Abstract:

In this respect, one could say that the main purpose of modern market research is also in fact to develop pronouncements for governments and business about what will happen in the future. Providing insights into markets and the motivation of customers is all very well but it is much more meaningful if solid and reliable contributions can also be supplied which can generate foresight and plausible visions of the future. Timing is of the essence here - when will what actually happen? Predictions without any indication of timing are not of great value. We shall start this year with both feet on the ground. In addition to discussing the outlook for the industry in 2006 we shall also attempt to provide an update of the characteristic trends.