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

PROSPECTS

Research suggests climate change is lengthening the allergy season

Antihistamines/allergy remedies (systemic) is projected to record low value growth at constant 2018 prices over the forecast period, despite a sizeable customer base and expected lengthening of the allergy season. Seasonal allergies affect 20-30% of Canadians and The Public Health Agency of Canada reports nearly 50% of children suffer from hay fever with over 20% are diagnosed with asthma.

Ongoing seasonal flu and colds continue to bolster category sales

Cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies is expected to record retail value sales increase marginally at constant 2018 prices over the forecast period. The cold/flu season remains the key driver of sales growth and 2018 delivered solid gains in cough remedies and combination products.

Combination products deliver strong growth in severe flu season

Combination products - cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies delivered strong value growth in 2018 driven by the severity of the flu season. Although the category provides strong gains during severe cold/flu seasons, it is predicted to remain flat through the forecast period.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Brand names continue to dominate retail value sales

McNeil Consumer Healthcare, Wyeth Consumer Healthcare and Bayer maintained their positions (with the latter two changing positions) as the leading three players in cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in 2018. McNeil Consumer Healthcare continued to be supported by its extensive brand portfolio, including Tylenol, Benylin, Reactine, Benadryl, Sudafed and Sinutab.

Drugstores/parapharmacies remains leading distribution channel

Drugstores/parapharmacies such as Shoppers Drug Mart has always been the preferred distribution channel for Canadian consumers when purchasing cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies. Many consumers also rely on recommendations from pharmacists to manage specific symptoms.

Substitutes challenge manufacturers

The increasing awareness and popularity of vitamins and dietary supplements, such as zinc and Echinacea, continues to challenge the sales growth of cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies. Canadian consumers are increasingly looking for healthier, more natural alternatives to treat symptoms of cough, cold and allergy symptoms.

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