Global Business Outlook Survey of Senior Executives 2013-2014 is a new market research report that analyzes how companies' procurement expenditures, business strategies, media spend, marketing and sales strategies and practices, and business planning are set to change in 2013-2014. This report is the result of an extensive survey of an exclusive panel of leading global senior level executives from industries such as such as mining, medical devices, food and beverage, packaging, power, airports, oil and gas and pharmaceutical.

An analysis of revenue growth expectations by senior level respondents reveals that 55% are 'more optimistic' about their company's revenue growth in 2013. A significant percentage of senior level respondents highlighted capital expenditure towards new product development, employee training and IT infrastructure development. Senior level respondents identified 'focus sales efforts on generating new business', 'trial new and innovative products in the market' and 'focus sales efforts on existing markets' as key areas where companies intend to change strategies. A total of 21% of senior level respondents anticipate a minimum of 2% increase of their current workforce in 2013. Survey results show that, senior level respondents identified the US, Singapore, Taiwan and Hong Kong and Canada to offer the highest growth potential among developed countries in 2013-2014.

Overall, senior level executives anticipate an increase in levels of consolidation with 62% of respondents expecting an increase in MandA activity in 2013. Cost and demand pressures, repayment of debt, and the potential need to meet new compliance procedures are key drivers behind recent market changes as per this survey report. In addition, quick access to new markets, business expansion, and attempts to increase market share which are easily achievable through MandA are key reasons for increase in consolidation levels according to senior executives. China, Brazil, India and the Middle East are the important emerging markets to offer growth in 2013. 'Market uncertainty', 'responding to pricing pressure' and 'cost containment' remain the leading business concerns for 2013. Overall, for 2013, the average size of the annual procurement budget identified by senior level executives across industries is projected at US$81 million, while the annual marketing budget is identified at US$2 million. 'Level of service', 'price' and 'proven track record' remains the leading business concerns across industries in 2013. 'Competitor and market intelligence research' and 'customer intelligence and analytics' were identified as the marketing and sales solutions most expected to be invested during 2013.