Key Insights
The European botanical supplements market, valued at approximately €XX million in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, projected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.70% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Increasing consumer awareness of the benefits of natural and holistic health solutions, coupled with a rising prevalence of chronic diseases like cardiovascular issues and digestive problems, fuels demand for effective and safe alternatives to conventional medicine. The market's popularity is further amplified by the growing trend towards preventative healthcare and a preference for natural ingredients over synthetic pharmaceuticals. Germany, France, the UK, and Italy represent significant market segments within Europe, reflecting strong consumer bases and established distribution networks. The diverse product forms—powders, capsules, tablets, and others—cater to various consumer preferences and health needs. While online sales channels are increasingly significant, traditional pharmacies and supermarkets also remain substantial distribution hubs. Competition within the market is intense, with both established multinational players like GNC Holdings and NOW Foods, and smaller, specialized companies like KLAIRE LABS and Himalaya Wellness Latvia SIA, vying for market share. This competitive landscape fosters innovation and a wide range of product offerings.
However, market growth isn't without its challenges. Regulatory hurdles related to the standardization and efficacy of botanical supplements pose a potential restraint. Consumer concerns regarding product authenticity and quality control also need to be addressed to build and maintain trust. Furthermore, the fluctuating prices of raw materials and potential supply chain disruptions could impact production costs and overall market stability. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for the European botanical supplements market remains positive, driven by the consistent increase in health-conscious consumers and a burgeoning wellness industry. Companies focusing on product quality, transparency, and effective marketing strategies are best positioned to capitalize on this growth opportunity. Expansion into underpenetrated segments and regions within Europe presents further opportunities for market participants.

Europe Botanical Supplements Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Europe Botanical Supplements Market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. With a detailed study period spanning 2019-2033 (Base Year: 2025, Forecast Period: 2025-2033), this report unveils the market's dynamics, trends, and future potential. The market size is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, showcasing significant growth opportunities.
Europe Botanical Supplements Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The European botanical supplements market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with several key players holding significant market share. Market concentration is influenced by factors such as brand recognition, distribution network strength, and innovative product portfolios. Innovation is a primary driver, fueled by consumer demand for functional and specialized supplements, leading to continuous product development and diversification. Stringent regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning ingredient safety and labeling, shape the market dynamics. Competition from synthetic supplements and traditional medicine presents alternative options. End-user trends towards health and wellness, coupled with increasing awareness of the benefits of natural ingredients, significantly impact market growth. M&A activities have been moderate, with a reported xx M&A deals in the historical period (2019-2024), indicating strategic consolidation within the sector. Major players are focusing on expanding their product lines and enhancing their distribution networks to capture a larger market share. The market share held by the top 5 players in 2024 was approximately xx%.
Europe Botanical Supplements Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The European botanical supplements market is experiencing robust growth, projected to exhibit a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is propelled by several factors, including the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, increasing consumer awareness of the benefits of natural health solutions, and expanding online retail channels. Technological advancements in extraction techniques and formulation are leading to superior product quality and efficacy. Consumer preferences are shifting towards organic, sustainable, and ethically sourced supplements. Competitive dynamics are intense, with companies focusing on product differentiation, brand building, and strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge. Market penetration of botanical supplements is estimated at xx% in 2025, poised for considerable expansion. The increasing adoption of personalized nutrition plans also boosts this market segment.

Leading Markets & Segments in Europe Botanical Supplements Market
The German and UK markets currently dominate the European botanical supplements market, driven by strong consumer demand and well-established distribution networks. Other key markets include France, Italy, and Spain.
Key Drivers for Dominant Regions:
- Germany: Strong regulatory framework, high consumer spending on health and wellness, established distribution channels.
- UK: Large and affluent consumer base, robust online retail infrastructure, high health consciousness.
Segment Analysis:
- By Form: Capsules and tablets currently hold the largest market share, driven by convenience and ease of consumption. However, the powder segment is showing significant growth, driven by the increasing popularity of DIY supplements and the ability to easily incorporate them into food and beverages.
- By Distribution Channel: Online stores are experiencing rapid growth, offering convenience and a wider product selection. Pharmacies/drug stores remain a significant channel, benefiting from consumer trust and professional advice. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are increasingly stocking botanical supplements, driven by rising consumer demand.
Europe Botanical Supplements Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations focus on enhanced bioavailability, targeted formulations for specific health conditions, and sustainable sourcing practices. Companies are leveraging technological advancements in extraction methods to improve the efficacy and purity of their products. The market is witnessing a surge in personalized supplement blends tailored to individual needs and lifestyles. This is leading to new product applications catering to diverse health concerns, reflecting a broader market fit.
Key Drivers of Europe Botanical Supplements Market Growth
Several factors are driving the growth of the European botanical supplements market. Firstly, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular ailments is fueling demand for natural health solutions. Secondly, increasing consumer awareness of the benefits of preventative healthcare, coupled with a preference for natural ingredients, propels market expansion. Finally, favorable regulatory environments in certain European countries and the increasing availability of online channels are significantly contributing to market growth.
Challenges in the Europe Botanical Supplements Market Market
The market faces several challenges, including stringent regulatory compliance requirements which can be costly and time-consuming. Supply chain disruptions can impact product availability and pricing. Intense competition from established players and new entrants puts pressure on profit margins. Furthermore, maintaining consistent product quality and ensuring authenticity are crucial for building consumer trust.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Botanical Supplements Market
The market presents significant growth opportunities fueled by ongoing technological breakthroughs. Strategic partnerships between supplement manufacturers and healthcare providers, aimed at integrating botanical supplements into personalized wellness plans, hold immense potential. Expansion into emerging markets within Europe and the development of innovative product formulations will drive long-term growth.
Leading Players in the Europe Botanical Supplements Market Sector
- Whitewall GmbH
- Hawlik
- Himalaya Wellness Latvia SIA
- NOW Foods
- Natures plus
- GNC Holdings
- Gaia Herbs Farm
- Zein Pharma
- Dr Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co KG (Nature's Way Products LLC)
- KLAIRE LABS
Key Milestones in Europe Botanical Supplements Market Industry
- August 2022: Stada's Natures Aid subsidiary launched a children's supplement range in the UK, expanding the market to a new demographic.
- May 2022: FutureCeuticals launched FruiteX-B, a mineral complex for joint health, expanding product offerings in the joint health segment.
- March 2022: Cymbiotika launched an e-commerce store in the UK, enhancing online distribution channels and market accessibility.
Strategic Outlook for Europe Botanical Supplements Market Market
The future of the European botanical supplements market is bright, driven by increasing consumer health awareness, favorable regulatory environments, and technological advancements. Companies that invest in research and development, focus on product differentiation, and leverage effective marketing strategies will be best positioned for success. The market's potential lies in tailored solutions, sustainable sourcing, and further expansion into online channels.
Europe Botanical Supplements Market Segmentation
-
1. Form
- 1.1. Powder
- 1.2. Capsules
- 1.3. Tablets
- 1.4. Other Forms
-
2. Distibution Channel
- 2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 2.3. Online Stores
- 2.4. Other Distribution Channels
Europe Botanical Supplements Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United Kingdom
- 2. Germany
- 3. Spain
- 4. France
- 5. Italy
- 6. Russia
- 7. Rest of Europe

Europe Botanical Supplements 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 7.70% 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. Increasing Prevalence of Obesity; Growing Number of Fitness Enthusiasts or Health-Conscious Consumers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Penetration of Counterfeit Products
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Escalating Consumer Investment In Preventive Healthcare Products
- 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. Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 5.1.1. Powder
- 5.1.2. Capsules
- 5.1.3. Tablets
- 5.1.4. Other Forms
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 5.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 5.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 5.2.3. Online Stores
- 5.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. United Kingdom
- 5.3.2. Germany
- 5.3.3. Spain
- 5.3.4. France
- 5.3.5. Italy
- 5.3.6. Russia
- 5.3.7. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 6. United Kingdom Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 6.1.1. Powder
- 6.1.2. Capsules
- 6.1.3. Tablets
- 6.1.4. Other Forms
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 6.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 6.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 6.2.3. Online Stores
- 6.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 7. Germany Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 7.1.1. Powder
- 7.1.2. Capsules
- 7.1.3. Tablets
- 7.1.4. Other Forms
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 7.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 7.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 7.2.3. Online Stores
- 7.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 8. Spain Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 8.1.1. Powder
- 8.1.2. Capsules
- 8.1.3. Tablets
- 8.1.4. Other Forms
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 8.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 8.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 8.2.3. Online Stores
- 8.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 9. France Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 9.1.1. Powder
- 9.1.2. Capsules
- 9.1.3. Tablets
- 9.1.4. Other Forms
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 9.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 9.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 9.2.3. Online Stores
- 9.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 10. Italy Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 10.1.1. Powder
- 10.1.2. Capsules
- 10.1.3. Tablets
- 10.1.4. Other Forms
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 10.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 10.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 10.2.3. Online Stores
- 10.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 11. Russia Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 11.1.1. Powder
- 11.1.2. Capsules
- 11.1.3. Tablets
- 11.1.4. Other Forms
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 11.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 11.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 11.2.3. Online Stores
- 11.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 12. Rest of Europe Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 12.1.1. Powder
- 12.1.2. Capsules
- 12.1.3. Tablets
- 12.1.4. Other Forms
- 12.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distibution Channel
- 12.2.1. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 12.2.2. Pharmacies/ Drug Stores
- 12.2.3. Online Stores
- 12.2.4. Other Distribution Channels
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Form
- 13. Germany Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. France Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Italy Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. United Kingdom Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Netherlands Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Sweden Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19. Rest of Europe Europe Botanical Supplements Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 20. Competitive Analysis
- 20.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 20.2. Company Profiles
- 20.2.1 Whitewall GmbH
- 20.2.1.1. Overview
- 20.2.1.2. Products
- 20.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.2 Hawlik
- 20.2.2.1. Overview
- 20.2.2.2. Products
- 20.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.3 Himalaya Wellness Latvia SIA
- 20.2.3.1. Overview
- 20.2.3.2. Products
- 20.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.4 NOW Foods
- 20.2.4.1. Overview
- 20.2.4.2. Products
- 20.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.5 Natures plus
- 20.2.5.1. Overview
- 20.2.5.2. Products
- 20.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.6 GNC Holdings
- 20.2.6.1. Overview
- 20.2.6.2. Products
- 20.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.7 Gaia Herbs Farm
- 20.2.7.1. Overview
- 20.2.7.2. Products
- 20.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.8 Zein Pharma
- 20.2.8.1. Overview
- 20.2.8.2. Products
- 20.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.9 Dr Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co KG (Nature's Way Products LLC )*List Not Exhaustive
- 20.2.9.1. Overview
- 20.2.9.2. Products
- 20.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.10 KLAIRE LABS
- 20.2.10.1. Overview
- 20.2.10.2. Products
- 20.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.1 Whitewall GmbH
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Form 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distibution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Botanical Supplements Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Botanical Supplements Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 7.70%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Botanical Supplements Market?
Key companies in the market include Whitewall GmbH, Hawlik, Himalaya Wellness Latvia SIA, NOW Foods, Natures plus, GNC Holdings, Gaia Herbs Farm, Zein Pharma, Dr Willmar Schwabe GmbH & Co KG (Nature's Way Products LLC )*List Not Exhaustive, KLAIRE LABS.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Botanical Supplements Market?
The market segments include Form, Distibution Channel.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing Prevalence of Obesity; Growing Number of Fitness Enthusiasts or Health-Conscious Consumers.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Escalating Consumer Investment In Preventive Healthcare Products.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Penetration of Counterfeit Products.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In August 2022, Stada's Natures Aid subsidiary launched the children's supplement range in the United Kingdom. It adds a new, fun line of children's vitamin/mineral supplement (VMS) products to its portfolio.
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 "Europe Botanical Supplements 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 Europe Botanical Supplements 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 Europe Botanical Supplements Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Botanical Supplements 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