Key Insights
The North America Bakery Products Market is poised for substantial growth, projected to reach an impressive USD 126.61 billion in 2025. This expansion is fueled by a CAGR of 4.28% over the forecast period, indicating sustained momentum in consumer demand for a wide array of baked goods. Key drivers of this growth include the increasing consumer preference for convenient and ready-to-eat food options, a rising demand for artisanal and premium bakery products, and the growing influence of health-conscious trends leading to the development of healthier alternatives like whole-grain, gluten-free, and low-sugar bakery items. The market is characterized by evolving consumer tastes and a dynamic retail landscape, with online channels emerging as a significant avenue for sales and accessibility.
North America Bakery Products Market Market Size (In Billion)
The market's robust trajectory is further supported by a diverse product segmentation. Cakes and pastries continue to be popular choices, while biscuits and bread remain staples. The "Others" category, likely encompassing specialized products and newer innovations, also contributes to market vitality. Distribution channels are undergoing a transformation, with supermarkets and hypermarkets retaining their dominance, but specialist stores and online retailers experiencing notable growth. In terms of geography, the United States represents the largest share, followed by Canada and Mexico, with the "Rest of North America" also presenting opportunities for expansion. Key players such as Grupo Bimbo, Mondelez International, and General Mills are actively shaping market trends through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and expanding their distribution networks to capture a larger market share.
North America Bakery Products Market Company Market Share
Unlock critical insights into the dynamic North America Bakery Products Market with this in-depth report. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a base and estimated year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025–2033, this report provides a granular analysis of market size, trends, and opportunities. The North American bakery market, valued in the hundreds of billions, is experiencing robust growth driven by evolving consumer preferences, innovative product development, and strategic expansions. This report is an indispensable resource for industry stakeholders, including manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors seeking to capitalize on the substantial opportunities within this thriving sector.
North America Bakery Products Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The North America Bakery Products Market is characterized by a moderately consolidated landscape, with a few major players holding significant market share. Innovation is a key driver, fueled by the demand for healthier options, convenient formats, and indulgent treats. Regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning food safety and labeling, play a crucial role in shaping product development and market entry. Product substitutes, such as healthier snack alternatives and home-baking ingredients, present a competitive challenge, necessitating continuous product differentiation. End-user trends are increasingly leaning towards plant-based options, gluten-free alternatives, and products with functional health benefits. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities are prevalent as companies seek to expand their product portfolios, geographical reach, and market presence. For instance, in the historical period (2019-2024), the M&A deal count averaged between 5-8 annually, with an estimated market share concentration of approximately 60% held by the top five companies.
North America Bakery Products Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The North America Bakery Products Market is on a significant upward trajectory, projected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% between 2025 and 2033. This growth is propelled by several interconnected trends. Market Growth Drivers include a rising disposable income, increasing urbanization, and a growing demand for convenient and on-the-go food options. The health and wellness trend continues to shape the market, with consumers actively seeking bakery products that offer nutritional benefits, such as whole grains, reduced sugar, and added vitamins. Gluten-free and plant-based bakery products are experiencing exponential growth, catering to specific dietary needs and lifestyle choices. Technological Disruptions are enhancing production efficiency and product innovation. Automation in manufacturing processes, advancements in ingredient technology, and novel packaging solutions are contributing to improved product quality, shelf-life, and consumer appeal. Consumer Preferences are evolving rapidly, with a strong emphasis on artisanal bakery items, clean labels, and ethically sourced ingredients. The demand for premium and gourmet bakery products is also on the rise, offering higher profit margins for manufacturers. Competitive Dynamics are intense, with both established giants and agile startups vying for market share. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to launch innovative products that align with emerging consumer demands. The market penetration of value-added bakery products, such as fortified breads and specialty cakes, is steadily increasing, reflecting a growing consumer willingness to pay a premium for perceived benefits. The overall market size is expected to surpass USD XXX billion by 2033.
Leading Markets & Segments in North America Bakery Products Market
The United States continues to dominate the North America Bakery Products Market, driven by its large consumer base, high purchasing power, and established retail infrastructure. The market size in the United States alone is estimated to be over USD XXX billion in 2025.
Product Type Dominance:
- Bread remains the largest segment by volume, encompassing traditional loaves, specialty breads, and rolls. Key drivers for its dominance include its staple nature, versatility, and continuous innovation in healthier formulations and flavors.
- Cakes and Pastries represent a significant and growing segment, fueled by demand for indulgent treats, celebratory occasions, and convenient snack options. Factors such as evolving flavor profiles and attractive packaging contribute to its strong performance.
- Biscuits also hold a substantial market share, particularly in the sweet and savory categories, catering to snacking occasions and accompanying meals.
- Morning Goods, including muffins, croissants, and donuts, continue to be popular breakfast and snack items, with innovation in convenient, individually packaged options driving growth.
Distribution Channel Dominance:
- Supermarkets/Hypermarkets are the primary distribution channel, offering wide product variety and convenience to consumers. Their extensive reach and promotional activities contribute to their leading position.
- Online Retailers are rapidly gaining traction, offering consumers the convenience of home delivery and access to a wider array of specialty bakery products. This channel is expected to witness the highest growth rate in the coming years.
- Specialist Stores (e.g., artisanal bakeries, patisseries) cater to niche markets seeking premium and handcrafted bakery items, contributing to market value and brand perception.
- Convenience Stores are significant for impulse purchases and on-the-go snacking, especially for bread and pastry items.
Geographical Dominance:
- United States: As mentioned, it is the largest market due to its economic strength and consumer spending.
- Canada: A mature market with steady demand for traditional bakery products and a growing interest in health-conscious options.
- Mexico: Exhibits significant growth potential driven by a rising middle class, increasing urbanization, and a strong culinary tradition that embraces bakery items.
North America Bakery Products Market Product Developments
Product innovation in the North America Bakery Products Market is primarily focused on addressing evolving consumer demands for health, convenience, and indulgence. Companies are actively developing products with reduced sugar and sodium content, incorporating whole grains, and offering plant-based and gluten-free alternatives. Advancements in ingredient science are enabling the creation of bakery items with enhanced nutritional profiles, such as added fiber and protein. The trend towards premiumization is also evident, with a focus on artisanal quality, unique flavor combinations, and visually appealing presentations. Competitive advantages are being built through innovative packaging solutions that extend shelf-life, enhance portability, and promote sustainability, alongside the introduction of novel snack cakes and on-the-go bakery solutions.
Key Drivers of North America Bakery Products Market Growth
The growth of the North America Bakery Products Market is propelled by several key drivers. Technological advancements in manufacturing processes, including automation and specialized equipment, are enhancing production efficiency and enabling the development of new product formats. The increasing focus on health and wellness is a significant economic factor, leading to a surge in demand for bakery products with functional benefits, such as high fiber, low sugar, and added nutrients. Regulatory support for food innovation and labeling transparency also fosters market expansion. Furthermore, changing consumer lifestyles, characterized by busy schedules and a desire for convenient meal solutions and snacks, directly fuels the demand for ready-to-eat bakery items.
Challenges in the North America Bakery Products Market Market
Despite its robust growth, the North America Bakery Products Market faces several challenges. Regulatory hurdles, particularly stringent labeling requirements and food safety standards, can increase compliance costs for manufacturers. Supply chain disruptions, influenced by factors such as fluctuating commodity prices and logistical complexities, can impact production costs and product availability. Intense competitive pressures from both established brands and emerging players necessitate continuous product innovation and aggressive marketing strategies to maintain market share. The rising cost of raw materials, such as wheat and sugar, also presents a significant challenge, potentially impacting profit margins.
Emerging Opportunities in North America Bakery Products Market
The North America Bakery Products Market is ripe with emerging opportunities. Technological breakthroughs in areas like plant-based ingredients and advanced food preservation techniques will unlock new product development avenues. Strategic partnerships between ingredient suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers can create synergistic growth opportunities, expanding market reach and consumer engagement. The growing demand for personalized nutrition presents an opportunity for the development of customizable bakery options catering to specific dietary needs and preferences. Furthermore, the expansion of online retail channels and direct-to-consumer models offers significant potential for market penetration and customer acquisition.
Leading Players in the North America Bakery Products Market Sector
- Alpha Baking Co Inc
- General Mills Inc
- Gruma SAB de CV
- Flowers Foods Inc
- Grupo Bimbo SAB De CV
- Mondelez International Inc
- Campbell Soup Company
- Sara Lee Frozen Bakery
- Hostess Brands Inc
- Kellogg Company
Key Milestones in North America Bakery Products Market Industry
- February 2023: Hostess Brands Inc Introduced the new Hostess Kazbras, a candy-bar snack cake mashup that combines different layers of cake, cream, candy crunch, and caramel, expanding their indulgent snack offerings.
- January 2023: Bimbo Bakeries United States brand Sara Lee launched new white bread made with veggies. According to the company's claim, the product is baked with the equivalent of one cup of veggies per loaf and fortified with vitamins A, D, and E, catering to the growing health-conscious consumer segment.
- January 2023: The Campbell Soup Company revealed that the Camden headquarters of the company was about to house the snacks offices currently located in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Norwalk, Connecticut. The corporation revealed its plans to spend over USD 50 million over the following three years to upgrade its Camden facilities, which were about to be situated on its refurbished site, signaling strategic investment in their snacks division and operational consolidation.
Strategic Outlook for North America Bakery Products Market Market
The strategic outlook for the North America Bakery Products Market remains exceptionally positive, driven by sustained consumer demand and a conducive market environment. Key growth accelerators include the ongoing innovation in health-focused and plant-based bakery alternatives, alongside the expansion of e-commerce platforms offering direct-to-consumer convenience. Companies are advised to focus on leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies to optimize production and maintain cost-competitiveness. Strategic investments in research and development to cater to evolving dietary trends and the exploration of niche markets for premium and artisanal bakery products will be crucial for long-term success and capturing a larger share of this dynamic market.
North America Bakery Products Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 1.2. Biscuits
- 1.3. Bread
- 1.4. Morning Goods
- 1.5. Others
-
2. Distribution Channel
- 2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 2.2. Convenience Stores
- 2.3. Specialist Stores
- 2.4. Online Retailers
- 2.5. Other Distribution Channels
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. United States
- 3.2. Canada
- 3.3. Mexico
- 3.4. Rest of North America
North America Bakery Products Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States
- 2. Canada
- 3. Mexico
- 4. Rest of North America
North America Bakery Products Market Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of North America Bakery Products Market
North America Bakery Products 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 4.28% 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. Innovation in Vanillin Synthesis; Diverse Functionality of Vanillin In End-use Industries
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Supply Chain Variability Impacting Vanilla Bean Availability For Flavor Production
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Demand For Convenient and Healthy On-The-Go Snacking
- 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. North America Bakery Products Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 5.1.2. Biscuits
- 5.1.3. Bread
- 5.1.4. Morning Goods
- 5.1.5. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 5.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 5.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 5.2.3. Specialist Stores
- 5.2.4. Online Retailers
- 5.2.5. Other Distribution Channels
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. United States
- 5.3.2. Canada
- 5.3.3. Mexico
- 5.3.4. Rest of North America
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. United States
- 5.4.2. Canada
- 5.4.3. Mexico
- 5.4.4. Rest of North America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. United States North America Bakery Products Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6.1.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 6.1.2. Biscuits
- 6.1.3. Bread
- 6.1.4. Morning Goods
- 6.1.5. Others
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 6.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 6.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 6.2.3. Specialist Stores
- 6.2.4. Online Retailers
- 6.2.5. Other Distribution Channels
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. United States
- 6.3.2. Canada
- 6.3.3. Mexico
- 6.3.4. Rest of North America
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7. Canada North America Bakery Products Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7.1.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 7.1.2. Biscuits
- 7.1.3. Bread
- 7.1.4. Morning Goods
- 7.1.5. Others
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 7.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 7.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 7.2.3. Specialist Stores
- 7.2.4. Online Retailers
- 7.2.5. Other Distribution Channels
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. United States
- 7.3.2. Canada
- 7.3.3. Mexico
- 7.3.4. Rest of North America
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8. Mexico North America Bakery Products Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8.1.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 8.1.2. Biscuits
- 8.1.3. Bread
- 8.1.4. Morning Goods
- 8.1.5. Others
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 8.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 8.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 8.2.3. Specialist Stores
- 8.2.4. Online Retailers
- 8.2.5. Other Distribution Channels
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. United States
- 8.3.2. Canada
- 8.3.3. Mexico
- 8.3.4. Rest of North America
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9. Rest of North America North America Bakery Products Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9.1.1. Cakes and Pastries
- 9.1.2. Biscuits
- 9.1.3. Bread
- 9.1.4. Morning Goods
- 9.1.5. Others
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 9.2.1. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- 9.2.2. Convenience Stores
- 9.2.3. Specialist Stores
- 9.2.4. Online Retailers
- 9.2.5. Other Distribution Channels
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 9.3.1. United States
- 9.3.2. Canada
- 9.3.3. Mexico
- 9.3.4. Rest of North America
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 10. Competitive Analysis
- 10.1. Market Share Analysis 2025
- 10.2. Company Profiles
- 10.2.1 Alpha Baking Co Inc
- 10.2.1.1. Overview
- 10.2.1.2. Products
- 10.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.2 General Mills Inc
- 10.2.2.1. Overview
- 10.2.2.2. Products
- 10.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.3 Gruma SAB de CV
- 10.2.3.1. Overview
- 10.2.3.2. Products
- 10.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.4 Flowers Foods Inc *List Not Exhaustive
- 10.2.4.1. Overview
- 10.2.4.2. Products
- 10.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.5 Grupo Bimbo SAB De CV
- 10.2.5.1. Overview
- 10.2.5.2. Products
- 10.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.6 Mondelez International Inc
- 10.2.6.1. Overview
- 10.2.6.2. Products
- 10.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.7 Campbell Soup Company
- 10.2.7.1. Overview
- 10.2.7.2. Products
- 10.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.8 Sara Lee Frozen Bakery
- 10.2.8.1. Overview
- 10.2.8.2. Products
- 10.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.9 Hostess Brands Inc
- 10.2.9.1. Overview
- 10.2.9.2. Products
- 10.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.10 Kellogg Company
- 10.2.10.1. Overview
- 10.2.10.2. Products
- 10.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 10.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 10.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 10.2.1 Alpha Baking Co Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue Breakdown (billion, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: North America Bakery Products Market Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Product Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Product Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Product Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Product Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Product Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2020 & 2033
- Table 19: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Geography 2020 & 2033
- Table 20: North America Bakery Products Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the North America Bakery Products Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.28%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the North America Bakery Products Market?
Key companies in the market include Alpha Baking Co Inc, General Mills Inc, Gruma SAB de CV, Flowers Foods Inc *List Not Exhaustive, Grupo Bimbo SAB De CV, Mondelez International Inc, Campbell Soup Company, Sara Lee Frozen Bakery, Hostess Brands Inc, Kellogg Company.
3. What are the main segments of the North America Bakery Products Market?
The market segments include Product Type, Distribution Channel, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 126.61 billion as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Innovation in Vanillin Synthesis; Diverse Functionality of Vanillin In End-use Industries.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Demand For Convenient and Healthy On-The-Go Snacking.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Supply Chain Variability Impacting Vanilla Bean Availability For Flavor Production.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In February 2023, Hostess Brands Inc Introduced the new Hostess Kazbras, a candy-bar snack cake mashup that combines different layers of cake, cream, candy crunch, and caramel.
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 "North America Bakery Products 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 North America Bakery Products 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 North America Bakery Products Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the North America Bakery Products 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