Shaping the Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Market
- SCHUTZ Container Systems (Shanghai) Co Ltd
- Pyramid Technoplast Ltd
- Kodama Plastics Co Ltd
- Greif Inc
- Mauser Packaging Solutions
- Manock Industry Co LTD
- Multipac Pty Ltd
- ABCD Drums & Barrels Industries
- Industrial Engineering Corporation
- Yangzhou United Packaging Co Ltd
- Exel Plastech Co Ltd
- Time Technoplast Ltd
- TPL Plastech Limited
- List Not Exhaustive
Notable Milestones in Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Sector
- May 2023: Berry Global commences construction of a new manufacturing facility and Global Centre of Excellence (COPE) in India, focused on ISCC Plus accreditation for sustainable healthcare packaging.
- May 2023: Lyondell Basell and Shakti Plastic Industries partner to build India's largest mechanical rigid plastic recycling plant (55,000 tons/year capacity), expected to commence operations by late 2024.
In-Depth Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Market Outlook
The Asia-Pacific rigid bulk packaging market is poised for substantial growth, driven by continuous technological advancements, rising demand from diverse industries, and a growing focus on sustainable packaging solutions. Strategic partnerships, expansion into untapped markets, and innovation in materials and designs will shape the future of the industry, creating significant opportunities for market players. The market is projected to witness strong growth, with a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033).
Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Segmentation
-
1. Material
- 1.1. Plastic
- 1.2. Metal
- 1.3. Wood
- 1.4. Other Materials
-
2. Product
- 2.1. Industrial Bulk Containers
- 2.2. Drums
- 2.3. Pails
- 2.4. Bulk Boxes
- 2.5. Other Bulk Containers
-
3. End-user Industry
- 3.1. Food
- 3.2. Beverage
- 3.3. Industrial
- 3.4. Pharmaceutical and Chemical
- 3.5. Other End-user Industries
Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Asia Pacific
- 1.1. China
- 1.2. Japan
- 1.3. South Korea
- 1.4. India
- 1.5. Australia
- 1.6. New Zealand
- 1.7. Indonesia
- 1.8. Malaysia
- 1.9. Singapore
- 1.10. Thailand
- 1.11. Vietnam
- 1.12. Philippines

Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging 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 3.67% 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 4.; Consisting Rise in the Construction Activities in the Asia Pacific Region4.; Robust Demand from the Pharmaceutical
- 3.2.2 Food and Beverage Sector
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1 4.; Consisting Rise in the Construction Activities in the Asia Pacific Region4.; Robust Demand from the Pharmaceutical
- 3.3.2 Food and Beverage Sector
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Demand From the Pharmaceutical and Chemical Industry is Expected to Drive 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. Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 5.1.1. Plastic
- 5.1.2. Metal
- 5.1.3. Wood
- 5.1.4. Other Materials
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product
- 5.2.1. Industrial Bulk Containers
- 5.2.2. Drums
- 5.2.3. Pails
- 5.2.4. Bulk Boxes
- 5.2.5. Other Bulk Containers
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 5.3.1. Food
- 5.3.2. Beverage
- 5.3.3. Industrial
- 5.3.4. Pharmaceutical and Chemical
- 5.3.5. Other End-user Industries
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material
- 6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 6.2. Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 SCHUTZ Container Systems (Shanghai) Co Ltd
- 6.2.1.1. Overview
- 6.2.1.2. Products
- 6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.2 Pyramid Technoplast Ltd
- 6.2.2.1. Overview
- 6.2.2.2. Products
- 6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.3 Kodama Plastics Co Ltd
- 6.2.3.1. Overview
- 6.2.3.2. Products
- 6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.4 Greif Inc
- 6.2.4.1. Overview
- 6.2.4.2. Products
- 6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.5 Mauser Packaging Solutions
- 6.2.5.1. Overview
- 6.2.5.2. Products
- 6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.6 Manock Industry Co LTD
- 6.2.6.1. Overview
- 6.2.6.2. Products
- 6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.7 Multipac Pty Ltd
- 6.2.7.1. Overview
- 6.2.7.2. Products
- 6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.8 ABCD Drums & Barrels Industries
- 6.2.8.1. Overview
- 6.2.8.2. Products
- 6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.9 Industrial Engineering Corporation
- 6.2.9.1. Overview
- 6.2.9.2. Products
- 6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.10 Yangzhou United Packaging Co Ltd
- 6.2.10.1. Overview
- 6.2.10.2. Products
- 6.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.11 Exel Plastech Co Ltd
- 6.2.11.1. Overview
- 6.2.11.2. Products
- 6.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.12 Time Technoplast Ltd
- 6.2.12.1. Overview
- 6.2.12.2. Products
- 6.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.13 TPL Plastech Limited*List Not Exhaustive
- 6.2.13.1. Overview
- 6.2.13.2. Products
- 6.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.1 SCHUTZ Container Systems (Shanghai) Co Ltd
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by Material 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by Material 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by Product 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by Product 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by Material 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by Material 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by Product 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by Product 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume Billion Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: China Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: China Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Japan Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Japan Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: South Korea Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: South Korea Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: India Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: India Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Australia Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Australia Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: New Zealand Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: New Zealand Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Indonesia Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Indonesia Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Malaysia Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Malaysia Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Singapore Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Singapore Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Thailand Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Thailand Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Vietnam Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: Vietnam Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Philippines Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Philippines Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging Volume (Billion) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging?
The projected CAGR is approximately 3.67%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging?
Key companies in the market include SCHUTZ Container Systems (Shanghai) Co Ltd, Pyramid Technoplast Ltd, Kodama Plastics Co Ltd, Greif Inc, Mauser Packaging Solutions, Manock Industry Co LTD, Multipac Pty Ltd, ABCD Drums & Barrels Industries, Industrial Engineering Corporation, Yangzhou United Packaging Co Ltd, Exel Plastech Co Ltd, Time Technoplast Ltd, TPL Plastech Limited*List Not Exhaustive.
3. What are the main segments of the Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging?
The market segments include Material, Product, End-user Industry.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 32.91 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Consisting Rise in the Construction Activities in the Asia Pacific Region4.; Robust Demand from the Pharmaceutical. Food and Beverage Sector.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Demand From the Pharmaceutical and Chemical Industry is Expected to Drive the Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Consisting Rise in the Construction Activities in the Asia Pacific Region4.; Robust Demand from the Pharmaceutical. Food and Beverage Sector.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
May 2023: Berry Global launched the construction of a new manufacturing facility and Global Centre of Excellence (COPE) in India. The new facility was to receive accreditation for the ISCC (International Sustainability & Carbon Certificate) Plus, which was expected to enable Berry Global to market healthcare clients’ approved packaging and rigid plastic components and to support a circular economy approach based on improved recycling and mass balancing.May 2023: Lyondell Basell and Shakti Plastic Industries entered a strategic partnership to create an automatic plastic recycling facility in India. The plant is expected to be able to handle rigid packaging waste from post-consumer use and will be able to produce around 55,000 tons/year of recycled polyester and polypropylene. This would make the facility India's biggest mechanical rigid plastic recycling plant when it starts up around the end of 2024.
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 and volume, measured in Billion.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging," 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 Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging 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 Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Asia-Pacific Rigid Bulk Packaging, 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