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

PROSPECTS

Changeable weather a reason for category growth

After a wet and mild start to the year with quite a strong flu epidemic in February and March 2019, April followed with milder temperatures and sudden early summer weather. This brought a huge growth spurt for flora and as a consequence a surge in cases of hay fever and allergies.

Climate change works in favour of antihistamines/allergy remedies

Germany’s weather developments in 2019 had a significant impact on the pharmaceuticals market including consumer health products, boosting the need for antihistamines/allergy remedies. During spring, demand doubled, making it the fastest-growing product within cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in 2019.

Flu patterns have the biggest impact

Although climate change is set to be a crucial factor behind the future performance of cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in Germany, flu incidence is and will continue to shape the performance of the overall category. In 2019, the flu season arrived late to Germany but it had an influence on cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies’ sales performance, recording a slightly better performance than in the previous year.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

High level of fragmentation and competitiveness

Local company MCM Klosterfrau Vertriebsgesellschaft reigns in a highly fragmented landscape with over 40 active companies, local and foreign players alike. In 2019, MCM Klosterfrau benefits from the strong positioning of Nasic brand (nasal sprays) as well as Neo-Angin for pharyngeal preparations.

Bionorica continues to benefit from trend towards natural products

Bionorica continued to gain share in cough, cold and allergy (hay fever) remedies in 2019. The company is one of the leading players specialising in herbal medicine and therefore has benefited in particular from the growing trend towards natural products.

Domestic producers focus on natural ingredients

Local companies have strong presence within cough, cold and allergy/hay fever) remedies in Germany, mainly overall pharmaceutical companies. Domestic manufacturers continue to focus on categories such as decongestants and combination products, and typically offer herbal/traditional products, while emphasising their German origins and roots in order to attract traditional consumers.

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