Cough, Cold and Allergy (Hay Fever) Remedies in Canada

PROSPECTS

Convenience factor favours combination products and nasal sprays

Combination products was the most dynamic category within cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in current value growth terms in 2019, and looks set to continue performing strongly over the forecast period. Consumer appreciation for the convenience and effectiveness of combination products will help to sustain demand, as will growing interest in recently launched products.

Climate change may extend the season for certain allergens in Canada

Approximately 25-30% of Canadians suffer from seasonal allergies. Allergy season starts in the spring, though there are some regional variations.

Early flu season and H1N1 strain boost demand for cough and cold remedies

In any given year, the level of demand for cough and cold remedies in Canada depends on the severity of the flu season, which is in turn influenced by the types of viruses in circulation, the efficacy of vaccines and regional factors. Flu season arrived early in 2018, with Alberta reporting cases in late October.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Multinational giants continue to lead cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies

McNeil Consumer Healthcare remained the overall leader in cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in value terms in 2019. GSK Consumer Healthcare, the recently formed joint venture between GlaxoSmithKline Plc and Pfizer, claimed the second leading position, while Bayer Inc placed third.

Distribution remains concentrated in store-based channels

While internet retailing was the most dynamic channel in current value growth terms, store-based retailers continued to dominate cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies distribution in 2019. This reflected the fact that like analgesics, these products are typically purchased for immediate relief, and therefore tend to be bought in brick-and-mortar outlets.

Online investment by leading chains should support gains for internet retailing

Leading grocery retailers in Canada are stepping up investment in their online sales portals, which should support further value share gains for the internet retailing channel within cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies over the forecast period. For example, Walmart, which has more than 400 stores across the country, recently expanded its grocery pickup service and launched a pilot grocery delivery service in selected areas.

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