Anaesthesia and Respiratory Equipment Makers Must Adapt to European Market

Originally Published MDDI November 2001

NEWS & ANALYSIS

Despite the relative stability of revenues in the anesthesia and respiratory equipment market over the last few years, a study by Frost & Sullivan (Foster City, CA) suggests that significant changes may lie ahead. The study values the European market—including anesthesia machines and workstations, multiparameter patient monitoring systems, and ventilators—at $295.8 million in 2000. The market is expected to reach $323.6 million by 2004 as prices stabilize and unit sales continue to increase.

Market maturity, however, could require manufacturers to explore new ways to increase sales. One major challenge, according to the study, will be to identify products or innovations that will spur replacement purchases. Computer-based features are expected to have a significant impact on market growth. According to the study, Europe is going through a period of increasing acceptance of computer technology. The challenge will be to understand the extent to which doctors and anaesthesiologists will use such features.

The study also found that the market is in a period of consolidation. Because even a small gain in market share can be vital in a mature market, consolidation represents a major challenge for all the market players, according to Frost & Sullivan.

Copyright ©2001 Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry