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Resources for learning consumer goods & retail sector

I'll be joining a consulting firm specializing in consumer goods & retail sector soon, and I'd like to develop industry knowledge in this sector. 

Could you recommend ways to systematically learn this sector? I've been reading investor presentation and financial reports but I'm wondering whether there's more efficient & effective approaches. Are there any resources (including paid) or books that you would recommend to learn about this sector? Thanks!

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Top answer
Clara
Coach
on Apr 16, 2022
McKinsey | Awarded professor at Master in Management @ IE | MBA at MIT |+180 students coached | Integrated FIT Guide aut

Hello!

It´s a great question indeed. 

What I would do is pose this question to the team and leadership that you will be joining. 

First, they would love to see you so invested. Second, they are the ones that will be able to make the best recommendations. 

Hope it helps!

Cheers, 

Clara

Ian
Coach
on Apr 13, 2022
Top US BCG / MBB Coach - 5,000 sessions |Tech, Platinion, Big 4 | 9/9 personal interviews passed | 95% candidate success

Hi there,

1) BCG Insights and McK Insights. Go to their CPG & Retail sections!

2) I have 20+ industry deep-dives which include CPG/Retail. Feel to reach out for these

3) Create your own template/outline and research through google, Investopedia etc.

Ken
Coach
on Apr 13, 2022
Ex-McKinsey final round interviewer | Executive Coach

I think it's a balance of sector overview and specific major players.  There's a wealth of publicly available information on sector trends (incl. those published by consultancies such as McKinsey).  For companies, I think you're already doing the right thing where as a (prospective) management consultant, having a view of established and emerging players is key.  You can find specific reports but frankly, the fun and value comes more from reading around and formulating your own perspectives!

Deleted user
on Apr 13, 2022

Hi There, 

No need to overthink. You have managed to crack the interviews means you have good experience and knowledge to succeed in the space. Go through the thought leadership published by the consulting firm you are joining. And that should be good enough.

Good luck!

8
Maikol
Coach
on Apr 13, 2022
BCG Project Leader | Former Bain, AlixPartner, and PE | INSEAD MBA | GMAT 780

Here you can find my suggestions:
 

  • buy books on the topic
  • read blogs on the topic
  • read McKinsey, Bain, BCG articles
  • talk with experts in the sector (if you just ask on LinkedIn, many will give you some time)

Beyond that, you will build most of your knowledge on the job.

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