Consumer: investors eye high street healthcare
Following a rough couple of years, the outlook for many businesses in the consumer sector is more positive; some segments of the market are well placed for growth and resilient to macro-economic pressures.
We have recently analysed the market for high street healthcare providers; a market that is better protected from the threats many retail businesses are exposed to. Reasons include:
- purchase triggers tend to be healthcare related (non-discretionary);
- routine checks mean visits are recurring;
- customers are typically loyal; and
- physical stores are unlikely to be replaced by e-commerce.
Evaluating the business opportunity for specialist markets is our bread and butter and we’ve helped investors answer important questions, for example:
Is the business operating in an attractive market?
Businesses we analyse typically sit in a small sub-segment of the wider market and the dynamics are often different for these players versus large-scale leaders. It is important to understand why customers value businesses in these niches and if demand will be resilient over time.
How realistic is it to scale the business?
These companies are very good at what they do, have a trusted brand and a loyal customer base. But their market is niche. There will be opportunities to expand into adjacent products and new markets. Investors need to understand those opportunities and get comfort that the business is ready for the changes needed to successfully scale.
Is M&A an attractive growth strategy?
These markets are often highly fragmented and scaling through buy-and-build can be lucrative. It is vital to fully understand the landscape and likely competition when it comes to an acquisitive strategy. This will ensure appropriate returns will be realised.
Where are vulnerabilities in the supply chain and how are they managed?
Transportation, import red tape, inflation and scarcity of raw materials have impacted UK and global supply chains. Uncertainty is the only certainty. It is key to understand how target companies have responded and what mitigations they have in place for future shocks.
Is there a proven commitment to R&D and the talent pipeline?
Many of these products depend on their innovation to stay cutting edge. There is less threat from low-cost manufacturing centres e.g. China, as quality is paramount and volume is not required. Competition remains from comparable providers both in the UK and in Europe/US/Japan. Investors will want to know the plans the business has to evolve its products and who will drive that innovation.
Speak to a member of the team about opportunities in the consumer sector.
Jack Hibbs
[email protected]
+44 7883 296 346