Trade publications (also referred to as trade press) are periodicals written specifically for participants in the industry; these aren't popular titles designed for a wide general readership. These sources can be easy to miss if you aren't in the habit of using them, but once you know what they have to offer, they become a key step in the research process.

Trade journals frequently contain data that can't be found elsewhere and generally contain articles discussing issues or importance to participants in the industry. They can also contain profiles and reviews. Trade publications can vary considerably in format and contents, but knowing some key titles related to the business or industry you are researching can go a long way.