Qualitative research companies focus on gathering in-depth insights about consumer behavior, motivations, and preferences. This industry primarily includes firms specializing in methodologies like focus groups, interviews, and ethnographies. As companies seek to directly engage with their customers and respond to shifting market trends, qualitative research is becoming more vital. The industry's trajectory indicates a rise in technology-driven solutions such as online communities and AI tools, allowing for real-time feedback and enhanced data collection. Professionals are increasingly prioritizing qualitative insights, recognizing their importance in developing effective marketing and product strategies for informed decision-making.

The companies listed here showcase various sizes, from small teams to larger firms, headquartered in locations across the globe. Established between 1941 and 2015, these companies specialize in a wide range of qualitative research services. They operate in diverse sectors such as consumer goods, healthcare, technology, and public services, each bringing unique methodologies and solutions to fulfill client needs. With a commitment to delivering actionable insights, these firms employ innovative tools to enhance the research process and capture detailed views on customer satisfaction and consumer interactions.

Continue reading to discover the top qualitative research companies.

Top 24 Qualitative Research Companies

1. Schlesinger Group

• Website: schlesingergroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Woodbridge Township, New Jersey, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 63%, India 22%, Nicaragua 4%, Other 11%
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: schlesinger-group

Schlesinger Group, now branded as Sago, is a market research firm based in Woodbridge Township, New Jersey. Founded in 1966, the company has built a strong reputation for providing a wide array of qualitative and quantitative research services. With a workforce of approximately 312 employees, Sago serves various sectors, including Consumer Packaged Goods, Healthcare, Financial Services, and Media Technology. The firm emphasizes a consultative approach, helping clients form deeper connections with their customers. Sago's offerings include global qualitative research, in-person facilities, and advanced digital platforms for discussions and interviews. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their recent developments, such as the Query AI feature, which enhances qualitative analysis. Sago has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial dependencies.

2. Fieldwork

• Website: fieldwork.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Spain 2%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: fieldwork

Fieldwork is a market research company based in Chicago, Illinois, that has been active since 1981. With a workforce of approximately 337 employees, the company specializes in qualitative research services. They offer a variety of solutions, including participant recruitment, project management, and the provision of specialized research environments. Fieldwork operates a network of facilities across major U.S. cities, enabling them to support a wide array of research needs. Their client base includes businesses and organizations seeking insights into consumer behavior, and they have developed a reputation for meticulous participant recruitment and exceptional client service. Fieldwork also adapts to modern research demands by offering virtual market research capabilities, ensuring they remain relevant in an evolving industry. Their commitment to ethical practices in recruiting participants further enhances their standing in the qualitative research field.

3. MarketVision Research

• Website: mv-research.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Blue Ash, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: marketvision-research

MarketVision Research, based in Blue Ash, Ohio, is a custom market research firm that has been operational since 1983. With a workforce of approximately 224 employees, the company specializes in both quantitative and qualitative research, providing tailored solutions to clients across multiple industries. Their expertise spans healthcare, consumer goods, financial services, and more, allowing them to address the unique challenges faced by businesses in understanding consumer behavior and market dynamics. MarketVision prides itself on its client-centric approach, emphasizing authenticity, craftsmanship, and thoughtfulness in its engagements. The firm employs a variety of qualitative techniques, including focus groups, in-depth interviews, and online communities, to generate insights that drive strategic decision-making for their clients. Their commitment to quality and personalized service has established them as a trusted partner in the market research sector.

4. DJS Research Ltd

• Website: djsresearch.co.uk
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Marple, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 95%, Romania 3%, United States (USA) 3%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: djs-research-ltd

DJS Research Ltd, based in Marple, England, is a market research agency that has been active since 2001. The company specializes in both qualitative and quantitative research, providing insights that help clients understand market dynamics and consumer behavior. They utilize a variety of methodologies, including surveys, focus groups, and data analysis, to deliver comprehensive research solutions. DJS Research serves a wide array of clients across public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, indicating their versatility in addressing different research needs. The firm is employee-owned, which fosters a collaborative environment and a commitment to quality. Their team is dedicated to building long-term partnerships with clients, emphasizing integrity and creativity in their approach. DJS Research has also been recognized for its performance, securing a place on the Crown Commercial Service framework, which highlights their credibility in the industry.

5. Opinions LTD

• Website: opinionsltd.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chagrin Falls, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Germany 2%
• Latest funding: May 2012
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: opinions-ltd.

Opinions LTD, founded in 1998 and based in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, is a market research firm that specializes in a wide array of research services. The company provides package testing, UX testing, and qualitative research, catering primarily to consumer brands and research agencies. With a workforce of over 200 employees, Opinions LTD has established itself as a reliable partner for clients seeking insights into consumer behavior. Their approach includes utilizing technology to enhance research accuracy and participant engagement. The firm operates its own testing centers, which are designed to facilitate various research methodologies, ensuring a controlled environment for data collection. Their commitment to delivering timely and quality research makes them a notable player in the market research industry.

6. Roy Morgan

• Website: roymorgan.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Vitoria, Espírito Santo, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Australia 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1941
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: roy-morgan

Roy Morgan is a market research firm based in Victoria, Brazil, with a strong presence in Australia. Founded in 1941, the company has built a reputation for providing insights into consumer behavior and market trends. They offer a variety of products and services, including advertising research, longitudinal studies, and consumer segmentation tools. Their clientele includes businesses and organizations looking to enhance their strategies by understanding market dynamics. Roy Morgan's innovative tools, such as Helix Personas and the Reactor, allow for in-depth analysis of consumer attitudes and behaviors. The firm is family-owned and employs around 458 people, primarily in Australia, showcasing its commitment to the local market while also engaging in international research projects.

7. PBS Sp. z o.o.

• Website: pbs.pl
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sopot, Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland
• Employee distribution: Poland 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pbssopot

PBS Sp. z o.o., established in 1990, is a market research agency based in Sopot, Poland. The company specializes in both quantitative and qualitative research services, providing insights that help businesses and organizations understand consumer behavior and market trends. With a workforce of around 72 employees, PBS has developed a robust portfolio of research techniques, including in-depth interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic studies. Their clientele spans various sectors, such as marketing, education, and public administration, showcasing their adaptability and expertise in addressing different research needs. PBS has also been involved in numerous projects funded by the European Union, reflecting their capability to handle complex and high-budget research initiatives. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their possession of multiple certifications in research methodologies, making them a reputable player in the Polish market research industry.

8. MERCAPLAN Millward Brown

• Website: mercaplan.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Panama City, Panamá, Panama
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mercaplan-millward-brown

MERCAPLAN Millward Brown, founded in 1987, is a market research and consulting agency based in Panama City, Panamá. The company specializes in providing insights and strategies for brand management and consumer behavior. With a workforce of approximately 73 employees, MERCAPLAN operates across multiple countries in Central America and the Caribbean, offering a range of services that include qualitative and quantitative research, brand consulting, and customer experience analysis. Their qualitative research services encompass focus groups, in-depth interviews, and ethnographic studies, which are essential for understanding consumer insights. MERCAPLAN collaborates with notable international organizations, ensuring that their research adheres to high-quality standards. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability in research practices positions them as a relevant player in the market research industry.

9. Zintro

• Website: zintro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, Philippines 7%, United Kingdom (UK) 5%, Other 10%
• Latest funding: $3.2M, June 2015
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: zintro-inc-

Zintro, founded in 2007 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a market research firm that connects clients with specialized respondents for qualitative and quantitative research. The company serves a variety of sectors, including healthcare and technology, by providing expert insights and participant recruitment services. Zintro's approach is centered on flexibility and quality, offering services such as interviews, focus groups, and surveys. They have developed a robust network of over one million experts, allowing them to source hard-to-find participants for research projects. Zintro has also received funding, with a reported amount of $3,180,449 in June 2015, which supports their growth and operational capabilities in the market research industry.

10. Market Xcel

• Website: market-xcel.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi, India
• Employee distribution: India 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: market-xcel-data-matrix-pvt-ltd

Market Xcel, founded in 2000 and based in New Delhi, India, is a market research company that specializes in providing insights and data collection services across various industries. With a workforce of approximately 773 employees, the company has developed a strong foothold in the market research sector, serving over 700 clients globally. Their service portfolio includes qualitative and quantitative research, online panels, and consulting services, all aimed at helping businesses navigate market complexities and consumer preferences. Market Xcel has successfully managed over 40,000 projects, showcasing their capability to handle diverse research needs. They leverage technology to enhance their research methodologies, ensuring that clients receive accurate and timely insights. Their commitment to understanding market dynamics and consumer behavior makes them a significant player in the industry.

11. L&E Research

• Website: leresearch.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: l%26e-research

L&E Research is a market research firm based in Raleigh, North Carolina, with additional facilities in cities like Charlotte, Cincinnati, and New York City. Established in 1984, the company specializes in qualitative research services, providing clients with access to consumers and professionals for insightful feedback. Their offerings include focus group facilities, recruiting services, and project management, tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries. L&E Research is known for its consultative approach, employing a skilled project management team that has executed thousands of successful research projects. They are also active in community support, contributing to local organizations and initiatives, which reflects their commitment to social responsibility. Their professional affiliations with organizations like the Insights Association and the Qualitative Research Consultants Association further underscore their engagement in the market research field.

12. Recollective

• Website: recollective.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 87%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, United States (USA) 4%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: recollective

Recollective, founded in 1998 and based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, is a private company that operates a qualitative research platform. With a workforce of approximately 111 employees, Recollective provides tools that facilitate engaging qualitative research and community engagement. Their platform is designed to serve a wide array of clients, including researchers, brands, and educational institutions, by offering AI-driven insights and customizable research solutions. The platform supports various research methods, such as digital diaries, user experience studies, and ideation sessions, allowing clients to gather and analyze qualitative data effectively. Recollective has established itself as a valuable partner for organizations looking to enhance their research capabilities, evidenced by positive testimonials from clients who have benefited from their services. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model.

13. Q-Insights

• Website: q-insights.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: qualitative-insights

Q-Insights, based in Los Angeles, California, is a market research firm that has been operational since 1982. With a workforce of approximately 29 employees, the company specializes in qualitative and quantitative research services. They cater to businesses looking to gather actionable insights, particularly from hard-to-reach respondents. Q-Insights has developed a reputation for excellence in automotive and multicultural research, leveraging their state-of-the-art focus group facilities and a comprehensive respondent database. Their approach includes innovative recruitment strategies that go beyond traditional methods, allowing them to connect with various demographic groups effectively. As part of the ISA Family of Companies, Q-Insights benefits from a rich heritage in marketing research, enhancing their credibility and operational capabilities. They have not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable, self-sustaining business model.

14. Validata

• Website: validata.ru
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Moscow, Moscow, Russia
• Employee distribution: Russia 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: validata

Validata, founded in 1992 and based in Moscow, is a private market research firm that specializes in both qualitative and quantitative research methods. The company has built a reputation for providing valuable insights into consumer behavior and market trends across various industries. With a team of around 40 professionals, Validata conducts approximately 100 focus groups each month, showcasing their active involvement in qualitative research. Their client base ranges from large corporations to small businesses, reflecting their adaptability and commitment to serving a wide array of market needs. Validata operates primarily in Russia and the CIS countries, and they pride themselves on their independent status and the reliability of their data. Their methodologies include ethnographic studies, online blogs, and eye-tracking, which are essential for understanding consumer preferences and behaviors. Validata's membership in ESOMAR highlights their dedication to maintaining high standards in market research practices.

15. RONIN International

• Website: ronin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 88%, Portugal 4%, Hong Kong S.A.R 3%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ronin-international

RONIN International, founded in 1998 and based in London, is a market research firm that provides both qualitative and quantitative research services. The company serves a wide array of sectors, including healthcare, finance, and consumer markets, offering insights that help organizations make informed decisions. RONIN employs various methodologies, such as moderation and depth interviews, to gather qualitative data, and they utilize advanced digital recruitment strategies to engage participants globally. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their adherence to ISO standards and membership in ESOMAR, which underscores their dedication to ethical research practices. With a workforce of around 200 employees, RONIN International has established itself as a significant player in the market research industry, continuously adapting to the evolving needs of their clients.

16. Wilke

• Website: wilke.dk
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Odense, Denmark
• Employee distribution: Denmark 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: wilke

Wilke, founded in 1999 and based in Odense, Denmark, is a private consulting firm that specializes in customer experience, business development, and market research. With a workforce of around 126 employees, Wilke operates across three locations in Denmark: Odense, Aarhus, and Copenhagen. The firm is dedicated to providing tailored insights and solutions to businesses in various sectors, helping them understand customer needs and refine their strategies. Wilke employs a mix of qualitative and quantitative research methods, ensuring that their clients receive comprehensive insights. They have collaborated with prominent companies like Nestlé, Carlsberg, and LEGO, showcasing their expertise in conducting customer interviews, focus groups, and other qualitative research techniques. Wilke's mission is to create effective and empathetic solutions that drive sustainable growth for their clients, making them a significant player in the market research industry.

17. MIS Trend

• Website: mistrend.ch
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
• Employee distribution: Switzerland 100%
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: mis-trend

MIS Trend, based in Lausanne, Switzerland, is a private market research institute founded in 1978. With a workforce of around 48 employees, the company specializes in opinion polling and data analysis. They offer a variety of services, including market studies, customer experience assessments, and scientific surveys. Their expertise lies in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, allowing them to cater to a wide range of clients, from small businesses to large organizations. MIS Trend is known for its rigorous approach to data collection, employing trained researchers to ensure the reliability and validity of their findings. They have developed a strong reputation in the Swiss market, particularly in the French-speaking region, and maintain a panel of 30,000 respondents for online studies. Their commitment to ethical research practices and client satisfaction is evident in their operations, making them a trusted partner for organizations seeking actionable insights.

18. Infinite Insight

• Website: infiniteinsight.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
• Employee distribution: Kenya 85%, South Africa 15%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: infinite-insight

Infinite Insight is a market research agency based in Nairobi, Kenya, established in 2010. The company provides qualitative and quantitative research services across Sub-Saharan Africa, catering to local and international businesses, research agencies, and academic institutions. With a team of 33 professionals, Infinite Insight has successfully executed projects in 30 African markets, covering East, West, and Southern Africa. Their qualitative research offerings include focus groups, in-depth interviews, and ethnographic studies, among others. The agency is dedicated to high-quality results and has a strong commitment to data privacy, adhering to various ethical codes and regulations. They also focus on capacity building, regularly organizing training sessions to enhance their team's skills in research methodologies. This commitment to quality and ethical standards positions Infinite Insight as a relevant player in the qualitative research industry.

19. OpinionWay

• Website: opinion-way.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
• Employee distribution: France 85%, Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) 9%, Morocco 3%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: opinionway

OpinionWay, founded in 2000 and based in Paris, is a private market research and consulting firm. With a workforce of around 177 employees, the company specializes in opinion polling and marketing studies. They offer a wide range of services, including consumer satisfaction studies, brand analysis, and political polling. OpinionWay caters to various sectors, providing insights into consumer behavior and public opinion. Their operations are primarily focused in France, but they also have a presence in countries like Côte d'Ivoire, Morocco, and Poland. The firm has been recognized for its innovative approaches, winning awards in 2023 for excellence in consumer satisfaction and trend analysis. Their commitment to qualitative research is highlighted by their offerings in qualitative and co-creative studies, which aim to provide deeper insights into market dynamics and consumer preferences.

20. FieldGlobal Market Research Pvt Ltd

• Website: fieldglobal.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
• Employee distribution: India 90%, United States (USA) 7%, United Arab Emirates 3%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: fieldglobal

FieldGlobal Market Research Pvt Ltd, established in 2000 and based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, is a market research agency that offers a blend of qualitative and quantitative research services. The company focuses on international data collection and provides business research toolkits tailored to meet the needs of various industries, including healthcare, automotive, and consumer sectors. With a workforce of approximately 147 employees, FieldGlobal emphasizes the importance of qualitative research methods such as in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and mystery shopping. Their facilities are equipped to support these qualitative methods, ensuring a conducive environment for gathering insights. The firm has built a reputation for delivering actionable insights that help clients make informed marketing decisions. Their commitment to quality and client service is evident in their structured project management approach, which includes a single point of contact for clients throughout the research process. This operational model not only streamlines communication but also enhances the overall research experience. FieldGlobal's extensive experience and focus on qualitative research make it a notable entity in the market research industry.

21. Adler Weiner Research

• Website: adlerweiner.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Lincolnwood, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1960
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: adler-weiner-research

Adler Weiner Research, established in 1960, is a family-owned market research firm based in Lincolnwood, Illinois. The company specializes in qualitative research services, offering a range of solutions including focus groups, recruitment services, and advanced technological support for research environments. With facilities in Chicago, Lincolnwood, Los Angeles, and Orange County, Adler Weiner Research caters to a variety of industries, helping businesses and organizations gain insights into consumer behavior. Their approach emphasizes a personal touch, ensuring that clients receive tailored research experiences. The firm has built a reputation for integrity and quality over its decades of operation, making it a trusted partner for many clients seeking to inform their marketing strategies.

22. Methodify

• Website: methodify.it
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Latest funding: November 2021
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: methodify

Methodify, a product of Sago, is a market research company based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2015, it specializes in providing a wide range of qualitative and quantitative research services. Methodify is particularly known for its automated research capabilities, which streamline the process of gathering insights. The company serves various sectors, including Consumer Packaged Goods and Healthcare, helping businesses understand their customers and make informed decisions. Methodify's offerings include digital discussions and interviews, which are essential for qualitative research. With a team of around 20 employees, Methodify leverages advanced technologies to enhance research efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring that clients receive timely and actionable insights.

23. Acumen Fieldwork

• Website: acumenfieldwork.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Manchester, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: acumen-fieldwork

Acumen Fieldwork, based in Manchester, UK, is a family-owned market research agency that has been operational since 2005. The company specializes in qualitative, quantitative, and healthcare research services, providing comprehensive support to market research agencies, large brands, and government departments. Acumen Fieldwork excels in managing fieldwork logistics, participant recruitment, and data collection, allowing clients to focus on deriving insights from their research. With a team of skilled project managers, they ensure that projects are executed efficiently and meet the required timelines and budgets. Acumen Fieldwork is recognized for its commitment to quality, holding memberships in various industry organizations and adhering to rigorous quality standards. Their in-house recruitment team has access to a vast database of participants, enabling them to find suitable candidates for various research needs. The company has also received accolades for its data collection efforts, further solidifying its reputation in the market research industry.

24. Markelytics Solutions

• Website: markelytics.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
• Employee distribution: India 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: April 2013
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: markelytics-solutions

Markelytics Solutions, founded in 2003 and based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, is a market research company that provides a wide array of research services, including both qualitative and quantitative research. With a workforce of around 255 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the market research industry. Markelytics focuses on delivering insights that help clients navigate market trends and consumer behavior across various sectors, such as healthcare, automotive, and e-commerce. Their qualitative research services include consumer immersions, ethnographies, and focus group discussions, which are designed to uncover deep insights into consumer preferences and motivations. The company operates globally, leveraging technology to enhance their research capabilities and ensure data quality. Markelytics has built a reputation for its client-centric approach, providing customized solutions that cater to the unique needs of each client. They have served over 275 clients, showcasing their experience and commitment to delivering actionable insights.

Qualitative Research Insights: Key Companies

Want to Find More Qualitative Research Companies?

With Inven you'll also get to know the company's:

• Detailed Ownership: Who owns the company? Is it a public or private company? What is the ownership structure?
• Contact data: Who are the founders and CEO's? What are their emails and phone numbers?
• Financials: How do these companies perform financially? What are their revenues and profit margins?

...and a lot more!