Industry Analysis & Industry Trends
Medical and orthopaedic supplies retailers are under pressure on a number of fronts. They are facing a weak market, and intense competition within the industry and from retailers outside the industry (both from bricks-and-mortar and online retailers). They are thus relying on the quality and speed of provision of their products and services. Hospitals, pharmacies and supermarkets also sell some types of medical and orthopaedic goods (and the National Health Service provides free services and products).
Specialised medical and orthopaedic goods retailers are expected to generate revenue of £504.7 million in 2011-12, unchanged in real terms compared with industry revenue in 2010-11. The industry will encompass 1,156 firms, employing 7,041 people... purchase to read more
Industry Report - Starting a New Business Chapter
Barriers to entry are considered to be light. There are a large number of enterprises in the industry and revenue averages just £400,000 per enterprise, suggesting low entry barriers.
The main barrier is considered to be the ability to purchase high quality and reputed products at a competitive cost. Some incumbent retailers may have negotiated exclusive deals with suppliers. Some retailers are subsidiaries of vertically integrated groups that also manufacture reputed brands.
Large incumbent operators with a large number of outlets and a high sales base may be in a good position to negotiate good deals with suppliers. There are also large companies in other industries that also sell medical and orthopaedic goods (such as chemist and supermarket chains)... purchase to read more