DTO Research Managing Director Nils Tychewicz interviewed by Trade Talk magazine

Researching markets and providing strategic advice to companies: this is the specialism of Düsseldorf-based DTO. Founded in 2008 by Michael (D)i Figlia, Nils (T)ychewicz and Sebastian (O)denthal, the company now employs 25 people. TradeTalk spoke with Nils Tychewicz, DTO’s CEO, about changing markets.

Which industries do you mainly work in?

Tychewicz: We work in several areas, with four core sectors. Industry is our largest division, covering clients in chemicals, automotive, mechanical engineering and other industrial services. Our Machinery division focuses on markets for construction, agricultural and mining machinery manufacturers. In Cleaning, we are number one in Europe and work for almost all major manufacturers of professional cleaning machines and products. We also have a Medical division, analysing and advising on markets for hospital products, medical electronic equipment and other medical devices.

How much have the new data protection rules affected your work?

Tychewicz: Not very much, really, apart from our internal administration having to create and complete countless forms. As members of the German Association for Market and Social Research, BVM, we already comply with the highest data protection standards.

How do you collect and process your data?

Tychewicz: DTO combines market research and management consulting. Clients call on us when markets lack transparency and decisions are complex. We generate data through a combination of desk research and expert interviews, then use it to develop new strategies for our clients.

What benefits do clients gain from your market and competitive analyses?

Tychewicz: We help protect clients from making the wrong decisions. We also uncover new opportunities.

Do you operate throughout Germany?

Tychewicz: Yes, and worldwide. Very few clients request projects covering only Germany. Most studies are international. We will open our first overseas branch in Singapore at the end of the year, followed by the USA.

Where do you currently see the biggest business challenges for your clients? Digitalisation?

Tychewicz: That depends on the region. But digitalisation and technological transformation are certainly very important, particularly for our automotive clients. Skills shortages also prevent some clients from growing. For too long, this issue was not placed at the top of the priority list. Fortunately, that has now changed.