Key Insights
The North American repair and rehabilitation market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by aging infrastructure, increasing urbanization, and a rising focus on sustainable building practices. The market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025 (assuming a logical estimation based on provided CAGR and market size information), is projected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 5% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Firstly, the substantial existing infrastructure in North America, particularly in the United States, requires significant maintenance and repair to ensure longevity and safety. Secondly, the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, are creating an urgent need for repair and rehabilitation services. Thirdly, governmental initiatives promoting sustainable infrastructure development and energy efficiency are stimulating investments in repair and renovation projects that incorporate environmentally friendly materials and techniques. The residential sector is a significant contributor to market growth, driven by homeowners undertaking renovation projects and repairs to extend the life of their properties. Simultaneously, the commercial and industrial sectors are major drivers due to the need for regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure operational efficiency and compliance with safety standards. Growth is further fueled by advancements in repair materials and techniques, such as resin-based systems and fiber wrapping, which offer enhanced durability and efficiency.
Despite the promising outlook, several restraints could potentially impact market growth. These include fluctuations in raw material prices, labor shortages in the construction industry, and economic downturns that can affect investment in repair and rehabilitation projects. However, the long-term outlook for the market remains positive, driven by the persistent need for infrastructure maintenance and the ongoing trend towards sustainable building practices. The market segmentation, encompassing various end-user sectors (commercial, industrial, infrastructure, residential) and product types (injection grouting materials, resin-based modified mortars, fiber wrapping systems, etc.), offers diverse opportunities for companies such as FairMate, MAPEI Corporation, Pidilite Industries Ltd, BASF SE, and others to capitalize on this expanding market. Competition is expected to remain high, driving innovation and efficiency within the sector.

North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. Covering the period 2019-2033, with a focus on 2025, this report dissects market dynamics, trends, leading players, and future opportunities. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, presenting significant growth potential. Key segments analyzed include Injection Grouting Materials, Resin-based Modified Mortars, Fiber Wrapping Systems, Glass Fiber Rebar Protectors, Micro-concrete Mortars, and Others, across Commercial, Industrial, Infrastructure, and Residential end-user sectors. Leading companies such as FairMate, MAPEI Corporation, Pidilite Industries Ltd, BASF SE, Dow, Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc, STP Limited India, CHRYSO India, Fosroc Inc, SIKA AG, and CICO Group are profiled, providing a competitive landscape analysis.
North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The North American Repair and Rehabilitation market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with several key players holding significant market share. Market concentration is influenced by factors such as brand recognition, technological advancements, and established distribution networks. Innovation is a key driver, with companies continuously developing advanced materials and techniques to enhance repair and rehabilitation processes. Stringent regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning environmental regulations and building codes, shape market practices and product development. The presence of substitute materials, including traditional methods, poses a competitive challenge, demanding continuous innovation. End-user trends, particularly the growing focus on sustainable construction and infrastructure renewal, significantly impact market demand.
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) play a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics. In recent years, the number of M&A deals has been increasing, reflecting the consolidation trend within the industry. For example, MAPEI's acquisition of a new facility in Houston in June 2022 significantly expands its production capacity. While precise market share figures for individual companies are proprietary, a few key players are believed to hold between 10% - 20% of the market share, with others vying for smaller percentages.
North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market is witnessing robust growth, driven by several key factors. Aging infrastructure, coupled with increasing urbanization and industrial activity, fuels the demand for repair and rehabilitation services. Technological advancements, including the development of high-performance materials and innovative repair techniques, are accelerating market expansion. Consumer preferences are shifting towards sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, stimulating the demand for green building materials and practices. The market is characterized by intense competition, prompting companies to invest heavily in research and development and strategic acquisitions to gain a competitive edge. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the forecast period (2025-2033) is estimated to be xx%, reflecting strong market momentum. Market penetration is high in developed regions but presents significant growth opportunities in less developed areas.

Leading Markets & Segments in North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market
The Infrastructure segment dominates the North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market, driven by substantial government investment in infrastructure projects and the need to address aging infrastructure assets. The Residential segment is also experiencing significant growth, fueled by increasing homeownership rates and the demand for home improvements. Geographically, the United States holds the largest market share, due to its extensive infrastructure network and robust construction activity.
- Key Drivers for Infrastructure Segment:
- Significant government spending on infrastructure development and renewal.
- Aging infrastructure requiring extensive repair and rehabilitation.
- Growing demand for resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding natural disasters.
- Key Drivers for Residential Segment:
- Increasing homeownership rates.
- Rising demand for home improvements and renovations.
- Growing awareness of the importance of home maintenance.
- Dominance Analysis: The United States' robust construction industry, aging infrastructure, and substantial government investments make it the leading market. Canada also shows consistent growth, driven by similar factors, though on a smaller scale.
Within product types, Injection Grouting Materials and Resin-based Modified Mortars hold the largest market shares due to their versatility and high performance characteristics.
North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations focus on high-performance, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Manufacturers are developing materials with enhanced durability, improved adhesion, and reduced environmental impact. Technological trends such as nanotechnology and advanced polymer chemistry are driving the development of novel products with superior performance characteristics. These new products are tailored to meet specific market needs, such as increased resistance to corrosion, improved fire safety, and enhanced aesthetic appeal. The market fit for these advancements is strong, driven by the demand for solutions that enhance the longevity, safety, and sustainability of repaired and rehabilitated structures.
Key Drivers of North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Growth
The North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market's growth is fueled by several key factors:
- Aging Infrastructure: The need to repair and rehabilitate aging infrastructure across various sectors (transportation, water, energy) drives significant market demand.
- Government Regulations: Stricter building codes and environmental regulations push for more durable and sustainable repair materials.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in materials science lead to improved performance, durability, and ease of application.
- Economic Growth: Economic expansion in certain regions increases construction activity and hence the demand for repair and rehabilitation.
Challenges in the North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Market
The market faces several challenges:
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Fluctuations in raw material prices and supply chain bottlenecks can impact production costs and availability. These disruptions can be quantified by impacting project timelines and increasing overall project costs by an estimated xx%.
- Intense Competition: The presence of numerous players, including both large multinational corporations and smaller specialized firms, results in intense competition, affecting profit margins.
- Regulatory Hurdles: Navigating complex regulatory frameworks and obtaining necessary permits can create delays and increase project costs.
Emerging Opportunities in North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market
The market presents several significant opportunities:
The increasing focus on sustainable construction practices creates substantial opportunities for manufacturers offering eco-friendly repair and rehabilitation solutions. Strategic partnerships between material manufacturers and construction companies can unlock new market segments and enhance project efficiency. Market expansion into less developed regions with growing infrastructure needs represents a significant opportunity for growth. Technological advancements, particularly in areas like 3D printing and robotics, offer possibilities for more efficient and precise repair techniques.
Leading Players in the North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Sector
- FairMate
- MAPEI Corporation
- Pidilite Industries Ltd
- BASF SE
- Dow
- Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc
- STP Limited India
- CHRYSO India
- Fosroc Inc
- SIKA AG
- CICO Group
Key Milestones in North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Industry
- July 2022: BASF SE's USD 780 Million investment in MDI expansion at the Geismar Verbund plant signals a significant commitment to expanding production capacity for foam insulation used in construction. This expansion impacts the availability and pricing of key raw materials within the repair and rehabilitation sector.
- June 2022: MAPEI's acquisition of a new 200,000-square-foot facility in Houston, Texas, boosts its production capacity for powders and liquid admixtures, strengthening its market position and potentially influencing pricing and supply within the sector.
Strategic Outlook for North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Market
The North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market is poised for continued growth, driven by long-term trends in infrastructure development, technological innovation, and increasing demand for sustainable solutions. Strategic opportunities exist for companies to focus on developing and marketing high-performance, eco-friendly products, expanding into new market segments, and forming strategic partnerships to enhance market reach and competitiveness. The market's future potential lies in embracing technological breakthroughs and adapting to evolving regulatory landscapes.
North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
-
1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 1.1.1. Cement-based
- 1.1.2. Resin-based
- 1.2. Modified Mortars
-
1.3. Fiber Wrapping Systems
- 1.3.1. Carbon Fiber
- 1.3.2. Glass Fiber
- 1.4. Rebar Protectors
- 1.5. Micro-concrete Mortars
- 1.6. Others
-
1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
-
2. End-User Sectors
- 2.1. Commercial
- 2.2. Industrial
- 2.3. Infrastructure
- 2.4. Residential
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. United States
- 3.2. Canada
- 3.3. Mexico
North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States
- 2. Canada
- 3. Mexico

North America Repair and Rehabilitation 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 > 5.00% 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 Construction Activities in the United States; Growing Demand for Effective and Reliable Repair and Rehabilitation Treatments for Complex Structures
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Lack of Skilled Labors
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Rising Demand from the Residential Segment
- 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 Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 5.1.1.1. Cement-based
- 5.1.1.2. Resin-based
- 5.1.2. Modified Mortars
- 5.1.3. Fiber Wrapping Systems
- 5.1.3.1. Carbon Fiber
- 5.1.3.2. Glass Fiber
- 5.1.4. Rebar Protectors
- 5.1.5. Micro-concrete Mortars
- 5.1.6. Others
- 5.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Sectors
- 5.2.1. Commercial
- 5.2.2. Industrial
- 5.2.3. Infrastructure
- 5.2.4. Residential
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. United States
- 5.3.2. Canada
- 5.3.3. Mexico
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. United States
- 5.4.2. Canada
- 5.4.3. Mexico
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. United States North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 6.1.1.1. Cement-based
- 6.1.1.2. Resin-based
- 6.1.2. Modified Mortars
- 6.1.3. Fiber Wrapping Systems
- 6.1.3.1. Carbon Fiber
- 6.1.3.2. Glass Fiber
- 6.1.4. Rebar Protectors
- 6.1.5. Micro-concrete Mortars
- 6.1.6. Others
- 6.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Sectors
- 6.2.1. Commercial
- 6.2.2. Industrial
- 6.2.3. Infrastructure
- 6.2.4. Residential
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. United States
- 6.3.2. Canada
- 6.3.3. Mexico
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7. Canada North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 7.1.1.1. Cement-based
- 7.1.1.2. Resin-based
- 7.1.2. Modified Mortars
- 7.1.3. Fiber Wrapping Systems
- 7.1.3.1. Carbon Fiber
- 7.1.3.2. Glass Fiber
- 7.1.4. Rebar Protectors
- 7.1.5. Micro-concrete Mortars
- 7.1.6. Others
- 7.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Sectors
- 7.2.1. Commercial
- 7.2.2. Industrial
- 7.2.3. Infrastructure
- 7.2.4. Residential
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. United States
- 7.3.2. Canada
- 7.3.3. Mexico
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8. Mexico North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 8.1.1.1. Cement-based
- 8.1.1.2. Resin-based
- 8.1.2. Modified Mortars
- 8.1.3. Fiber Wrapping Systems
- 8.1.3.1. Carbon Fiber
- 8.1.3.2. Glass Fiber
- 8.1.4. Rebar Protectors
- 8.1.5. Micro-concrete Mortars
- 8.1.6. Others
- 8.1.1. Injection Grouting Materials
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-User Sectors
- 8.2.1. Commercial
- 8.2.2. Industrial
- 8.2.3. Infrastructure
- 8.2.4. Residential
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. United States
- 8.3.2. Canada
- 8.3.3. Mexico
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9. United States North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Canada North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Mexico North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of North America North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 FairMate
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 MAPEI Corporation
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Pidilite Industries Ltd
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 BASF SE
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 Dow
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 STP Limited India *List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 CHRYSO India
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Fosroc Inc
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 SIKA AG
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.11 CICO Group
- 13.2.11.1. Overview
- 13.2.11.2. Products
- 13.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 FairMate
List of Figures
- Figure 1: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Sectors 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: United States North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Canada North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Mexico North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Rest of North America North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Sectors 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Sectors 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-User Sectors 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 5.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market?
Key companies in the market include FairMate, MAPEI Corporation, Pidilite Industries Ltd, BASF SE, Dow, Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc, STP Limited India *List Not Exhaustive, CHRYSO India, Fosroc Inc, SIKA AG, CICO Group.
3. What are the main segments of the North America Repair and Rehabilitation Market?
The market segments include Product Type, End-User Sectors, Geography.
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 Construction Activities in the United States; Growing Demand for Effective and Reliable Repair and Rehabilitation Treatments for Complex Structures.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Rising Demand from the Residential Segment.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Lack of Skilled Labors.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
July 2022: BASF SE confirmed the last phase of MDI expansion at the Geismar Verbund plant, with a USD 780 million investment. Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) is used in foam insulation for appliances and construction.
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 "North America Repair and Rehabilitation 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 Repair and Rehabilitation 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 Repair and Rehabilitation Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the North America Repair and Rehabilitation 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