Research Overview
Market Experiences Product Shift
Due to decreasing budgets in the European healthcare industry, almost all
hospitals and medical organisations ? including state-run facilities - are
looking for ways to cut costs while attempting to retain quality standards.
These budgets cuts have affected many healthcare markets including the one for
surgical gloves, which is experiencing a drop in prices. At the same time,
growing allergy issues are causing a shift in the market from the dominant
natural latex powdered gloves to the more expensive natural latex powder-free
gloves and synthetic alternatives. The surgical gloves market is, therefore, in
a state of flux, with each of the new segments eating into anotherfs revenue.
This new research from Frost & Sullivan examines the current state of the
European surgical gloves market. It covers key market restraints, drivers,
challenges, market metrics and forecasts. It also offers strategies to overcome
the challenges and tracks major market and pricing trends.
Replacement Trend Likely to Drive Revenue
"The key driver of revenue in the European surgical gloves market is the
replacement of cheaper natural latex powdered gloves with higher-priced latex
powder-free gloves," notes the analyst of this research service. "The
conversion is not complete in Europe, and hence, it presents an area of
market/revenue growth."
Synthetic alternatives manufactured with materials such as Neoprene and
Polyisoprene have made an impact on the market and they hold the potential for
revenue growth since they are more expensive than latex gloves. Conversely, the
fact that they cost more may lead to more judicious usage.
Further Innovation Expected in the Market
Despite the strong price pressures and near-total market saturation, the
European surgical gloves market is expected to remain stable until at least
2010. Innovation and differentiation are anticipated to encourage product shift.
"Conversion due to innovation that, in turn, depends on allergy issues will
ensure that there is research and investment in this field," remarks the
analyst. "Ancillary expenditure on branding, market consciousness,
awareness and public relations is likely to increase as companies vie for
mind-space."
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