Mintel has a network of shoppers serving 140 countries worldwide who are responsible for buying new products to support (1) content of the Global New Products Database (GNPD); and (2) product sample and 'at the shelf' research requests. GNPD principally monitors 50 countries, representing the highest propensity for new product development and innovation.

Collection of GNPD's new product launch information is primarily facilitated by a network of field associates (or 'Shoppers') who monitor activity in 40 key categories and 251*sub-categories. Due to GNPD's constant reaction to the development of global markets, the number of sub-categories will vary as new categories evolve and others merge into existing categories. Globally, GNPD shoppers also target major test markets and other key 'launch cities' identified as common ground for new product rollouts.

All key retail distribution channels are monitored by GNPD's shopper network, including supermarkets, drug stores/chemists, natural food stores/health shops, gas stations/petrol forecourts, convenience stores, and other independent outlets.

Field associates ship products into the Mintel offices biweekly, allowing products to appear on GNPD within approximately 1 month of launch or as close to launch as possible. It's important to note that a considerable number of product launches are published on GNPD prior to their official launch date.

Reactive Shopping: Shopping can also occur in reaction to client requests. GNPD's Product Watch facility enables clients to tag GNPD records for which additional information is desired (eg, product image, ingredients, etc). Similarly, if GNPD editors identify a new product through (eg) a media announcement, they will immediately alert shoppers to look for the retail launch, followed by pick-up and subsequent publishing of the product details. Mintel utilizes various other sources to identify new product information (as available and feasible country to country).

Trade shows: GNPD staff attends several key product-focused and/or packaging-focused trade show events – obtaining and reporting on announcements/displays of newly launched, pending, and innovative product/packaging prototypes.

Press Releases: Each month, GNPD receives press releases directly from companies announcing new product launches.

Media: Each month, our global Editorial staff searches over 400 trade and consumer magazines for new product information. Additionally, hundreds of related websites are monitored.

Company Tracking: Our in-house staff checks-in directly with consumer packaged goods companies – through a combination of phone calls and web-site checks – on a monthly basis; staying informed on new product launches/announcements.

Collectively, GNPD reports on an estimated 12,000 new product launches every month.