From Local to Global: Using Research to Identify High-Growth Regions

Expanding into new markets is one of the most powerful ways to drive business growth, unlock new revenue streams, and safeguard against domestic risks. But success isn’t just about diving in—it's about choosing the right regions. Regions with booming economies, thriving demographics, and cutting-edge technology can offer the perfect launchpad for growth. The key? Spotting those macro trends that draw you in.

For manufacturers, cost is king. Setting up operations in regions with low labor costs, abundant resources, and efficient transportation can supercharge profits and unlock economies of scale. But manufacturing isn’t the only sector where smart market entry creates competitive advantages. Technology companies must consider digital infrastructure and regulatory environments, retailers must assess consumer demand and e-commerce penetration, and financial services firms need to evaluate market maturity and compliance complexity. Each industry has unique expansion drivers, but the fundamental challenge remains the same: balancing cost efficiency, market demand, and long-term viability.

Globalization has made it easier than ever to tap into foreign markets, but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. The key to success isn’t simply chasing the cheapest option or the fastest-growing market—it’s about strategically identifying where a business model will thrive. The right market offers not just opportunity, but sustainability, making research-driven decision-making essential for long-term success.

What are high-growth regions?

There are many ways to define a high-growth region. Within a particular country, a high-growth region is one where economic expansion outpaces the national average, driven by favorable business conditions, rising consumer demand, and strong investment inflows, all contributing to external economies of scale benefits. 

On the global stage, a high-growth region could be a country or area where a particular sector or industry is or is about to take off, perhaps because of an abundance of materials, favorable regulations and trade flows, a growing middle class or access to a skilled labor force. These regions vary by industry—what qualifies as high growth for the technology sector may not hold for manufacturing or retail.

One stark example of a fast-growing region is Taiwan, driven by its booming semiconductor manufacturing industry. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) grew by 34% in 2024 and is worth an impressive $2.9 trillion. This world-leading business sits in a country with more than 1,000 semiconductor companies, providing one of the best examples of a rapidly growing area driven by the soaring demand for AI. This region is part of the Southeast Asia and North American technology corridors that are experiencing rapid industrial and economic transformation, making them prime targets for expansion.

The pitfalls of oversimplifying market growth

One of the most common mistakes businesses make when considering expansion is equating overall economic growth with opportunity. A country experiencing a surge in GDP does not necessarily present an open runway for every industry. Take India, for example. With an annual GDP growth rate exceeding 6% in recent years, it seems like an attractive market for global companies. However, this growth is not uniform across all industries. While the tech sector is booming, heavily regulated industries, such as healthcare and finance, face significant barriers to entry.

The same applies to highly saturated markets. China’s retail and e-commerce sectors, for example, have grown tremendously over the past two decades. Yet, for new entrants, the dominance of Alibaba and JD.com presents an almost insurmountable challenge. Without a differentiated offering or a niche strategy, competing in this space is a high-risk move.

A more strategic approach to identifying market opportunities involves looking beyond broad economic figures and assessing industry-specific performance, regulatory complexity, and structural challenges within each region.

How to conduct regional analysis using market research

Identifying and evaluating high-growth regions is essential for businesses seeking geographical expansion, allowing them to maximize opportunities and the chances of long-term success. Market research is a crucial tool that can support this, providing a comprehensive overview of the competitive characteristics of a particular region or industry and highlighting some key pull factors that can entice businesses. Through a structured approach that leverages data-driven analysis, companies can make informed decisions about where to invest and how to tailor their strategies to specific regions.

You can employ a range of analytical tools to assess regional viability and identify promising opportunities:

• SWOT Analysis: This framework evaluates a region’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. It helps businesses determine the advantages of entering a particular market while identifying potential risks.
• PESTLE Analysis: A comprehensive tool that examines political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors influencing market conditions. This method ensures businesses consider external factors that may impact success in a new region over the coming years.
• Data-Driven Insights: Statistical and financial data analysis allows businesses to track market trends, consumer spending habits, and economic performance, offering an evidence-based approach to decision-making.

These techniques collectively enable businesses to evaluate market potential, mitigate risks, and develop tailored strategies for regional expansion.

However, the second layer to this process is fine-tuning the data points to speed up the process of identifying and strategizing which high-growth markets to enter. Data points on GDP per capita, consumer spending, economic stability and demographics are invaluable in determining the potential market size for geographical expansion. Meanwhile, government initiatives like tax benefits, infrastructure spending and investment incentives create attractive conditions for foreign businesses. Lastly, markets with expanding digital economies, strong transportation networks, and technological innovation hubs offer significant potential for growth.

What are the key indicators of high-growth regions?

To successfully identify high-growth regions, businesses must focus on a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators that signal economic vitality and future potential. These indicators vary depending on the sector, but they can be organized into economic, demographic and technological factors.

Economic factors

Rapid GDP (per capita) growth is one of the most critical prerequisites for a high-growth region, as it signals rising incomes, increased consumer spending power, and a favorable environment for businesses to thrive. This growth often attracts investments and fuels further development. Foreign direct investment (FDI) acts as the catalyst, providing the capital, expertise, and technology needed to ignite and sustain economic expansion. Finally, favorable government incentives, such as tax breaks, grants, or subsidies, enhance return on investment (ROI) and create optimal operating conditions for businesses, encouraging both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors.

Another important geographical economic factor is the availability and abundance of raw materials within a region. Areas rich in natural resources—such as minerals, timber, natural gas, and other essential commodities—offer a robust foundation for industries reliant on these inputs. This abundance not only reduces production costs but also creates opportunities for manufacturers to establish themselves close to sources of raw materials. Furthermore, regions with significant natural resource wealth often attract infrastructure development and supportive industries, amplifying their appeal to investors and businesses across various sectors.

Demographic factors

Whether as a manufacturer, technology provider, or even a retailer, the demographic profile of a particular region acts as a magnet, attracting consumers and shaping business strategies. Understanding the demographic makeup of a target market can significantly impact how products and services are tailored to meet the needs of that audience.

Key metrics such as population growth, age structure, degree of urbanization, middle-class size, and the presence of a highly skilled workforce are essential drivers of growth. These factors not only fuel customer demand but also create opportunities for market expansion and innovation, allowing businesses to establish a competitive edge. For example, a growing middle class often indicates increased purchasing power, making it a lucrative target for consumer goods and services.

Within a particular demographic, the availability of a skilled and efficient workforce plays a pivotal role in ensuring operational success. A well-trained workforce contributes to productivity gains and helps businesses achieve external economies of scale. For instance, Ireland's thriving software industry cluster benefits from a steady pipeline of talent, supported by its robust network of research centers and universities. The presence of such infrastructure not only aids in workforce development but also fosters collaboration, innovation, and long-term growth.

Technological factors

Technological and infrastructure development serves as the cornerstone of market expansion, enabling businesses to scale operations and innovate effectively. Key technological characteristics, such as digital adoption, widespread internet connectivity, and the establishment of innovation hubs, create a fertile environment for companies looking to expand their reach while benefiting from accelerated research and development (R&D).

For instance, India’s booming technology sector exemplifies this trend. Powered by a young, digitally savvy workforce, widespread smartphone penetration, and government incentives focused on engineering R&D, India has become a global hotspot for technological growth. The government has implemented policies that encourage foreign investments and partnerships in the tech sector, further fueling its rapid expansion. According to predictions, the Indian tech industry is expected to grow by 5.1% by FY25, reaching an estimated $300 billion in revenue, highlighting its role as a driving force for global technological advancement. This growth underscores how a strong technological foundation can transform a nation into a key player in the global market.

How to assess regional potential

Assessing the potential of a region for business expansion involves a detailed evaluation of several interdependent factors. By following a systematic approach, businesses can effectively identify areas that align with their growth objectives and mitigate potential risks. Below are key steps to evaluate regional potential:

1. Evaluate the region's operating environment

Start by assessing whether the region's operating environment is conducive to growth and expansion. Look into factors like government support, such as tax incentives, grants, or subsidies that could ease financial pressures and encourage investment. Additionally, consider the overall cost of entering the region, including setup expenses, labor costs, and infrastructure availability. Evaluate the ease of conducting business in the region; factors like political stability, access to resources, and logistical efficiency play a key role in determining whether the region is primed for growth. These elements will provide critical insights into whether the environment supports your business's expansion goals.

2. Conduct thorough market research

Use market research to gather detailed answers about the region’s market conditions, consumer base, and potential revenue streams. Dive into industry-specific trends and analyze the demand for your products or services. For instance, if you are a microchip manufacturer, identify and explore downstream markets like AI technologies, motor vehicle manufacturing, and the consumer electronics sector. These industries rely heavily on microchips, meaning their growth could translate into lucrative opportunities for your business. Additionally, evaluate market size, growth forecasts, and any emerging trends that could give you a competitive edge.

3. Analyze consumer needs and spending patterns

Understanding the local consumer base is essential, especially when expanding into international markets. Dive deeper into factors such as the cost of living, growth in disposable incomes, and consumer sentiment toward different products or services. For example, assess whether the region’s consumers are price-sensitive or value premium goods. Look into cultural preferences, purchasing habits, and any emerging trends that align with your offerings. This level of understanding will help you shape your product positioning, tailor your marketing strategy, and gauge the potential for long-term success in the region.

4. Examine the regulatory and business environment

Thoroughly assess the region’s regulatory landscape to determine its attractiveness and feasibility for business operations. Look into tax policies, such as low corporate tax rates, as well as trade agreements that facilitate frictionless cross-border transactions. Favorable legal and regulatory structures, such as those that reduce bureaucratic red tape or offer investor protection, are also advantageous. For example, the reduction in corporation tax in the US under the Trump administration was a calculated move to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and stimulate economic growth. By understanding these factors, you can minimize compliance risks and develop a strategy that works within local legal frameworks.

5. Assess the competitive landscape

Take a close look at the competition already present in the region. Identify the dominant players, their market share, and their strengths. Evaluate whether there are significant barriers to entry, such as economies of scale enjoyed by larger competitors, or if there are untapped niches or market gaps that your business can fill. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs), entering a market dominated by established companies can be particularly challenging, so consider whether your unique value proposition is strong enough to differentiate you from the rest. This analysis will help you determine how to position your business and whether the market offers viable opportunities to thrive.

Effective strategies for expanding into high-growth regions

There are many ways to expand into a new region, depending on the nature of the business. Expanding into new regions requires a tailored approach, reflective of your business structure, your target market, your budget and the resources you require to enter a new geography.

Customizing a market entry strategy is multifaceted. Firstly, prospective entrants need to consider whether they want to invest directly by setting up new manufacturing facilities or local offices or if they wish to partner with local businesses. Industry research can provide a comprehensive understanding of the operating conditions, cost structure of a particular region and industry, and the barriers to entry if a company wants to set up a new office.

We've already touched on some examples of companies successfully expanding in or into high-growth regions, including the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and ASOS. The former leveraged external economies of scale to establish and benefit from a booming chip manufacturing corridor, while the latter exploited consumer preference for affordable online shopping across numerous continents.

However, what is another example of company that has successfully identified a high-growth region, used market research to assess the region's potential and employed effective strategies to overcome entry challenges, all with the aid of industry research?

Enter Gymshark. The UK's fastest-growing company in 2016 successfully expanded into the US as part of its retail expansion strategy, capitalising on a growing market for sports clothing and sports participation. With the US representing the biggest fitness market in the world, Gymshark saw a lucrative opportunity for global expansion. Using data-driven insights, Gymshark was able to evaluate the US's downstream market potential. Here are a couple of factors that made the region so attractive:

1. Growing consumer demand: An increasing amount of sports participation and a large number of fitness influencers meant that Gymshark could expand its strong social media presence at low costs while catering to cultural nuances. This strategy allowed Gymshark to aggressively penetrate the fast-growing US Online Sports Apparel industry via digital engagement.

2. Supply chain advantages: Gymshark's robust, vertically integrated supply chain supported the establishment of its first US warehouse in Rialto in 2021, allowing it to penetrate the online sporting clothing market, along with its global logistics and transport partnership with DSV.
3. Growth opportunities in a competitive landscape: In a market dominated by premium-priced brands like Nike and Adidas, Gymshark identified a crucial gap: affordability. By offering high-quality, stylish fitness apparel at a more accessible price point, the brand carved out a strong niche in the competitive athletic wear industry.
4. Low barriers to entry: Backed by substantial financial resources, brand power and a substantial online presence, Gymshark overcame barriers to entry, including initial investment in inventory, warehousing, website development, and digital marketing.

How does industry research come into the mix? Gymshark needed to assess the competitive landscape of the US market, leveraging tools to determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of existing players in the market. Industry research reports also provide insight into upstream operating conditions, looking at the cost structure of incumbent athletic clothing manufacturers in the US to determine how Gymshark could remain price-competitive across the supply chain.

In a similar light, market research also provided insight into the downstream market size for fitness clothing, key demographic trends and key buying industries to judge whether these markets are growing and whether the opportunities outweigh the threats associated with geographic expansion into the US.

The outcome? The US has cemented its position as Gymshark’s largest market, growing by 9.7% in 2023. Further expansion is taking place over 2025, opening its first-ever flagship store in the US later this year. Not only has Gymshark successfully penetrated the US market, but it has huge plans to reach double-digit growth across North America over the coming years, elevating its market share in a competitive but growing market for fitness apparel.