India is one of the most complex markets in the world. Consumer preferences change quickly, regional behavior varies widely, and competition is intense across every industry. In such an environment, businesses can no longer rely on assumptions or gut feelings to make decisions. This is why market research companies in India play a critical role, they help brands understand real customer behavior, identify opportunities, reduce risks, and make informed strategic choices.
Whether you are a startup validating a new idea, an SME planning expansion, or a large enterprise refining brand strategy, choosing the right market research partner can directly impact your growth outcomes. However, with dozens of agencies offering different services, technologies, and pricing models, finding the right fit is not easy. This guide breaks down the top market research companies in India, what they specialize in, who they are best suited for, and how to choose one based on your business needs, so you can invest in insights that actually drive results.
Market Research in India – What’s Changing
Before we jump into the companies, here’s why market research matters today more than ever:
- India’s digital economy continues to expand, increasing online consumer behavior insights
- Brands rely heavily on data-driven decisions
- AI, automation, and predictive analytics now shape research decisions
- Businesses need faster, more accurate, and more actionable insights
Types of Market Research Services These Companies Offer
Most leading market research firms in India provide services such as:
- Quantitative Research – Uses large-scale surveys and structured data to measure consumer behavior, preferences, and market trends with statistical accuracy.
- Qualitative Research – Focuses on in-depth interviews and focus groups to understand consumer motivations, opinions, and emotional drivers.
- Brand & Consumer Insights – Helps businesses understand brand perception, customer loyalty, and how audiences view them versus competitors.
- Product & Concept Testing – Evaluates product ideas, features, pricing, and usability before launch to reduce risk and improve success rates.
- Market Entry & Feasibility Research – Assesses demand, competition, and risks when entering new markets or launching in new regions.
- Customer Experience & Journey Mapping – Tracks customer interactions across touchpoints to identify pain points and improve overall experience.
- Data Analytics, AI & Predictive Research – Uses advanced analytics and AI to forecast trends, optimize decisions, and predict future consumer behavior.
Knowing what you need makes choosing a company much easier.
How to Choose the Right Market Research Company in India
Don’t just pick the biggest name, choose the right one for your needs. Consider:
- Do they understand your industry?
- Are their methodologies modern & tech-driven?
- Do they provide insights or just raw data?
- Do they have case studies or proven results?
- Are they budget-friendly or premium focused?
- Do they cover pan-India & tier-2/3 cities?
- Do they ensure data privacy & compliance?
List of 14 Top Market Research Companies in India
1. Nielsen India
Website: https://www.nielsen.com/
Nielsen India is one of the most trusted names in the global market research ecosystem, with a strong footprint across Indian cities. The company specializes in retail measurement, consumer behavior tracking, audience research, and analytics-driven decision support. Known for its vast data coverage and accurate insights, it helps brands understand what consumers buy, watch, and prefer. Nielsen’s technology-backed platforms enable brands to analyze trends faster and more confidently. With decades of experience, it supports major FMCG, retail, and media brands in India. For large organizations looking for reliable, scalable insights, Nielsen remains a preferred partner.
Best For:
Large enterprises, FMCG, retail, media analytics
Industries Served:
Retail, FMCG, Media, Consumer Goods
Key Strengths
- World-class consumer data systems
- Retail measurement insights
- Strong analytics & forecasting
Why Choose Them
- Extremely reliable insights
- Global standards with strong India presence
- Ideal for brands needing large-scale data intelligence
Suggest Read :-
EdTech Companies in Bangalore.
AI Development Companies in India
2. Kantar
Website: https://www.kantar.com/
Kantar is globally recognized for its strong expertise in brand research, advertising testing, and consumer insights. Among the leading Market Research Companies in India, Kantar works closely with top brands to help them understand market perception, communication effectiveness, and consumer psychology. The company blends traditional market research with digital intelligence and data analytics. It is particularly strong in strategic consulting and brand equity studies. Kantar’s research helps brands strengthen positioning, refine marketing strategies, and drive measurable growth. Known for premium-quality insights, it is widely trusted by enterprise-level businesses.
Best For:
Brand strategy, advertising insights, enterprise research
Industries:
FMCG, Advertising, Consumer Behavior
Key Strengths
- Deep expertise in brand equity research
- Advanced digital research methodologies
Why Choose Them
- Strong strategic insights
- Trusted by leading global brands
3. Ipsos India
Website: https://www.ipsos.com/en-in
Ipsos India is known for its balanced combination of strong qualitative and quantitative research capabilities. The company specializes in market understanding, consumer segmentation, brand health monitoring, and opinion research. With a strong team and advanced analytical tools, Ipsos delivers deep, actionable insights rather than just raw data. The firm works across sectors like FMCG, healthcare, automotive, tech, and services. Ipsos is widely appreciated for its accuracy, strategic depth, and practical recommendations. Businesses looking to understand real consumer emotions and perceptions find Ipsos highly valuable.
Best For:
Deep consumer understanding, segmentation, brand health
Industries:
FMCG, Healthcare, Tech, Automotive
Key Strengths
- Strong qualitative + quantitative skills
- Excellent brand health tracking
Why Choose Them
- Strong strategic interpretation
- Great for brand perception & insights
4. Market Xcel
Website: https://www.market-xcel.com/
Market Xcel is one of the strongest Market Research Companies in India, with an excellent understanding of Indian consumers. The agency covers metro cities as well as tier-2 and tier-3 regions, offering deep local insights many global firms miss. It delivers research solutions across brand studies, product testing, market entry strategy, and consumer attitude research. With strong field teams and tech-enabled methodologies, Market Xcel ensures reliable data collection. The company is also known for being flexible and cost-effective compared to global giants. It’s a great fit for both SMEs and large brands looking for practical, India-focused insights.
Best For:
Indian consumer research, brands expanding in India
Industries:
FMCG, Retail, E-commerce
Key Strengths
- Strong local market knowledge
- Great coverage including tier-2 / tier-3 cities
Why Choose Them
- More cost-effective than global giants
- Strong on-ground research network
5. Majestic MRSS
Website: https://mrssindia.com/
Majestic MRSS is known for its innovative research approach, blending modern technologies with strong traditional research systems. The company is widely active across Asia and has a powerful presence in India. It offers services across consumer insights, healthcare research, automotive studies, and customized research projects. The agency focuses heavily on technology, including video insights, neuroscience tools, and interactive methodologies. Brands prefer Majestic MRSS for its agility, customization, and responsiveness. It is ideal for businesses looking for high-quality yet flexible research support.
Best For:
Customized research projects & innovation-driven brands
Key Strengths
- Modern techniques & tech-enabled approach
- Good balance of quality & pricing
Why Choose Them
- Good for brands needing agile research
- Flexible engagement style
6. Blueocean Market Intelligence
Website: https://www.blueocean.ai/
Blueocean Market Intelligence stands out as a data-driven, analytics-powered market research company. It specializes in advanced analytics, customer intelligence, and AI-backed insight generation. The company supports brands in understanding consumer journeys, market opportunities, competition, and business risks. Its research approach goes beyond basic surveys and focuses on predictive decision-making. Blueocean works closely with digitally driven and innovation-focused brands. If a business wants deep analytics and strong data visualization support, Blueocean is a great choice.
Best For:
Data-driven brands & analytics-focused businesses
Key Strengths
- AI-driven analytics
- Predictive consumer intelligence
Why Choose Them
- Great for data-heavy decision-making
- Strong dashboards & reporting
7. YouGov
Website : https://yougov.com/
YouGov is globally known for its strong online research, public opinion tracking, and digital audience insights, making it one of the trusted Market Research Companies in India. In India, YouGov provides valuable data on consumer sentiment, market trends, brand perception, and behavioral patterns. The company works through powerful online panels, ensuring fast turnaround and reliable responses. It is widely used by brands, media houses, political analysts, and research-driven organizations. YouGov dashboards and analytics tools make insights easy to interpret and apply. It is an excellent fit for brands wanting quick, modern, and technology-backed research outcomes.
Best For:
Online audience insights, public perception, polling
Key Strengths
- Strong digital research
- Excellent in opinion + behavior tracking
Why Choose Them
- Fast, digital-first, highly insightful data
8. Hansa Research
Website: hansaresearch.com
Hansa Research is one of India’s oldest independent market research agencies, trusted for its strong credibility and expertise. The company is known for large-scale consumer studies, media research, brand perception research, and customized business solutions. It has worked with some of India’s biggest brands across sectors like FMCG, retail, automotive, and services. The agency blends traditional research depth with evolving modern methodologies. Hansa is respected for its disciplined research processes and reliable findings. It is ideal for businesses looking for strong Indian market understanding and powerful strategic insights.
Best For:
Brand research, media research, large-scale consumer studies
Industries:
FMCG, Media, Retail, Automotive
Key Strengths
- Strong expertise in brand & advertising research
- One of India’s oldest independent MR agencies
- Known for large national studies
Why Choose Them
- Deep understanding of Indian consumer mindset
- Strong research credibility
9. RNB Research
Website: rnbresearch.com
RNB Research is a global market research company with major operations across Asia and Africa, including a solid base in India. It specializes in consumer research, B2B studies, healthcare research, automotive research, and customer experience projects. The company is especially strong in multi-country research assignments. With strong data collection expertise and structured methodologies, it helps brands make confident global expansion decisions. Businesses appreciate RNB for its accuracy, responsiveness, and research depth. It’s a great option for brands needing India + international insights together.
Best For:
International research + India + Asian market insights
Industries:
FMCG, Healthcare, Automotive, Technology
Key Strengths
- Operates across multiple countries in Asia & Africa
- Strong fieldwork & primary research capability
Why Choose Them
- Good for companies needing multi-country research including India
- Trusted for reliable consumer insights
10. Unimrkt Research
Website: unimrkt.com
Unimrkt Research is one of the leading Market Research Companies in India, particularly well-known for its strong B2B research capability along with consumer and healthcare insights. The company excels in CATI research, telephone surveys, online studies, and global data collection. It serves industries like IT, healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, and enterprise sectors. Unimrkt is trusted for delivering clean, verified, and high-quality data. The company is also known for smooth communication and professional project handling, making it especially valuable for organizations needing reliable business-to-business research support.
Best For:
B2B research, CATI surveys, global and India-focused research
Industries:
IT, Healthcare, Manufacturing, BFSI
Key Strengths
- Strong B2B panel reach
- Excellent telephone & online data collection capabilities
Why Choose Them
- Great option for B2B brands
- Reliable and quality-driven research delivery
11. ValueNotes
Website: valuenotes.biz
ValueNotes is highly respected in India for its strong expertise in market intelligence, competitive research, and industry analysis. Unlike standard survey companies, it focuses deeply on strategic insights and business intelligence. The firm supports decision-makers with accurate market sizing, competitor benchmarking, and opportunity assessments. ValueNotes works with BFSI, manufacturing, technology, education, and consulting industries. Businesses choose ValueNotes when they want clarity for serious strategic moves. It is one of the best options for knowledge-driven corporate research.
Best For:
Market intelligence, competitive research, industry research
Industries:
BFSI, Manufacturing, Tech, Education
Key Strengths
- Strong secondary research & intelligence-driven reports
- Known for high-quality business insights
Why Choose Them
- Best for strategic & industry-focused insights
- Strong research credibility
12. Borderless Access
Website: borderlessaccess.com
Borderless Access is a digital-first market research company specializing in online research and global consumer panels. It offers strong audience reach not just in India but across multiple international markets. The company is highly experienced in digital sampling, perception research, brand analytics, and behavior tracking. Borderless Access leverages advanced technology platforms to deliver quick, data-rich insights. It is particularly useful for brands needing fast results and tech-enabled research execution. Digital brands, media companies, and global organizations benefit greatly from their capabilities.
Best For:
Digital research, online consumer panels, global digital sampling
Industries:
FMCG, E-commerce, Tech, Media
Key Strengths
- Strong online panels across India and globally
- Tech-enabled research execution
Why Choose Them
- Perfect for fast digital insights
- Great for opinion, perception & behavior analysis
13. Kadence International India
Website: kadence.com
Kadence International India is a full-service research agency offering a strong mix of qualitative and quantitative research. The company helps brands with consumer insights, brand research, product testing, and market strategy development. Known for its structured approach and strategic thinking, Kadence delivers insights that are easy to implement. It works across FMCG, healthcare, retail, tech, and service sectors. Clients appreciate its professionalism, depth of analysis, and clarity of reporting. Kadence is a great balance between quality, innovation, and cost efficiency.
Best For:
End-to-end qualitative + quantitative consumer research
Industries:
FMCG, Healthcare, Tech, Retail
Key Strengths
- Strong strategic research capability
- Good mix of modern + traditional methodologies
Why Choose Them
- Excellent balance between quality & cost
- Great client servicing & insight delivery
14. Entropik
Website: entropik.io
Entropik is a next-generation, AI-powered market research company and one of the leading Market Research Companies in India, specializing in emotional analytics and behavior intelligence. It uses advanced technology like facial coding, emotion recognition, eye tracking, and neuroscience analytics. Entropik helps brands understand how consumers truly feel about ads, content, UX experiences, and products. This gives businesses deeper emotional insight beyond standard survey responses. The company is widely used by digital-first brands, media houses, tech firms, and global enterprises. If a brand wants futuristic, tech-driven consumer understanding, Entropik is one of the best choices.
Best For:
AI-based emotional analytics & consumer behavior insights
Industries:
Tech, Media, FMCG, Digital products
Key Strengths
- Uses AI, facial coding, emotion recognition & neuroscience insights
- Modern, tech-first research approach
Why Choose Them
- Great for digital-first brands
- Perfect for testing ads, content, UX, and experiences
Pricing – How Much Does Market Research Cost in India?
Pricing varies based on:
- Scope of research
- Sample size
- Number of cities
- Research method (online/offline)
- Duration
- Required technology & analytics
Approximate Cost Expectations
- Small Businesses / Startups: ₹80,000 – ₹3 Lakhs
- Mid-Sized Businesses: ₹3 Lakhs – ₹12 Lakhs
- Enterprise Research Projects: ₹12 Lakhs – ₹50 Lakhs+
Note: Exact cost depends on the project, but this gives buyers clarity (which most blogs fail to do).
Where Do These Companies Help in Real Life?
Market research firms are extremely useful when you are:
- Launching a new product
- Entering a new market or city
- Understanding why sales are dropping
- Improving customer experience
- Testing advertisements before spending
- Understanding brand perception
- Identifying new opportunities
If data drives your business decisions, you need research.
Who Should Hire a Market Research Company?
- Startups validating ideas
- SMEs wanting structured growth
- Large enterprises refining strategy
- FMCG, Healthcare, Tech, Retail, Finance, E-commerce brands
- Companies entering new regions
Basically: Anyone who wants to grow smart, not blindly.
Final Thoughts
India is one of the most diverse and complex markets in the world. Choosing the right market research company in India can help you understand your customers better, reduce risks, build stronger strategies, and grow confidently.
Instead of picking the biggest name, choose a partner that aligns with:
- Your budget
- Your industry
- Your research goals
- Your growth stage
That’s the real winning strategy.
FAQs
1. Which Is The Best Market Research Company In India?
Global leaders like Nielsen, Kantar, and Ipsos are top-tier. For cost-effective Indian expertise, Market Xcel and similar firms are great choices.
2. How Do I Choose The Right Market Research Firm?
Check experience, industry expertise, technology, case studies, pricing transparency, and ability to provide actionable insights.
3. What Is The Cost of Market Research In India?
Anywhere between ₹80,000 to ₹50 Lakhs+, depending on scale, methodology, and brand level.
4. Do These Companies Work Across India?
Yes, most top companies work pan-India including metro + tier-2 / tier-3 cities.
5. Do Small Businesses Also Need Market Research?
Absolutely. It helps validate decisions and avoid costly failures.
6. How Long Does a Research Project Take?
Anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on complexity.
