How to Write a Competitive Market Analysis for Your Business Plan
A well-crafted competitive market analysis is a critical part of any business plan. It shows investors and stakeholders that you understand your industry, your competitors, and your position in the market. It also helps you identify opportunities, refine your strategy, and stay ahead of the game.
In this article, we break down how to write a competitive market analysis that adds real value to your business plan.
1. Identify Your Key Competitors
Start by listing your direct competitors—businesses offering the same product or service to the same target market. Then, include indirect competitors—those who offer alternative solutions to the same problem.
For each competitor, gather details such as:
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Business name and location
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Product/service offerings
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Market share
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Target customers
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Pricing strategies
This information helps you understand what you’re up against.
2. Analyze Their Strengths and Weaknesses
Dig deeper into what your competitors do well—and where they fall short. You can look at:
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Product quality
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Brand reputation
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Marketing effectiveness
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Customer service
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Innovation
Use tools like SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) to structure your findings.
3. Evaluate Market Positioning
Study how each competitor positions themselves in the market. Are they high-end or budget-friendly? Are they focused on a niche or the mass market? Understanding their brand message and positioning strategy helps you define your own.
4. Assess Their Online Presence
A competitor’s website, social media, and online reviews can reveal a lot. Look at:
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Website design and messaging
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Social media engagement
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Online advertising
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Customer feedback and ratings
This gives you insights into their customer relationship and marketing strengths.
5. Define Your Competitive Advantage
Once you understand the competition, explain what sets you apart. This could be:
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A unique product feature
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Superior customer service
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Better pricing or value
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A new market segment you’re targeting
Be clear and confident about why customers would choose you over others.
6. Present the Analysis Visually
Make your analysis easy to digest using:
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Comparison tables
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Charts and graphs
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SWOT summaries
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Bullet-point breakdowns
Visuals not only simplify complex information but also make your business plan look more professional.
A thorough competitive market analysis boosts your business plan’s credibility and gives investors confidence in your strategy. It also helps you sharpen your focus and make smarter business decisions.
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