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CIRQ Announces Certification of L&E Research to ISO 20252 Standard

DWG Admin on July 3, 2025

CIRQ, an accredited International Standards Organization (ISO) audit and certification body and subsidiary of the Insights Association, has announced that L&E Research, headquartered in Raleigh, NC, has been officially certified to the ISO 20252:2019 standard for market, opinion, and social research, including insights and data analytics.


The ISO 20252:2019 standard defines internationally recognized requirements for managing research projects with transparency, consistency, and rigor. It establishes clear definitions, controls, and quality assurance measures for every phase of research, across all methodologies and data sources. By implementing the full scope of ISO 20252 requirements, organizations demonstrate a strong commitment to deliverable, reliable, traceable, auditable research outcomes.
L&E Research’s certification includes all six annexes of the ISO 20252:2019 standard, covering qualitative research, quantitative research, digital observation, self-completion methods, data management and processing, and physical observation.

“Achieving ISO 20252 certification reflects our deep commitment to quality, consistency, and operational transparency across every project we manage,” said Tracy Isacco, President at L&E Research. “This certification goes beyond meeting a global standard; it reinforces the confidence our clients place in us by ensuring their insights are built on validated, well-documented processes. When combined with our ISO 27001 certification, it underscores our promise to protect both the quality of research and the security of information at every stage”

L&E Research is one of only a few organizations worldwide to hold certifications in both ISO 20252:2019 and ISO/IEC 27001:2013, the globally recognized standard for information security management. This dual certification positions L&E among an elite group of insights partners who meet the highest thresholds for data security and research quality.

About L&E Research

Since 1984, L&E has successfully recruited consumers, healthcare professionals, and business professionals for virtually every type of market research project. Fueled by a belief that great conversations are facilitated by a combination of human talent and technology, the company has grown to establish and operate facilities in Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Denver, New York, Orlando, Raleigh, and Tampa.

About CIRQ

A subsidiary of the Insights Association, CIRQ (the Certification Institute for Research Quality) was established to provide assessment and certification services to market research firms seeking certification to ISO 20252 and ISO 27001. A non-profit entity, CIRQ is committed to providing timely, thorough, and impartial assessments of its customers’ research process management or information security management systems regarding certification to corresponding standards. CIRQ was established in compliance with all ISO requirements for certification bodies that provide auditing and certification services and is fully accredited by ANSI’s National Accreditation Board. To conform to its mandate of objective and impartial audits to these ISO standards, CIRQ is independently operated and managed under the oversight of an independent Board of Directors and submits to annual assessments by external authorities on ISO certification bodies.

For further information, please contact:
Kelli Hammock
720.370.3423
L&E Research
www.leresearch.com

L&E Research and Adrich.io Partner to Elevate Consumer Insights with Real-Time Behavioral Data

DWG Admin on April 25, 2025

Raleigh, NC – April 24, 2025 – L&E Research, a leader in market research and consumer insights, today announced a strategic partnership with Adrich, a technology platform that provides real-time product consumption data across a range of consumer products. This collaboration will deliver deeper, data-driven intelligence for brands in the consumer-packaged goods (CPG) industry, enhancing strategic decision-making and product innovation.

Closing the Gap Between Reported and Real-World Behavior

Traditional market research often relies on recall-based feedback, which can be inconsistent. By integrating Adrich’s smart-label technology with L&E’s qualitative expertise, brands will gain passive, real-time insights into actual product usage, reducing participant burden and improving data accuracy.

Enhancing Home Use Testing (HUTs) and Qualitative Research

L&E’s research methodologies will incorporate Adrich’s behavioral tracking, allowing brands to bridge episodic memory gaps and gain a holistic view of consumer behavior. This enables more precise, in-the-moment data collection that improves product testing and development.

Empowering Smarter Business Decisions

Through this partnership, brands will benefit from more accurate consumer insights that help refine brand messaging, optimize customer experiences, and drive stronger market success. This integration of behavioral data with qualitative research methodologies marks a new era in consumer research.

“We are thrilled to partner with Adrich to redefine how businesses access and utilize market research,” said Brett Watkins, CEO of L&E Research. “By combining our expertise in consumer insights with their cutting-edge analytics, we can deliver actionable intelligence that drives smarter business decisions.”

Accelerating Product Innovation

Understanding how, when, and why consumers interact with products allows businesses to make more informed decisions on design, packaging, and messaging. This partnership provides brands with real-world, data-driven insights that translate into competitive market advantages.

Adhithi Aji, CEO of Adrich, added, “This partnership enhances our ability to offer clients a fully integrated research solution. By working with L&E, we provide businesses with the tools they need to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive environment.”

Next Steps in Consumer Research Evolution

The partnership will roll out immediately, focusing on platform integration to provide clients with real-time, in-the-moment product consumption data. Together, L&E Research and Adrich are setting a new standard in data-driven consumer insights.

About L&E Research

Founded in 1984, L&E Research specializes in connecting clients with the right participants for market research studies, providing trusted insights that drive better business decisions. Serving a diverse range of industries including healthcare, legal/jury research, consumer packaged goods (CPG), and sensory testing, L&E Research prides itself on its ability to facilitate meaningful conversations between companies and their customers. With state-of-the-art facilities located in Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Denver, New York, Orlando, Raleigh, and Tampa, L&E Research is committed to leading the field in market research innovation and client service.

About Adrich.io

Adrich provides real-time consumer usage data through smart-label technology, enabling brands to gain more accurate insights and improve decision-making for better customer experiences.

For further information, please contact:
Kelli Hammock
720.370.3423
L&E Research

L&E Research Opens New Chicago Facility for Medical Simulations

DWG Admin on October 8, 2024

Chicago, IL – Tuesday, October 7 – L&E Research, a leading provider dedicated to connecting companies with their customers, announces the opening of its new facility in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. Located on the prestigious Magnificent Mile, this state-of-the-art facility spans over 10,000 square feet and is designed to foster innovative research with a specialized focus on medical simulations.

The new facility boasts five meticulously designed rooms, each equipped to handle a variety of research needs with cutting-edge technology and flexible configurations. A highlight of the new location is the advanced medical simulation lab, which offers unique opportunities for healthcare research, product testing, and user experience studies.
Strategically positioned in downtown Chicago, the facility is just blocks away from major landmarks such as the Hancock Building and Navy Pier, and is conveniently accessible by multiple public transportation options. Parking will be readily available in a nearby garage, ensuring that visiting the facility is hassle-free for clients and research participants. With its prime location, advanced facilities, and convenient transportation options, L&E Research’s new Chicago office is poised to become a hub for market research in the Midwest.
“Opening this new facility on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile allows us to tap into the vibrant pulse of the city, making it easier for participants to reach us from any direction and ensuring that we continue to attract a diverse range of study participants,” said Tracy Isacco, President of L&E Research.

About L&E Research

Founded in 1984, L&E Research specializes in connecting clients with the right participants for market research studies, providing trusted insights that drive better business decisions. Serving a diverse range of industries including healthcare, legal/jury research, consumer packaged goods (CPG), and sensory testing, L&E Research prides itself on its ability to facilitate meaningful conversations between companies and their customers. With state-of-the-art facilities located in Charlotte, Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Denver, New York, Orlando, Raleigh, and Tampa, L&E Research is        committed to leading the field in market research innovation and client service.

For further information, please contact:

Kelli Hammock
720.370.3423
L&E Research
www.leresearch.com

L&E research unveils new visual identity focused on putting people first

DWG Admin on September 9, 2024

Raleigh, NC – September 9, 2024 – L&E Research, a leading provider dedicated to connecting companies with their customers, today announces the launch of its new visual identity. The fresh look reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and a people-centered approach. It is the first step in a brand evolution to build on several strategic developments which will be announced in the coming weeks.

Brett Watkins, CEO of L&E Research, highlighted the human element behind the rebranding, reflecting on the company’s dedication to fostering genuine connections:
“Our focus has always been on the people—both the participants in our studies and the clients we serve. This new logo embodies the warmth and approachability that we strive to bring to every interaction. It’s a visual reminder that, at L&E Research, we’re not just about data; we’re about the people behind the data.”
The new logo is set to appear across all L&E Research’s platforms, including its website, social media channels, and email communications, beginning September 9th. The soft-launch strategy ensures a seamless transition as the company prepares for its official rebrand unveiling.
 

 

About L&E Research

Founded in 1984, L&E Research specializes in connecting clients with the right participants for market research studies, providing trusted insights that drive better business decisions. Serving a diverse range of industries including healthcare, legal/jury research, consumer packaged goods (CPG), and sensory testing, L&E Research prides itself on its ability to facilitate meaningful conversations between companies and their customers. With state-of-the-art facilities located in Charlotte, Cincinnati, Columbus, Denver, New York, Orlando, Raleigh, and Tampa, L&E Research is committed to leading the field in market research innovation and client service.

For further information, please contact:

Kelli Hammock
720.370.3423
L&E Research
www.leresearch.com

L&E Research Is Relocating Its Facility In Columbus, Ohio

DWG Admin on August 27, 2024

Columbus, OH — L&E Research, a leading provider dedicated to connecting companies with the voices of their customers, is relocating its Columbus facility to a new, state-of-the-art complex designed to significantly enhance service offerings and participant accessibility. The new facility, conveniently located just off I-270 and Sawmill Road, is scheduled to open its doors in early September 2024.

The centerpiece of the new L&E Research facility is its innovative test kitchen, which will support advanced food testing research. This modern kitchen will include high-end amenities such as a walk-in cooler and walk-in freezer, setting the stage for cutting-edge culinary research and consumer testing.

Located in a vibrant area bustling with restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers, the facility ensures convenience for both participants and clients, making it a prime destination for market research in Columbus. The site offers ample parking and is easily accessible from any part of the city, promising a seamless visit for all attendees.

The new facility will feature three focus rooms: Buckeye, Columbus, and Capital, with the Buckeye Room being notably larger, reflecting the diverse needs of research projects. Additionally, the facility will be equipped with a cutting-edge tech system for streaming and recording sessions, mirroring the advanced capabilities in all of L&E Research’s nationwide facility locations.

Brett, CEO of L&E Research, added, “With this new facility, we are not just expanding our space; we are elevating the experiences we can offer to our clients and research participants. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to being at the forefront of market research by integrating state-of-the-art technology and facilities.”

L&E Research welcomes clients and the broader research community in Columbus. Please connect with us to schedule your tour of our new facility!

 

About L&E Research

Founded in 1984, L&E Research specializes in connecting clients with the right participants for market research studies, providing trusted insights that drive better business decisions. Serving a diverse range of industries including healthcare, legal/jury research, consumer packaged goods (CPG), and sensory testing, L&E Research prides itself on its ability to facilitate meaningful conversations between companies and their customers. With state-of-the-art facilities located in Charlotte, Cincinnati, Columbus, Denver, New York, Orlando, Raleigh, and Tampa, L&E Research is committed to leading the field in market research innovation and client service.

Contact

Kelli Hammock
720.370.3423
L&E Research
www.leresearch.com

L&E is proud to announce their partnership with UGA’s MMR

DWG Admin on July 22, 2024

Raleigh, NC, August 1, 2024

L&E Research is delighted to become the newest advisory board member and valued partner of the University of Georgia’s Master of Marketing Research Program at Terry College of Business. As a leader in qualitative research, L&E Research is excited to contribute to this globally renowned program. The partnership is focused on providing exceptionally high-quality, qualitative recruitment and field management services to support UGA MMR students on an annual basis. This represents L&E Research’s second collaboration with an educational institution: The University of Georgia, which educates the next generation of market researchers, now joins the MRII program, which is responsible for setting the curriculum

Dr. Marcus Cunha Jr., director of the MMR program at UGA, remarked “The partnership between the University of Georgia’s Master of Marketing Research (MMR) and L&E Research will further build upon the world-class education our students receive. With our students gaining access to L&E’s nationwide network of vetted qualitative participants to complete their coursework, the applications for their education will only increase.”
Tracy Isacco, President of L&E Research adds, “We are excited to join forces with UGA’s MMR program, a trailblazer in market research education. By supporting the development of future researchers, we are investing in their professional success and the advancement of our industry. This partnership allows us to deepen our connection with a prestigious institution and reinforces our commitment to fostering academic excellence and social responsibility at both local and national levels.”
The partnership with L&E Research is part of UGA MMR’s ongoing pursuit to provide the best and most innovative resources possible to future consumer insight leaders. As an advisory board member, L&E Research will join The Coca-Cola Company, Eli Lilly, Microsoft, and many more top companies in helping to train future market researchers.
 

 

About L&E Research

L&E Research is a leading provider of qualitative market research solutions, specializing in participant recruitment and field management services. L&E Research’s dedication to innovation and excellence is reflected in their strategic partnerships and contributions to advancing the field of market research. By joining forces with esteemed educational institutions such as the University of Georgia’s Master of Marketing Research Program and the MRII program, L&E Research continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of market research education and fostering the next generation of research professionals.

Contact

Kelli Hammock
720.370.3423
L&E Research
www.leresearch.com

 

CIRQ ANNOUNCES CERTIFICATION OF L&E RESEARCH TO THE ISO 27001 STANDARD

DWG Admin on September 20, 2023

CIRQ (the Certification Institute for Research Quality), an International Standards Organization (ISO) audit and certification body that is a subsidiary of the Insights Association, has recertified L&E Research to ISO 27001, one of the most widely recognized and internationally accepted information security standards. Accredited certification to ISO 27001 involves undertaking regular reviews and internal audits to ensure the continual improvement of the information security management system (ISMS). Raleigh, North Carolina-based L&E Research’s certification includes offices located in Charlotte, NC; Cincinnati, OH; Columbus, OH; Denver, CO; New York, NY; and Tampa, FL.  The certification will be verified annually by CIRQ’s independent audit establishing continued compliance and protection of data. ISO 27001 provides a framework for companies to manage their data security. It establishes requirements for information controls to manage people, processes, and technology. The standard covers both the technological aspects of security as well as corporate security, physical security, etc., and relies on regular risk assessments enabling a company to consistently identify and treat security threats. ISO 27001 is accepted worldwide as an assurance that proper and continual measures have been taken to protect valuable company data. “Receiving our ISO 27001:2013 certification, which ensures enhanced information security, is a major achievement for L&E Research,” said Tracy Isacco, President. “The brands we work with demand this type of excellence in their market research solutions, and this level of quality is the standard throughout L&E Research.”

About ISO 27001

ISO 27001 provides requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system. The information security management system preserves the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information by applying a risk management process and gives confidence to interested parties that risks are adequately managed. It is important that the information security management system is integrated with the organization’s processes and overall management structure and that information security is considered in the design of processes, information systems, and controls. It is expected that an information security management system implementation will be scaled in accordance with the needs of the organization. This International Standard can be used by internal and external parties to assess the organization’s ability to meet information security requirements. ISO 27001 can be mapped to other information security schemes such as HITRUST, NIST and Soc2. Compliance with the standard also enables a company to meet global security laws, such as the NIS Directive and the GDPR.

About L&E Research

L&E Research is a leading provider of qualitative research. Services include recruitment, focus group facilities, and a host of qualitative technology solutions, allowing clients to connect with customers anywhere, anytime. L&E has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. multiple times. In addition to a Nationwide virtual presence utilizing proprietary panel and technology solutions to connect clients with customers throughout the U.S., L&E has facilities in Charlotte, NC; Cincinnati, OH; Columbus, OH; Denver, CO; New York City, NY; Raleigh, NC and Tampa, FL.

L&E Announces The Launch of Virtual Facility and Reopening of Manhattan Location

DWG Admin on May 18, 2021

May 18, 2021

Raleigh, NC – May 18, 2021 – L&E Research is pleased to announce the launch of its Virtual Facility online solution, as well as the reopening of its NYC location in Midtown Manhattan. Virtual Facility provides an option to host, record, and live stream research virtually, without the need for a physical location or in-person participation. Virtual Facility can be used for focus groups, in-depth interviews, jury research using breakout rooms, HUT research for product testing and more.

“We are really excited to get both of these big projects finally rolling and offered to the market research and UX industries” stated Brett Watkins, CEO and Founder of L&E Research. “Virtual Facility is really a combination of software innovation and can-do spirit by our team to deliver creative solutions to researchers,” said Watkins.

With Virtual Facility, live hosting is provided for the duration of the session to troubleshoot and manage late recruits, update the moderator, and let participants into the session. A variety of platforms are available including Zoom, Adobe Connect, MS Teams, WebEx and more, all of which are secured via a waiting room. Clients can observe and chat with each other during the session. L&E Research will be hosting a webinar on Virtual Facility and it’s suite of solutions on June 23 at 12:00PM EST for those interested in learning more.

“Our clients were seeking help to overcome the challenges presented by the pandemic, and our team listened and guided us to design solutions that clients wanted. Adding video and project management capabilities into our proprietary technology solutions, we’ve been able to help clients engage participants in a variety of ways.” Watkins added, “We’ve also partnered with cutting edge technologies to deliver tools one can’t get from any other company. We’re excited to enable U.S. clients to engage consumers, patients and health care professionals pretty much anywhere, anytime, all in one secure location.”

In addition, L&E Research also announced the opening of their New York City office in Midtown Manhattan. Located on the Club Row on 44th Street, this facility offers five focus suites with one of the largest focus group suites in NYC, perfect for large audience research such as mock trials or theater room set up.

“We actually acquired this company in March of 2020, but the pandemic caused a series of complications that prevented us from opening until now” stated Watkins. “In-person research is getting rolling again, and New York City announced they intend to remove all restrictions on July 1, so it’s the perfect time to let clients know we’re here in Manhattan, along with our network of locations throughout the U.S., to help them discover the magic of in-person qualitative research again!”

Click here to learn more about L&E’s Virtual Facility, or click here to learn more about the NYC facility. You can also call L&E Research at 1-877-344-1574 for more information.

AnchorAbout L&E Research

L&E Research is the leading qualitative research company in the U.S., dedicated to making connections with our community, to facilitate connecting our clients with our community, enabling us to give back to our communities. Services include recruitment, focus group facilities, and a host of qualitative technology solutions, allowing our clients to connect with their customers anywhere, anytime. L&E has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in the U.S. multiple times. In addition to a virtual presence nationwide utilizing proprietary technology solutions to connect clients with customers throughout the U.S., L&E has facilities and/or support services in Austin, TX; Charlotte, NC; Cincinnati, OH; Columbus, OH; Denver, CO; Kansas City, MO; Minneapolis, MN; New York City, NY; Raleigh, NC; San Francisco – East Bay Area, CA; St. Louis, MO and Tampa, FL.

AnchorContact

Kelli Hammock

720.370.3423

L&E Research

www.leresearch.com

L&E Expands To New York City

DWG Admin on May 14, 2020

Raleigh, NC – March 2, 2020 – L&E Research, the preferred choice for qualitative research in the U.S., is pleased to announce its continued expansion with the recent addition of New York Consumer Center in New York, New York. The addition of the midtown Manhattan facility gives L&E Research presence in the Northeast area of the US, in addition to the recent expansions last year in Austin, Texas, Denver, Colorado, Kansas City, Missouri and East Bay Area, California.

“This new location gives us the opportunity to provide clients with qualitative research solutions in a primary market in addition to our eleven other locations covering almost all regions in the United States,” said Brett Watkins, President of L&E Research.

“We are excited to add the impressive New York Consumer Center team to our rapidly growing network of qualitative research solutions. Coupled with our technology partnerships, we now have millions of connections for our clients. We can connect clients with their customers in exciting growth markets that present fresh research in-person or online: anytime, anywhere. We look forward to bringing L&E’s advanced technology solutions to the New York City market to make connections with the community and create conversations that help our clients make better decisions.”

About L&E Research

L&E Research is the leading qualitative research company in the U.S., dedicated to making connections with our community, to facilitate connecting our clients with our community, enabling us to give back to our communities. Services include recruitment, focus group facilities, and a host of qualitative technology solutions, allowing our clients to connect with their customers anywhere, anytime. L&E has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in the U.S. multiple times. In addition to a virtual presence nationwide utilizing proprietary technology solutions to connect clients with customers throughout the U.S., L&E has facilities in 12 markets, including Austin, TX; Cincinnati, OH; Columbus, OH; Charlotte, NC; Denver, CO; Kansas City, MO; Minneapolis, MN; Raleigh, NC; San Francisco – East Bay Area, CA; St. Louis, MO; Tampa, FL; and our new office in New York City.

Contact

Elizabeth Wollenberg
Marketing Manager
L&E Research
919-438-3045
www.leresearch.com

###

L&E Research Announces New Technology Partnerships

DWG Admin on August 31, 2017

August 31, 2017

Raleigh, NC – August 31, 2017 – L&E Research, the preferred choice for recruiting and facilities in the qualitative market research industry, is pleased to announce its new partnerships with leading technology companies Aha!, IDG (Informed Decisions Group), Isobar and LivingLens.

“The latest Corporate Researcher Report from Quirk’s suggests there is a considerable gap between the qualitative methodologies clients are curious about and what they’re actually using. Newer methodologies like virtual reality, biometrics (including neuromarketing), and online qualitative software still face questions from corporate researchers. That gap is continuing to close and companies are looking to find new ways to get answers to their questions better, faster and whenever possible, at a lower cost,” said Brett Watkins, President of L&E Research. “We are excited about these new offerings we can provide to our clients in the methodologies of virtual reality, video analytics, online emotional measurement tools, in-the-moment online tools and L&E’s own 360° streaming.”

“Aha!, IDG, Isobar and LivingLens are the most forward-thinking leaders in qualitative technology, and we’re proud to partner with them to offer our clients a wide array of choices to solve any qualitative research challenge. L&E’s unique team of Research Design Engineers (RDEs) who are trained in the latest qualitative methodologies and the latest technologies used to execute them, help guide clients toward finding the right answers to solve their business problems. With L&E’s combination of talent and technology, we’re a one-stop shop for clients and their qualitative research needs.”

About L&E Research

L&E Research specializes in qualitative research recruitment and provides additional qualitative market research solutions including focus group facilities, online qualitative technologies and more. L&E is headquartered in Raleigh, NC and has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in the U.S. multiple times. In addition to a virtual presence nationwide, L&E has physical office locations in 7 markets, including Cincinnati, OH; Columbus, OH; Charlotte, NC; Minneapolis, MN; Raleigh, NC; St. Louis, MO and Tampa, FL.

Contact

Michelle Landmesser

Vice President of Sales

L&E Research

919-256-9610

www.leresearch.com

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