Sector analysis: how feasible is your idea?

  • Esther Riphagen
  • Edited 17 February 2026
  • 1 min
  • Managing and growing
  • Marketing

Test the feasibility of your idea and discover trends with sector research. All businesses operating in a particular category are referred to as a sector. For example, construction is a sector and so is childcare. Researching what is happening at businesses that are active in the same sector will give you a lot of insight.

You can use the results of a sector analysis to test the feasibility of your idea.

5 questions

Ask yourself these 5 questions to analyse the sector in which you work.

1. How many starters and stoppers are there in my sector?

You can find information on this in the KVK Business Register. It shows you, for instance, how many companies in your sector go bankrupt. Based on this information, you can decide to adjust or postpone your plans.

2. What is the average turnover in my sector?

If most of the companies in your sector are making a profit, this could be a good sign. If you see that the average turnover is decreasing, then it may be wise to readjust your ideas. Financial statements and extracts will give you a general idea. Request financial statements and extracts from comparable companies within your sector if you want to be sure. 

3. Who are the main providers in my sector?

Find out who your main competitors are and then ask yourself these questions:

  • What is their target group?
  • What products or services do they offer?
  • What is the price of their products or services?
  • What is their position within the sector?

Include these results in your competitor analysis.

4. How do products and services reach the customer?

Investigate through which channels products and services are distributed. Who delivers to whom? For example, if you see that many companies in your industry are switching to an online business, it may be wise to follow. If you are a retailer, check wether your competitors have an online shop as well as a physical shop and how many physical shops there are in your sector. 

5. What are the developments and expectations in the sector?

Be aware of developments in your sector so you can be prepared. Are there any significant developments affecting your industry? Is your sector experiencing either staff shortages or a surplus of skilled workers? Is competition increasing, putting pressure on prices? Consider whether your business has a chance of success in light of these developments. 

Where do I find reliable information?

  • Sector information (in Dutch): here you find relevant information concerning your industry, such as  laws and regulations, developments, and turnover.
  • KVK Business Register: request annual accounts and extracts from companies in your sector.
  • CBS: here you will find research statistics per sector.
  •  KVK Company Counter: find out how many other entrepreneurs in your industry are located nearby.
  • KVK Regional scan (in Dutch): check the state of the economy in the region where you want to do business.
  • Location scan (in Dutch): choose a suitable location for your company. Gain insight into where you can find your customers and competition.
  • Panteia: agency carrying out economic and social policy research, transport research, and market research.

Also of interest