Market research organisations collect, collate and analyze information that relates to consumer habits and attitudes towards companies, products and market trends. This can be aimed towards the company conducting the research or to give an insight into their competitors place in the market. Often used as the basis for many business plans, market research provides invaluable data for both fledgling and established businesses. The main professional body for market research organisations in the UK is the Market Research Society who operate in over 70 countries and strive to promote best practice amongst their members.