
CONSULTING
IOA’s Consulting Division provides clients with tailored Africa-focused research intelligence solutions on a broad array of African topics, industries, sectors and markets.
IOA conducts in-depth commercial landscape assessment in guiding clients on the current status of target markets. We assess key trends, growth and opportunity areas, threats, policies and regulations and industry-specific developments to be aware of among others. Understanding the working dynamics between industry players across sectors is needed in positioning to best capture on target segments. Working in close collaboration with our clients we are able to generate actionable intelligence in facilitating guided decision-making. Without sound knowledge of African consumer markets a good product may fail to take root even if there is demand for it. Our ever-evolving research methods provide clients with the necessary tools to unpack local trends in adapting to shifts and changes in consumer mindsets. Without the right knowledge new market entrants can be exposed to potential pitfalls associated with doing business in Africa. We execute the necessary background checks of market operators – both public and private – in ensuring our clients are well-informed on viable partners to consider. Democracy in Africa can at times be fragile and election periods are an important time to take stock of progress made and plan for the road ahead. By monitoring developments pre- and post-election, we provide guidance on domestic geopolitical shifts and policy changes that may impact our clients and their existing/upcoming initiatives as governance changes hands. Through the expert assessment of political and social events across the continent, our analysts reveal the future implications and fundamental relevance of emerging geopolitical trends. Our bespoke predictive intelligence helps global enterprises to zero in on inherent risks and discover salient opportunities relative to their strategic planning. A comprehensive analysis of the industry in which our clients operate or want to operate in; including the analysis of competitors, their operations, the growth potential and existential threats to the industry, technological trends and industry impact, analysis of foreign investment and partnership in the industry, and other critical areas of investigation. Our market trend analysis supports our clients’ strategy and development through an analytical focus on salient factors such as demographic migrations, sales growth, product demand and analysis, consumer behaviour patterns and more. These studies are either industry/market-specific, or span multiple industries and/or African markets. The ubiquitous availability of media, multiplicity of channels and exponential increase of access choices makes navigating the African media landscape a challenging feat. Our media analysis includes traditional, digital and social media, supported by digital innovations in tracking and assessment across multiple platforms. Drawing on over 10 years of experience and numerous client engagements, IOA is able to accurately quantify market size, composition, future growth drivers and strategically position our clients to be at the forefront of their industry. Our previous opportunity assessments have covered more than 40 African markets for clients in various industries. IOA has increasingly worked with clients on reputation and brand equity studies, guiding clients on the refinement of their brand strategies and/or strategic decision-making relating to expansion into new markets. These studies range from internal brand research studies such as employee surveys through to large-scale consumer research studies. Through our decade-long experience of working throughout the continent we understand the inherent risks and challenges of various markets. Through our South African team of analysts and researchers and our ‘300’ consultant network we are able to provide a 360° view of the operational landscape for business across African jurisdictions. Africa’s heterogeneous society is spirited and in constant flux. IOA works with governments, NGOs and international organisations to gauge attitudes, beliefs and behaviour patterns of Africa’s diverse populations. IOA holds extensive experience in research on social issues such as education, gender, healthcare, unemployment and more. Getting the right suppliers, distributors, and developing appropriate relationships which can positively affect profitability and impact is a delicate task. IOA consultants support clients to benchmark their market position relative to competitors and develop connections which maximise opportunities and enjoy brand harmony to sustain strategic imperatives. C-suite executives, organisation leaders and various other stakeholders require up-to-date, insight-driven assessments of key trends, industry developments, or region-specific outlooks. IOA’s experience in and on Africa in tandem with our extensive footprint and presence on the continent positions us to deliver actionable briefings tailored to your requirements.
CONTACT US
IOA has on-the-ground consultant presence in more than 30 African countries, as well as strategic partnerships across the continent. We’ve conducted research in and on all 54 countries.
