Galenica AG (GALE) Earnings Call Transcript & Summary
October 28, 2025
Earnings Call Speaker Segments
Iris Muller
executiveShaping transformation towards an integrated healthcare system for Switzerland. Dear investors, analysts, representatives of the media, dear guests here in the room but also digitally on the screens. A very warm welcome to the Galenica's Investor Day. I'm Iris Muller, the Head of Corporate Communication. And I have the honor of leading you through today's event here at Stapferhaus. Well, that's how the place right now is completely dedicated to health and health care project partners to today's exhibition. Maybe someone has already seen the exhibition? Just a few, well, you have the opportunity today. On the other hand, you didn't come here for a visit to the museum, did you? You want to hear about Galenica, and we've provided a multifaceted agenda for you, and we'll hear more about that from the host of today's Investor Day. Please welcome Galenica's CFO, Julian Fiessinger.
Julian Fiessinger
executiveThank you, Iris. And a very warm welcome to Galenica's Investor Day 2025 to all of you, very warm welcome here in the room and to the guests on the webcast. You said this is about health and the health system in Switzerland. And you'll have the opportunity to hear -- to see our health care systems from different angles as perspective. We're here at Stapferhaus, the Exhibition Health first will provide you surprising, tumorous and also contemplated view of our health care system. Here at Galenica's Investors Day, we look to a cost-effective scalable part of health care. Health care with them as an investment case, if your wish. We'll cast a glance at individual market trends, and you'll see how Galenica has developed against the backdrop of these trends, so that we remain the #1 health care service provider in Switzerland going forward. Our CEO, Marc Werner will start by giving you a strategy update, then we'll drill down to the essential business areas, pharmacies, products and brands, logistics and wholesale and diagnostics. You'll hear about the latest market trends. We will show you the strategic initiatives that we're following in the individual areas and what we intend to achieve buybacks. Then I'll give you a general market outlook, an overview of the regulatory initiatives and an update on our financials. And of course, feel free to ask questions after every presentation. After this event, you also have the opportunity of the tour at Stapferhaus together with us. So an intense varied agenda. So glad to see all of you looking forward to spending the day with you. Back to Iris, who will lead us through the day.
Iris Muller
executiveThank you, Julian. And we also have the market stalls. Just like 2 years ago, you have the opportunity to talk and to see the stalls. So we have our management and the Labor team. With us today -- so the representative might want to stand because not everybody would know you, I guess. So please take the opportunity to network over lunch or in the coffee break. We're in the [indiscernible] in Zurich. But you can have a BP check, a diabetes checkup, and we'll show you how to manage your medication, and we have a product type of our latest pharmacy concept here that we've already used ourselves. Then Labor team has brought a robot, the state of the art and it doesn't even have a name. I'm going to call a ginger for the day, and you'll see why later on. And [indiscernible] our partner is here for new insurance models to show you. Anything I forgot? No, we're ready to get going. All right. Let's get started with the first part. Let's start with a look to our strategy, and we'll talk to Galenica's CEO. Please, a very warm welcome give it for Marc Werner.
Iris Muller
executiveWell, Marc, transformation, that's the model of our Investor Day. You've been with us for 5 years as a CEO. How -- what does transformation means for you? And what you think about it?
Marc Werner
executiveWell, transformation primarily has to be fun in order to be integrated into the organization. For us, transformation, of course, is shaped by culture rather than technology. Technology basically follows cultural change. So it's not a project with a deadline or start date. It's an attitude. It's a constant change, constant asking question, constant development, and that's really a crucial point. And that means it's about people, our 9,000 staff. It's not about the managers or the Board. You have to build people and then they build a transformation for you. And of course, it's important that transformation is visible and tangible. That's a crucial element.
Iris Muller
executiveGood point. Do you have any examples that you could tell us how it creates energy? Well, you mentioned the pilot pharmacy, the Apple 360.
Marc Werner
executiveSo on Saturday, we opened doors with a new pharmacy where we want to rethink pharmacy and take it to a new level because pharmacies have been looking the same for hundreds of years, and we thought that's no longer on in today's world. So we changed the customer experience, the way we deal with customers, how we interact with them. We change the purchasing experience, self checkouts and so on and so forth, up to a hands-on health care consultation so that the neighbor doesn't know what is going on. So that's a massive change. And second, thing you can see here on the slide, that's our swing space. If you've been to our headquarters, you would have seen us that we live on the construction site and have done so for quite a while because we're revamping our headquarters. And that swing space shows transformation illustrates how we work. It's not the own office for the CEO or whatever. So we've created open spaces in a warehouse where we've integrated really the entire recycling where we reuse same for the new constructions. So it's got to do with cooperation at high level. I tend to work at the cafeteria so that everybody may approach me and they see me, they come to me, they talk to me. So I'm not in a silo office. And the most important thing about transformation is the following: it's never an end in itself. Transformation serves first and foremost, the consistent and efficient implementation of the strategy, creating value in the process. So it's not because we believe it's fun, it's all about the added value for all our stakeholders. And of course, there also that takes us back to our staff because we need motivated staff. It's the customers, of course, our patients. It's you, the shareholders that we want to create added value for and we're the #1 in health care in Switzerland and therefore, it's also about society. We want to break the ground for a better and more efficient digital health care system. So that really is -- contributes to the strategy.
Iris Muller
executiveYou could take us on a journey through the most important priorities of Galenica?
Marc Werner
executiveWell, the Galenica story really is all about innovation and trends and shaping the future. On the other hand, of course, we have a clear strategy of what we've added, and that's the entire strategy. There is no underlying value document or value proposition. This is what it's all about. This is how we try to lead the company. We do not mean to set boundaries by means of our network, but we try to unleash the energy of power, and power of transformation. But we have those 4 things here. We added value on the top left, the digital or physical challenges changes need to be developed. We want to have efficiency in the logistics network. And of course, the lab diagnostics business will be developed. And all these 4 fields, of course, come with their own KPIs, sustainability and success. It's about the efficiency of logistics. It's about the pharmacies and to make sure that we have a sustainable business model. That's a model for success. Then we have fit shaping in the future, where digital health care system has been brought to and where we intend to digitize, but we also intend to interact with our network internally and externally. I believe we've come up with a leadership role over the past few years. And we are now in a situation where the digitization of the health care system is being brought forward by us together with our partners. And last but not least pioneers in transformation. We want to be the best employer because we fundamentally believe that, that attracts the best people, and they will create the best added values. And transformation will be shaped actively and sustainably. That's our strategy. Now efficiency, that's one of the top priorities of the Galenica story. The biggest transformation project is logistics with the switch to a new ERP system. Now many companies are facing challenges when it comes to planning resources and facing a complex project management like this.
Iris Muller
executiveHow has the launch been going for Galenica?
Marc Werner
executiveWell, if I look around the room, we've all worked for a few years. And it's -- we all know it's not the switch overnight in an IT project like that. So we're taking a step-by-step approach and we've also seen it. And we have to improve things once we press the button and the important thing is to have your people on board, the personnel Board. There could be glitches and teething troubles and you have to smooth that without the customer really noticing that too much. Of course, there will be teething troubles. And I'm convinced that we've been doing well, that we are doing well. It's not just an IT project, you see, It's always an IT product plus a change projects. So I can see things are changing, and you have to get people on board. We have a logo where we switched to SAP last year, and we boosted efficiency. And the profitability, of course, that will have to come hand in hand with something like that is going to come by June next year in 2026. I'm convinced we're going to go for the switch in [indiscernible] and then we'll have a bubble of bubbly on that. So it's like all the big IT projects.
Iris Muller
executiveAll right. And the latest member in Galenica's network is the Labor team. So you acquired them this year. Why did you opt for the diagnostics business? That's a business where we didn't have so much dealings with?
Marc Werner
executiveWell, I'm proud of that and that was an exemplary process. Now we launched an internal strategy process. So how to develop our existing business better and how to tap into new business areas. And some, we identified some of these business areas. I'm not going to list them today. But one priority was the Diagnostics business. And it was quite clear that it would make sense to really boost that, and we came up with a great team that really analyze the market thoroughly. And of course, you always need to stroke a luck. You have to find the partners willing to sell and Labor team was ready to sell. We went to Goldach for first time, and we saw that it juggles. So everything really fit together. And we're so proud and we're so happy to have a Labor team on board. And there are others who could explain that much more easily for you.
Iris Muller
executiveNow digitization is a big topic, of course. So health is not the bunch that's less down for this kind of innovation. How can Galenica change this? And how can it make a difference?
Marc Werner
executiveWell, we do come -- I do come from the world of technology. And throughout the past 6 years, I was observing the development. And I have to say that I was not surprised and there's no point in avoiding the subject. I think that one thing that Galenica clearly has managed is the increase of efficiency and the added value like we were able to bring stakeholders together to create better end-to-end process, a better compendium with HCI solutions. It's about the patient information system or doctor information system, which we can integrate properly. And it goes from listing the symptoms up to an online appointment, advising the pharmacy, integration of telemedicine, e-prescription, e-medication plans a way in which we can manage these digitally. So it's an end-to-end process and this process clearly creates added value because it will only work if it adds something positive for every single stakeholder on the market, which is something that we have managed. And we now need to move ahead, digitalize more and be patient, which is not exactly my strong suit.
Iris Muller
executiveWell, Galenica is now active on a very large spectrum. And we mustn't lose a general overview on the market. So what's the next priorities on the list?
Marc Werner
executiveI think in recent years, we were able to significantly increase the value of our company. And at the same time, we were able to comprehensively renew our organization. So from my point of view, we have an excellent position to start off with. We have built a strong team. We have simplified structures and processes, and we're committed to a value and performance-oriented culture. We want to continue this development. We want to be focused on our clients. We want to continue this development, ensure organic growth and further efficiency gains and logistics, we want to establish the diagnosis business, expanding in the home care sector, particularly in that part, which right now offers us a perfect starting position. So we want to expand. We want to become stronger, bigger, faster. And obviously, we do want to develop our diagnostics activities with the colleagues who are here and represented here today. We don't want to be fourth, which we are right now. So our target is definitely moving ahead and become better. And I think we have a good position in terms of our organization. We are able to react. And we've created culture that is able to see change as a chance and there's an opportunity. There are some changes that we already know. Others are still unknown. But every time it's a question of seizing the opportunity and create what's best for us.
Iris Muller
executiveThank you so much, Marc, for this insight into the strategy. Now we're taking time for the first Q&A session. Julian, please come join us. We will start by taking the questions from the participants here. Please wait until somebody brings you a mic. Please state your name and where you're from, so that people participating in the webcast can hear you. And we will take your questions right afterwards. So let's start here. Let's take the first question.
Gian Werro
analystGian-Marco Werro, Zurcher Kantonalbank. I'm going to be the icebreaker as the first question. In case of the Labor team, which has been mentioned here, Marc, you said that our ambition lies not in the fact that we want to remain #4 in Switzerland, but there's other big players in Switzerland. For instance, Unilab Sonic, Veolia. What's your take on this? How are they going to react if and when Galenica tries to consolidate that part of the market? Don't you think that they are on a quest as well and that they're going to raise their targets and that might create a battle around all those small and private labs?
Marc Werner
executiveWell, it's in every trade, it's a bit of a battle. It is a fight. And yes, obviously, there's some bigger players on that market. And we have listed those. We see them. And I think that on a lot of levels, we do have a better starting position because we have a strong consolidation because of the status of Galenica in Switzerland, we are clearly well positioned on the side of the clients. And we mustn't forget that the main target group for such a group of client is with doctors, with carers. And I think we're well represented there with a part of -- a market share of over 30%. And I think that we are strong -- we have a strong position on the market. And hence, we can show and prove that we know how to do it. And generally speaking, I think we can add something in terms of a market consolidation. And as you say, small laboratories might not survive the changing market. And we're keeping our -- we'll definitely keep our eyes open and move ahead in this type of consolidation.
Iris Muller
executiveFirst question, there is another one.
Jan Koch
analystMy name is Jan Koch from Deutsche Bank. I guess that my questions are going to be answered later on, but I'm still going to try. When we, again, mentioned the Labor team, how much are you going to spend in terms of the consolidation in Switzerland? And are you excluding the fact that you might move into other European countries? That's my first question. And my second question concerns the pilots, I mean, the trial that were kicked off on Saturday. Do you know anything about the initial client feedback? Do you think that that's going to add to your share? And if yes, by how many points? And how about investments? Do you want to? Will you invest?
Marc Werner
executiveWell, Julian, I think we're going to take that question later on with our 3 colleagues are on stage. And when we talk about the ARPU side of it. But let's write down those questions because they are going to be answered. I think in terms of the Labor team consolidation, you might want to add something.
Julian Fiessinger
executiveYes, gladly do so. We have no clear ABGs, but the fact is we want to grow and we want to be attractive and profitable. In general, we have noted that this is a national activity, which is also due to the fact that right now, we do not have a disadvantage if we work with one of the biggest Swiss players. It's not going to disadvantage in the future if we move into an international field.
Iris Muller
executiveOkay. Any more questions here over there. Thank you.
Unknown Analyst
analystThe interpreter did not hear the name, but I have a question also about Labor team. we are talking about a 10% share of the market. Do you have any target objective in terms of capital markets. In terms of strategy, could you add anything in terms of the strategy and what it looks like in that field? Is the market actually growing on a structural level? And what do you have to imagine when I hear what I'm hearing now. Could you say anything about margins? Because when we talk about 8%, it's probably lower than if there is more. So we need a bit more flesh.
Marc Werner
executiveWell, you are anticipating a lot of things in terms of what we're going to present here. Labor team, again, very briefly, what we're aiming for, we want to be #1, maybe #2. And in the long run, we want to target on that level that we are in that position. We are quite -- we still have quite a lot to do before we get there. But I have to say that the other questions are very specific. Some of these points are going to be explained better in the presentation afterwards. So I think we're going to come back, if need afterwards.
Iris Muller
executiveOkay. After each presentation, there's a Q&A question. So I'd like to know if there's additional questions in the webcast. No, they're none in the chat. Okay. Then let's move on to the next part. Thank you so much, Marc, for the first input on strategy. So let us continue with our first topic that we're going to drill down into, that's transformation for pharmacies. So we have our trio in charge, Virginie, Stephan and Daniele, the common goal is to position the pharmacy at the -- as the [indiscernible] health care and they are going to explain that. And the next Q&A will be after the 3 presentations. We'll start out with Daniele Madonna, who's a pharmacist his self and he's in charge of the best possible of. Daniele, the floor is yours.
Daniele Madonna
executiveWell, there's almost no place in Switzerland where so many questions about health and health care are answered as in the pharmacy day after day. More than 300,000 patients go to a pharmacy every single day, about 1,830 pharmacies is what we have in Switzerland. They're there as a founding pillar of health care easy to access with a personal touch and high skills. We have 381 pharmaceutical experts, and we're the clear #1 in the market. This year, we're also celebrating the 20th anniversary of our Amavita pharmacies. And in March 2025, we opened doors to the 200th Amavita pharmacy in the Ticino, which is my home Canton. That development drives us to actively shape the future of the pharmacy landscape in Switzerland. The role of the pharmacy has undergone obvious change. Customer expectations arriving. The boundaries between in-person and online consultations have been blurred and there is an ever-increasing shortage of skilled labor. If you want to hold your own in that environment, you need to rethink your pharmacy as a modern integrated health partner and get away from just the dispenser of medicines. Now how do we tackle that transformation at Galenica? Our strategy has 3 core goals: First, positioning the pharmacy as the first protocol in health care with a focus on consultations and services; second, securing and developing the best staff; third, investment and consistent online channel strategy. When you start with the first item, the pharmacy is the first protocol in health care. And I'll hand over to Virginie and Stephan later on for the other 2 points. When talking about developing pharmacies further, many things start with their role within the health care system. In Switzerland, a pharmacy on average caters to 5,000 citizens. So for many people, it is the first and most frequent liaison when it comes to health care questions. That proximity to the population is an enormous strength, which is decisive for us. The more we can clarify questions at the pharmacy, the less burden there is on the entire system from GP practices to emergency departments. And with the second cost containment package, the central government have strengthened the competencies of pharmacies even further. Allow me to single out 2 topics out of that cost containment package that are important for pharmacies, namely vaccinations and into professional health care service. Allow me to start with vaccinations. Now in the future, starting in 2027, the vaccines and the vaccinations that are carried out in pharmacies will be taken over by the basic health insurance. If these are vaccinations that are in accordance with the Swiss vaccination plan. And the second topic that is highly relevant for us in pharmacy is into professional services. So that is all about the therapy adherence and therapy optimization. So this takes us to chronic patients, hypotonic patients and what have you. So in the future, you can not only supposed to carry out hypotonic screenings in the pharmacy but also adapt therapies so that the pharmacy may adapt therapies in close cooperation with GPs and also work stay closely to the side of the patient. So that comprises medication analysis, again, in close cooperation with the GP. These new services will have to be developed in the coming years, we'll have to carry out studies to check for efficiency and purpose and cost effectiveness. And then the Ministry of Health will check that and then it will be included in the catalog services. We're working quite closely with Pharma Swiss to come up with these services. And at Galenica, we are ready for that change, because we invested early on in the transformation from new product selling and dispensing medicines towards consultation and healthcare services. Our holistic concept is consultation plus. That's one of the keys to enthuse our customers and to add value, it's holistic communication positioning concept. We have several components, marketing communication, the online journey and training the pharmacy teams and shop fitting even. And by the end of 2026, consultation plus is slated to be the standard or the norm rather in all our pharmacies and we're ready for the vaccinations. Today, more than 800 of our pharmacists have the technical certificate to administer vaccinations that means that we can vaccinate basically all of our network pharmacies. And the figures show you that the demand for consultation is increasing massively, fee-based consultations, more than 150,000 and that's the number of fee-based consultation in health care services in the first half of the year. So consultation plus has enabled us over the past few years to convince the health insurance companies to include pharmacies as a port of call in alternative insurance models, comparable to the role of tele health for GPs. And several of the top names in insurance are already cooperation partners of ours. And let me underline KPT in our corporation starting on January 1, 2026, about 170,000 people insured with KPT may use the consultation offers in our pharmacies without franchise, no deductible. So KPT is also represented here today, we have the opportunity to hear more about that model of the break or on their store at the first floor. And that will continue to boost store consultation. First our goal is to double the number of health care services in the coming 3 years. These consultations frequently also lead to cross-selling amongst other things because customers can also get drugs, can buy drugs, if needed. We have seen that the average goods basket of the consultation plus services is at about CHF 80; 1/3 consultation and 2/3 going to products. And that's also an important element of long-term customer binding, because of course, we answer their questions. We provide solutions and then customers will come back. Well, again, you have the time to use consultation plus services today during the break, you can have your BP checked, your ears checked with an otoscopy or undergo a diabetes check. And we have 2 colleagues here [ Henry Schalla ] from the Amavita Pharmacy in Bergen. Natalie Bernard or the CoVitality Pharmacy and [indiscernible] Centre. And that takes me to my most important point, the top customer binding, that requires top personnel. How to secure that, that will be explained by Virginie.
Virginie Jeschka
executive[indiscernible] now can he even do that, that's the question you're asking yourselves. It's such an important role that we have to tell you. We have the people to reach our goals. Now I'll give you the update on that. What is it that we're talking about. We're talking about 6,000 staff in the pharmacies. So 2 main roles, pharmacists and assistants. And that's where we entered our transformation journey with them. We're going to take them on board, we are developing opportunities for them. So how do we do that? So for the assistance we have developed what we call roles so they can take on more responsibilities. So they could have under than the personnel planning, that's quite interesting, also monetarily. And so that's no longer the classical of hierarchies that you are familiar with. So the roles that we've molded, they are in line with our strategy, our ways. And it's on one form of pharmacy could explain that better. So well, here from someone from the West of Switzerland and he is going... [Presentation]
Virginie Jeschka
executiveI'm especially proud that each and every one of them really has passed on at least one role in the pharmacy. So as I said, young talents, training people, that's not enough. We really have to reward them if they show over average commitment and one of the projects close to my heart was that to make sure that assistants can even become co-managers in a pharmacy and more than 30 of our pharmacies are doing that. So they have an assistant as a co-manager and one of them with us that's [indiscernible] who is upstairs at the store and working to provide the checks for you. It's not only about pharmaceutical assistant, but also about the pharmacists that we have. And we're talking about people who studied at a university to have a degree and we have to be there real early to offer them prospects. That's why we're offering what we call an assisted year. That's the practical year that they need to undergo. We can say about 1/4 of the students of pharmacy in Switzerland takes that year with us. And of course, means once they graduated from the university, we can bind them to us and we can flank out their career path because it's not enough to graduate. If they take -- if we want to lead pharmacy, they have to become FPHS. So that's a technical certificate. So that's 2 additional years on the job. And year after year, many of our well-trained pharmacists become committed there because 2/3 of our pharmacists have somebody who is in training. So in April last year until last exam, alone, we had 60 young talents that we've sent to that exam. So we've bound them to us. All right. That's the beautiful site where we are really committing ourselves to young talent. You might want to ask what is the efficiency and all that, a bit of an input on that. On the one hand, we have an internal standing pool. So we have 277 in staff that were in flexible modules. So they're always on call, they're flexible when it comes to site and they go wherever they needed. So that fantastic because that means we don't have to have external stand in. So that's a contribution to cost management. And another point to boost efficiency is that we work AI supported. So in the goods management, first and foremost and in the future in personnel management too. That's done throughout Switzerland, but also in the omnichannel, and that's where Stephan comes in.
Stephan Mignot
executiveWe're transforming that into a first port of call, as you've heard. It's also the first place for our customers. We have heard it from Daniele that in view of the demographic changes and lack in terms of medical care personnel, it is very important to be able to provide this type of service. At the same time, we see that our customers are increasingly turning to digital channels. Around 80% of them go online before they turn to visit physical point step of sale. We know a similar situation from a lot of other trades and industries. So a lot of clients expect a seamless experience between the online and off-line world, which obviously heightens the expectations in terms of the health market. As we have heard it today, everything that's going on, such as OTC liberalization will accelerate this trend. From today's perspective, a liberalization in terms of a certain number of OTC medication that were available in pharmacies solely can now be sold through other sales channels or alternative channels in the future. Specifically, and according to current political discussions, this will affect those OTC medication that's not on the federal government's list of specialties, the SL list. This corresponds to a market volume of around CHF 900 million with a stable to slightly declining growth, practically speaking, 15% of Galenica Pharmacy sales. Galenica sees the OTC liberalization primarily as an opportunity because we have been investing for several years already into a consequent omnichannel strategy. We are focusing on 3 core elements. First of all, the joint venture with Redcare as a pure online player. Secondly, the development of our online shops and digital customer journeys. And thirdly, the investments into pharmacies as the place of the future. And I would like to go into more detail on the last 2 points. We have already talked about the importance of advisory services, and Daniele talked about it. But it's very important that on the same -- in the same sense, we have a positive customer experience on site. We have already mentioned the new concept, that's an internal, by the way, name, ARPU 360 future pharmacy experience. This is how we want to redesign the pharmacy experience at Amavita and Sun Store, and we want to become future-proof. In that sense, we are focusing on the customer experience in the pharmacy and more strongly on the different customer needs and the designing of the pharmacy. We are creating a triage system based on the individual needs, and we are introducing a new semi-private consultation area, thereby eliminating the current frontal customer interaction separated by the counter. We are integrating additional digital tools into the interaction between customers and pharmacy staff. In order to support this change in customer interaction, we are investing in our employees through targeted training. Last Saturday, and we've already talked about that, we have opened a new concept in the Glattzentrum in Zurich. And with this first pilot site, we'd like to gain a lot of insights into the customer behavior and their experience on spots. And we want to incorporate these into the further development, while improving what needs to be improved. We are planning around 5 more pilot pharmacies by 2026 as the next steps, be it renovation or new pharmacies, and we want to implement these into the new concept at Amavita and also Sun Store. In order to give you a better idea of what the new pharmacy will look like, we have brought a mockup, a prototype with us today. So it's made of wood. It's not very 3-dimensional, but it will give you an impression and a sense of touch and feel. And otherwise, I'm happily inviting you to come see us when you're near the Glattzentrum. This new pharmacy experience is embedded into a strong digital customer journey. A good example and an important milestone for linking digital and brick-and-mortar channels in the Galenica network is the prescription manager. This is a practical digital aid for people with repeat prescription, chronic illnesses or limited mobility. I'll receive information, I receive -- I'm guided, and I receive help when needed. And at the same time, it's making the repeat prescription easier. It can happen through click and collect on site or it can be delivered to your home. This type of service was launched at the beginning of 2025 and is now used by over 30,000 customers. This service can also be tested in our pharmacy on the first floor. You can buy one of your products or prescriptions. Obviously, it's going to be a simulation, but that's how you can test the service and get ready for the future. In case you already have a repeat prescription, this is your chance. In other areas, too, we see a strong adoption of the digital omnichannel offers that we are creating. We are seeing a strong growth in terms of the click and collect orders by over 50% this year. And over 1/3 of all consultation plus and vaccination appointments are now made online. We are hence confident that with the development of the new physical pharmacy experience and the digital offers, we are well positioned for future challenges and customer needs. As you can tell, thanks to this presentation, we are in the midst of transforming pharmacies. And it is together that we are continuing to develop our success and the pharmacy of the future. We are focusing on 3 key areas: first, more competence for pharmacies, and we're ready. Secondly, investing into employees. We create and promote and retain skilled workers. Thirdly, omnichannel for an optimal customer journey. We are where our clients expect us to be. And all of this pays off in terms of customer satisfaction and their loyalty. It ensures the relevance of pharmacies within the health care system, and it secures a skilled specialists and workers as well as ensures that we can manage personnel cost development. We are hence increasing customer satisfaction and gain market share.
Unknown Executive
executiveThank you so much for this trio. And we are taking your question now. Stephan, there's a question that was asked because you were deployed last weekend. What's your experience?
Stephan Mignot
executiveWell, my first experience was the fact that we were quite overwhelmed by the general interest we were witnessing there. So it was certainly a success in terms of the customer attendance in [indiscernible] in the Glattzentrum. And this new area of semi-private consultation has definitely created a lot of interest, and a lot of customers said that it was indeed very comfortable to not have anyone next to them or behind them. And our colleagues on site confirm that same experience because it honors their experience and competence within that frame and framework. And it's nice to see what happens in terms of this transformation. When we have a self-checkout, it actually works because we know through other sales side that in the end, 10% of the client experience is affected by this. So anyway, after the very first day, I can say very good experience.
Unknown Executive
executiveThank you so much. We'll do it like we did last time. We take your questions on site and then take the questions on the website.
Unknown Attendee
attendeeYes. You mentioned the liberalization of OTC medication, and I'd be very glad if you could give us an update in terms of the timing. In the past, it was delayed time and again. And in terms of the regulations, I guess it wasn't easy. So where are we at?
Unknown Executive
executiveThank you for this question. Indeed, it's a bit difficult to have a clear time line. As of today, we think that as a next step, we will enter a consultation phase of the law therapeutic products in Switzerland and in terms of OTC medication. So that should happen by next year. And if that's the case, we think from experience that we'll end up somewhere around 2030 with the liberalization of the type of medication.
Unknown Executive
executiveOkay. Two more questions. On the right side here.
Unknown Attendee
attendeeThe promotion of services within pharmacies, what are the difficulties in terms of the legal framework? What are the obstacles? And what can we do to counter these? And secondly, the new concept. I'm not exactly clear -- I don't understand exactly what the target is. Does the goal consist in reducing personnel on site of a pharmacy? Or is that personnel going to be used differently?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, I'm taking the first question. In 2017 and '18, there was a first revision on therapeutic products, and that has added to our competence such as vaccination or the prescription medication that we can hand over. So when those competencies are insured, we have to act. And that's how we develop consultation plus and how we have equipped and added to the competence of our personnel and our stuff. Fact, nevertheless, is that this subject has not been picked up by the insurances because in the beginning, we have to fulfill every regulation before that can be added to such a system. And one of the possibilities consists in adding these to an alternative insurance system, and that's where we want to start. In terms of the target of this new concept, I say that, as usual, we have several goals, several targets. On the one hand, differentiation. We obviously want to position our pharmacy as a differentiating factor in terms of other pharmacies, but in terms of what we offer, how we offer it. But we also want to raise the efficiencies and the way in which we treat our clients in a very differentiated manner. And obviously, we want through all of this, gain market shares.
Unknown Executive
executiveThere's a question in the center.
Unknown Attendee
attendeeMy first question is about vaccinations. You said that almost all Galenica pharmacies should be competent and give vaccinations. Do you have any idea or indication if other pharmacies have that same possibility? And can you explain to us what it means in terms of financial impact?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, with the revision of the law, the pharmacies have been unable to vaccinate. But in order to do so, the pharmacists or the ones that had finished before 2020, they have to do an additional training. Everyone can do that. And the new pharmacists who are studying now have almost finished, they have that included in the base costs. So in theory, all pharmacists can vaccinate if they are habilitated to do so. You do need a cantonal authorization, but you -- if you request it, you receive it. The one big difference is about mostly the type of vaccination that can be used. And there's differences between the cantons, meaning that it's the medical service of each canton that authorizes the type of vaccinations that can be done. And we see that as we move on into bigger liberalization, cantons allow more and more of these vaccinations. And with the second package of cost reduction, we see that all of the current vaccinations are going to be recognized and added to the list, which adds to the pressure on the cantons. And obviously, you need to have the right space, you need to invest. And I think it's difficult among the 1,800 pharmacies to state clearly how many actually vaccinate. But I'd say about 2/3 of them are allowed to. In terms of the cost, the service as such has a value of CHF 20, CHF 30 per pharmacy plus the actual vaccine. And the vaccine goes anywhere up from CHF 15 to CHF 25, I think in the case of Tetanus, and can reach some CHF 100 when we talk about combined vaccines.
Unknown Executive
executiveAnd just to follow-up on that. Of course, the vaccinations, that's also true for other services. We're not adding personnel to do that, so that's quite an attractive margin. And on top of that, we're boosting loyalty, and you can sell other products. So in itself, it's not an essential revenue stream, but will strengthen our overall business and boost our margin.
Unknown Attendee
attendeeNow on consultation plus, you mentioned about CHF 80 on average per customer. How much is incremental, truly, because the patient will have been your customer before. So do you have any figures that could really underpin that in terms of the incremental increase?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, that's quite difficult, but you have to see that people would have turned to general practitioner, but they turn to the pharmacy and are being catered to. So if there is incremental sales, yes, there is, but we haven't measured it.
Unknown Executive
executiveSo there was a question in the front in the first row.
Unknown Attendee
attendeeNow could we get back to that modern pharmacy and the options you have there in -- physically in terms of how you set that up? How would that be possible at all to build something like that. And e-prescriptions and repeat prescriptions, now you mentioned Amavita, but how would you differentiate yourself from MediService? Because after all, that does exist too.
Unknown Executive
executiveNow of course, what we're trying to do is about a concept like that, it's supposed to work in different pharmacies. And that's what we're trying to achieve next year. Glattzentrum, of course, is a bigger format, a bigger pharmacy. And we believe that the basic underlying sort of a pharmacy like that can also be realized in the smaller pharmacy. So we're quite convinced of that. And on repeat prescriptions, given -- we can take a look at the -- in Prescription Manager. Now basically, what we're trying to do, Amavita, Sun Store and Coop Vitality. What we are trying to achieve is that everyone, through how to repeat prescription, use that and as a differentiation from MediService. The more specific demands are being that you won't find everywhere these days, no. The Prescription Manager, that was for everyone.
Unknown Executive
executiveNow let's see whether we have questions online. So we're opening up the opportunity for you to ask your questions or to enter them. Now right now, there are no questions. Well -- we -- that's the last question before we continue.
Unknown Attendee
attendeeLet me get back to the protocol, pharmacy. Now for health insurances, we can see that they're trying to achieve that with telehealth to drive down costs. Now my question is, does that work? Are there any glitches? Because the health care insurance could really boost that and say trying to the pharmacy, don't go to the doctor or to the hospital.
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, that's true, and that's going to come our way. So we could see in the individual models that we have, and you see more of that later on. So we have a more bigger collectives, as I said before, it's 117,000 people that we can address. And then for KPT alone and then other insurance company will have to do something. Now the pharmacies, in the past, were not part of that system. But now we're on a par with GPs and telehealth. So we thought for an equal say for pharmacies. So bigger cooperation so we can achieve more, and the health insurers will advertise that more in the future and that will come our way in the coming months.
Unknown Executive
executiveWonderful. Thank you so much Virginie, Stephan and Daniele, for your contributions. All right. We'll take a coffee break now. So please use it to get your system going because if you get up the stairs, you'll find the market stalls, coffee and few energy boosters. Have a look at Ginger the robots, have a look at [indiscernible]. Downstairs, you'll find the restrooms, and we'll continue at 11:30 here and online. See you then. [Break]
Unknown Executive
executiveAnd that's a good sign and I hope you all back also online. I told you 11:30, but it's really 11:15. So let's get started, let's say, and have a look at the health care market, which is characterized strongly by societal development, Tom Szuran. He's going to show why self-optimization prevention are not just fads, but real opportunities also for Galenica. Thomas, over to you.
Thomas Szuran
executiveAll right. Let's have a look at the consumer health care market. 46% of the Swiss population want to do more for their own health care. 75% believe their health competence is high, are very high, but just 11% feel really healthy. That's a consumer portal, GFS has [indiscernible]. That's a wonderful entry into the world of the consumer health care market. People want to take care of their own health. They want to do something for it. That means our market is growing. And I've been in health care for about 30 years. And I feel that -- so has never been as exciting as today. The market is changing, needs are changing. Demand rises in new channels and category, and that's the environment that our subsidiary, Verfora and its subsidiaries, some have been added is moving. And let me give you an insight into the developments we're seeing at Verfora how -- into the market and how Verfora is moving in this environment. Let's have a look at the development in the market there. First, what are we seeing? As I said, prevention is becoming ever more important. People want to take care of their own health these days earlier and they do prevention. Then self-optimization and longevity are strong drivers in that market. We want to remain fit in our old age. We want to be high performers, and we want to look good. And that means that the market has an answer before that customers are ever better informed. After Dr. Google, we're now increasingly seeing Dr.AI. But the market also is becoming volatile and loyalties waver. Now demographics will for us not talk of our aging society, but of our young people have completely new demands, and they move totally different in the entire digital world and omnichannel strategies. We heard about that. From pharmacies, consumers are showing cross-channel movement. So we have to live up to that. Of course, there are challenges. Margin pressure brings to mind, the price sensitivity of customers has increased. They're looking for the cheapest possible channel. Purchasing is becoming more expensive. So there are regulatory changes, there are changes in the needs and demands of our customers. Quite obviously, if you see these trends, identify them and consistently adapt to them, you'll win. And of course, Verfora is going to do that. Let me turn to Verfora now. In brick-and-mortar professional shape, Verfora is the clear #1. We're about twice as big as #2 and 3 Bayer or Hela. We founded in 2017 and in 2018, '19, we developed a clear-cut strategy and have been consistent in implementing it, as Mike said, we had a strategy. We found a target and we're implementing it. And one of our goals at Verfora was to grow organically with our core markets and [indiscernible], Triofan and [indiscernible] have provided for that. You'll be familiar with this plan. They come up with a 50% plus in sales on 2018. Second, growth and organic growth. So we intended to acquire or license interesting brands or companies in that sector, too. You can see that here, all these brands have been added. It's about 20. So about 20 extra brands that we added complementary medicine, for instance, that has been outperforming the market. We took over Spagyros in 2022 and Padma and received an exclusive license for the brand Omni-Biotic, the fastest-growing market thing in the market. And we have them on board. The latest example that you can see on the right-hand side is the distribution partnership with Cooper Consumer Health that was launched at the beginning of 2025. So if you have a look at the strategy in 2019, Verfora has managed to more than double our sales. Now sales development in products and brands is a bit hard to follow, however, I must admit that since 2024, if you compare it to the figures as published by IQVIA how it come has to do with the fact that IQVIA does not show the export business, about 25% of sales, and that's got a different development from the business in Switzerland. And the main reason, however, has to do with the adaptation of the EU directive for medical products in May 2024. That means that products like Perskindol and Triomer will have to be adapted in their composition. It's different for us than for food. For us, it takes 2 to 3 years because you cannot simply switch or change the product of the end, and that's why we supplied the markets with bridging stocks in Switzerland and in Europe in 2024, which created several million additional sales for products and brands. And that's not going to be in the books for '25 and '26. And if you have a look at the results for the group products and brands has done a bit -- has shown slower growth than in 2024. And on top of that, of course, seasonal volatility, the flu, hay fever, the number of sunny hours, mosquitoes. This year, for example, there was almost no summer flu. There was too much rain, not enough sunny hours and the mosquitoes were not there both in Switzerland and with our neighboring states, a minus 50% simply because there were no mosquitoes. Now next year, the mosquitoes will be back, and we'll be happy again. But let's look into the future of Verfora over the past few years historically, Verfora is almost exclusively focused on brick-and-mortar sales. That was where business was and was correct. It was the right thing to do. More than 300,000 customers go to the pharmacy every day after all. So that is essential sales channels also for the years to come. And we have a vertical cooperation between Verfora and Amavita and Sun Store [indiscernible] and Wind concept. That strengthens our entire group. But other channels are becoming ever more important. So all products except for the medicine of [indiscernible] can, may and will be offered more strongly also via other channels. That's not a new phenomenon, but it's more of a dynamic development as opposed to the past. So Germany, France, Austria, they are more active in our markets, and that has an influence on the flow of goods and our price structures. If you combine that with the changing customer desires, of course, we have new product walls. That leads us to an adjustment a bit of an adjustment of Verfora strategy for the coming years. We are going to develop products according to the wishes of the customers for Algifor, we've come up with liquid sticks. That's liquid Algifor. The customers wanted that because they do not want to swallow pills. They don't want dissolve some powder, but they want to use the product on the go [indiscernible] pharm. That's classic cold medication, but it's also there for hay fever and for cough today. So we're developing our brands into the depth and in breadth. Omnichannel, that's a new topic. As I said before, the customers went to the pharmacy. They had a problem, a headache, and they looked at the shelves and bought that product. Today, quite often, they take their decisions earlier, social media, online, friends, what do I do if I have a headache. So they get the medication online or they already have an idea when they come to the pharmacy. So of course, we'll have to really cater to that development and with Omni-Biotic and Veractiv we gather experience, and we build on that. It's working well. And that should work out fine. What is becoming ever more important is the awareness of the brand, the recognition of the brand. Usually, you look at a product in the shelf. But we have to make sure these days that the promise of the headache will go away is already in the minds of the customers as soon as they try to get information on social media wherever. So how would I have to make the brand known. That is something that we are going to focus on in the future. Now you're all familiar here with the perks. So a bit of a nice mascots to remind the customers of what this is all about. That's part of the game. Now allow me to close with a remark from the beginning of my presentation. It's a truly exciting time for the consumer health care market and Swiss market leader, Verfora canton will shape the future market development. So I can't wait. Thank you.
Unknown Executive
executiveThank you so much, Thomas. We are moving into the next Q&A. And now I'm going to specifically address the webcast because no questions were published so far. [Operator Instructions] Let's kick off with the questions on site. And we hope that there's more question on the webcast now.
Unknown Analyst
analyst[indiscernible] Capital. We are at roughly 10% market share. Would it be possible to say something about the limits of the market? Where is the limit?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, the limit is 100%. We can't go beyond that. It's a very heterogenous market. And we are twice as big as #2 and represent 10%, which shows how fragmented the market is. And obviously, we try to extend. And this is a challenge, a challenge that we need to deal with. It's not easy because #3 and 4 are international companies that cannot be sold simply. So we need to find out which are the adequate alternatives. But we'll take the opportunities as they arise.
Unknown Analyst
analystSo what does it mean if #1, 2, 3 together represent over 50% of market share? So the other ones have basically like 1%, 2%?
Unknown Executive
executiveYes, indeed, there's like 250 to 300 small companies that have a very small percentage. And from that point of view, we have to ask if that makes any sense even, because if I have to integrate into a full company with 3 million of turnover, it's something that's worth asking. So what does make sense? I think that's difficult to say. If it works within the portfolio, the answer is yes. And otherwise, it's no. But we have a very large spectrum already and then we need to see what kind of indication can work with what we already have. And in the end, it's not important if it's an integration or an acquisition, but we've seen that there's a huge growth. But at the same time, we don't have -- in terms of Omni-Biotic's, any possibility of purchasing the company. Nevertheless, we were able to get the license for ourselves. We don't need to acquire everything. We can do it ourselves.
Unknown Executive
executiveOkay. Excellent. Any other questions? Yes, please.
Unknown Analyst
analyst[ Patrick ] [indiscernible] from Zurich Kantonalbank. The link between the introduction of this presentation and what we said afterwards isn't entirely obvious to me. You said there was a growing awareness in terms of health within the population. Where do you see the potential? Where do you see that there's going to be a higher turnover. Because maybe if people focus on their health, they will need less medication.
Unknown Executive
executiveThe question, I think, deals with the question of preventing illness. Because people don't want to become ill, don't want to fall ill. So if everybody takes care of that, they invest -- in terms of supplements, for instance, a lot of people take these in addition to their usual food. And in that sense, there's a possibility to extend in terms of general commerce, not just in pharmacy, but in general, because clients find information online, they purchase online or offline, and that's the field where we see the most potential in terms of growth.
Unknown Executive
executiveJulian, would you like to add anything? Okay, then let's take the next question.
Carla Bänziger
analystCarla Banziger from Vontobel. You said that the channels are going to be extended and the longer the more international competitors are going to enter this market. So how many offers are available on our actual market? And to what extent do you see that this is a risk for us? If I think of Redcare, there's always the own brands that are sold. How do you see this in terms of brand?
Unknown Executive
executiveYes. Obviously, that's one part that we're taking into account when it comes to the strategy. And the question of how we use other channels because we have our own segment, with our own brands, and there's obviously the question of where do these come from? What role can they play or should play? And on the other hand, thanks to Redcare, we became aware of brands or products that were not on our radar. So yes, on the one hand, it's a challenge, but on the other hand, it's a huge opportunity.
Unknown Executive
executiveAny other question? Not right now. So let's check. Is there anyone on the webcast who would like to ask a question? No questions asked on the web chat. Well, I hope everybody is still here and did not fall asleep. So let's close this part of the Q&A. Thank you so much, Thomas.
Unknown Executive
executiveAnd then let's continue with our next subject -- subject wholesale and logistics, which is our platform within the Swiss health care system. And Andreas Koch is going to show us how Galenica, with its company, Alloga, Galexis and Unione will not only ensure a secure and efficient supply of medicines to Switzerland, but also drive Galenica's growth in a targeted manner.
Andreas Koch
executiveThank you. Let's focus together on logistics. I came with a big number, 100 million of packages of pharmaceutical products pass through our logistics facilities each year. What do we have to imagine when we look at this? We could divide this number through 365 and try to understand what it means in terms of daily business. But the seasonalities, for instance, yesterday, almost 500,000 packages were commissioned yesterday through our logistics system. That's a big number and that's our daily bread in terms of our business. On the other hand, with our site in Burgdorf with Alloga, we have some sort of [ foot knocks ] in Switzerland in terms of stocks, where we have roughly CHF 1.5 billion of worth in medication, and I'm using the word of administration here because we don't want -- which is not the right word because we don't want to be administrator, but we want to see as a motor. We want to see as a pillar in terms of the health care system for the Swiss people. Through the last years, there was a certain dynamics, and the market and its structures have changed. And I'm going to talk about this in further detail and look into what has changed and where. But basically, the market is growing, which, as such, is positive. When we look at the turnover in our sales numbers, we see that in terms of turnover, there's been a huge development throughout the last 5 years. But in terms of sales, it was not that high, which shows us that structurally speaking, in this portfolio, a lot of changes happened, and I'm going to talk about this. Throughout the last 5 years, the volume has risen by 7%, roughly, which holds its own challenge in terms of logistics. And on the other hand, we were able to develop our market share, which is something that makes me personally very proud because besides the acquisitions that we have completed within Galenica and which has an impact in terms of wholesale logistics, we really manage well in terms of acquisitions of third markets. And third markets is not meant in a demeaning way. It's a specific challenge, which allows us to improve our performance on the existing markets. Beyond that period, we need to look into degree of availability and our deliveries, meaning the available number and units of medication that we can ensure delivery for. And besides all of those projects, which I'm going to present to you, we have had a permanent and constant performance, which makes me, again, very proud. Let's look into one area of strong structural change, which has an impact on logistics. We are going to talk about generic medication and its authorizations on the market. Why does it have such a strong impact? Imagine the following: a very good blockbuster loses its patent, and that's a nightmare of every pharmaceutical company. We've heard it before in the media and when they say that the next product is produced without patent, what does it mean? In terms of our logistics, it means that a product which brings very good results is going to be replaced, not through by a different product, but by 4, 5, maybe 10 different products. At the same time, the price is going to be lowered, meaning that our turnover is under pressure and the logistic complexity is extended. And that's the case of generic medication. And the same thing for biosimilar medication, which is even -- where this is even stronger. So sometimes it's products that need a specific logistic chain of delivery, products that need to be refrigerated or any of that sort. And here another example throughout the last 5 years, and I've mentioned this before, we've had a market growth by 7%, whereas the refrigerated products have risen by 35%, and that's a high complexity in terms of logistics. Another point is the security of supply in Switzerland. Of course, you can read about that. You've read the [indiscernible] and we've heard about that in the press -- hundreds of products are not available. So that's, of course, a challenge in logistics for us because the demand is there and the customers ask us, can you get that for me? Are there any alternatives? And as soon as the product is available, there's a huge rush in logistics because everything has to be done at the same time. So we're suffering from that nonavailability, but we're not suffering in darkness. We're doing something about it. And over the past few years, we've teamed up with -- to found the safety stock initiative. The goal is there are 350 key generic drugs, and we're building additional safety stock for them so that we can do something for the sake of the security of supply. It's not the be all and end all, but that creates quiet in the system. And of course, that's a great opportunity to offer services. Of course, it's not easy. So as early as years ago, we started to invest because we're strong in distribution, but not in warehouse stock. So if we build warehouse capacities up, then, of course, that entails investment. Now investment. We've invested quite a lot over the past few years. Of course, we have to really have the capacity and the answer is technology and to manage all that. So we've invested into that to have better throughput times that we're delivering twice a day. We're driving down the sources of error and boosting productivity in the process. So how do we do that? Let me give you an example. Marc has already mentioned it. We're in the midst of launching SAP. And if we look back to Alloga, that's where we managed to switch our ERP system to SAP and launch EWM to boost productivity by 20% in operations. So that's -- of course, that's a classic boost to productivity, but it also reduces complexity. So that is what we are trying to do also going forward. Now the next phase of digital transformation, that was Galexis. I told you last year that we're planning to go live with Ecublens and the warehouse there. And that's an ERP that affects all of Galexis with billing of customers and suppliers and that's also true for Ecublens. And in Ecublens we commissioned new ERP system, the EWM so that allowed us to go live with that but I'm not... [Presentation]
Unknown Executive
executiveOf course, that was open heart surgery, what we did there. You saw the figures. So we didn't stop to supply people with 50,000 items a day. So we did that while operations were ongoing and people who work there were not used to use a computer in their work. So there was a personnel who had been with the company for 35 or 40 years, and it was a major step for them, a difficult step for them. And you can imagine that customers and employees really cursed us as to how you could do such thing. But still, it's gone well. Let's have a look at Niederbipp -- shall we, that's where we're also going to switch on over to SAP, the master data have already been completed, then the customers and suppliers also have also switched to SAP. And of course, we're going to follow suit with logistics. We have a large-scale transaction volume, which is a challenge because we're switching the system. On the other hand, it's an opportunity because, of course, we want to even boost our transaction volume going forward. And the existing system couldn't do that. So once that is completed, let's look to the future. We will have an excellent foundation to continue to develop further technologically. And of course, there is AI that can support us and will support us in many places. These are 4 topics that I brought, but there are others that we are envisaging right now. Now the article -- the item allocation that we will have to determine quicker to see where the items will have to go at which height in the warehouse, for instance. So we are going to do that. We're also planning for the future. So there is excellent potential harbored there that we get more efficient in catering to our customers to really give better answers to their needs and really focus on what is close to customers' hearts. And last but not least, that the capacity planning. And so using the people where they are needed day after day. So making our logistics stronger, smarter and being closer to the customer. All of that should be an excellent starting point for the future for us so that we may be future-oriented and efficient in our service provision for the customers.
Iris Muller
executiveThank you so much, Andy, for this insight into logistics, how positive are you in terms of the conversion [indiscernible] by 2026?
Unknown Executive
executiveYes. Well, if I said that everything is going for the best, I'd be extremely -- I'd appear very overconfident probably because obviously, some problems are going to arise. We are very well prepared. We have opted for a strategy that allows us to draw our learning experience, thanks to Ecublanc. And we are already at a very high level of automization. And the whole teams have get to -- have to get used to working with IT in a different way. But it's not that difficult. So if something does not work, something needs to change.
Iris Muller
executiveSo first of all, question. Is there any question in the webcast? No questions asked in the webcast. Well, at least I tried. Then let's continue and take the questions on site. Maybe at one point, we will have a question online. Any questions right here?
Unknown Analyst
analystJust a question about the safety stock initiative. I think it's definitely a very positive initiative. Now my major question is, what about the investment that's already been made? Are there going to be further investments necessary in terms of stock?
Unknown Executive
executiveYes, we have an additional initiative, which we just launched within the group. aiming, thanks to the introduction of the SAP system and the capacities, we'll be able to extend, meaning that if we need to raise our capacities within our own stocks like in view of Galexis, then we'll also have the capacities offered by Alloga, meaning that we don't need to make everything bigger in order to stock more products, but we use the capacities available in Alloga because in that case, it really was a question about the handover of property. And then within this, it was necessary to have a marketing measure in order to allow for us to go to market with what we have.
Unknown Analyst
analystJust a quick follow-up question. When you said it's an advantage in terms of competitors, can we think that we have carried the cost ourselves? What about security?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, in this case, we did have a win-win situation, which we built with Sandoz. We would not have been able to do it out of our own strength solely because we wouldn't have been able to ensure financing of such initiative. In case of Sandoz, it was a clear advantage in terms of the Swiss market and ensures their availability because they went in terms of stock market, it wasn't such a good thing to up their stock because they obviously wanted to ensure that they have a good standing, a good position. And thanks to working together, we really created a win-win situation, which made our customers a winner. Just in general and to complete that point, when we raise our stocks, it's particularly because of the limited margin in terms of the big markets, a lot of the cost is going to be carried by the producer.
Iris Muller
executiveHere a question at the center. [indiscernible] Partners.
Unknown Analyst
analystCould you tell us something -- could you tell us if Niederbipp and Ecublens are about the same size in terms of the site? And secondly, you're sharing the distribution margin with your data science. Have there been any changes compared to the past or in the recent past? And secondly, there's obviously a tendency to lower the prices. So what does that mean for us?
Unknown Executive
executiveSo it's 2 different questions. In the past, Ecublens was 1/3 and Niederbipp 2/3. Now with the transformation, we changed. In the end, Ecublens was just 1/5, but our goal consists of going back into the same proportion. Now that we have stabilized our activities, we'll be able to raise it again. Please let's not forget that about 1/10 of our volume goes through [indiscernible]. I don't mean it in the sense of still going through [indiscernible]. It's absolutely possible that we're going to raise the activity on the side of Unione in order to go beyond 1/10. And yes, we aim for Ecublens to be at 1/3 or more, which will allow us to go live safely. Secondly, margins. The fact is that when prices go low, the margins based on the turnover get lower, too, which we try to counter by adapting our tariffs in terms of logistics, allowing us thus to make our margin based on the actual work and not in terms of the value of the product. There should obviously be a relation in terms of the value of the product because that's a fact. If we have damage in terms of an expensive product, we need to have a certain guarantee and safety. But it also means that we provide a logistics service and we can invoice that. And yes, the market keeps asking for more efficiency, and we'll always do that. We do have new regulations, which will add pressure to the trade because it raises the need. And yes, that's an ongoing discussion. And we are trying our very best to follow up on it and to ensure that we have a stable and continuous performance in order to not become too dependent. The simple answer is no.
Iris Muller
executiveHere's our finance -- Chief of Finances. I'm just here myself. All right. And we do have a question asked in the chat. Yes, we did receive a question asked by [Stefan Schneider] from [indiscernible]. The question is, why aren't there any complete automization, let's say, with logistics robots?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, robotics. Robotics is progressing and fast. And we talked about this during the break. It would be a huge advantage for us if we could use parts of the robotics. In the past, robotics were not efficient in terms of initiating it, meaning that the use of it, we saw those turnarounds, which -- with the different lightings. That's something where we could use robotics, and that's something that's provided by the producers or the builders. But in terms of installing the system, it's still complex because we have different heights, weights, different movements. So if anything, say, drops, the whole system breaks down. So it's something that's complex, and it would need over-dimensional effort in terms of the people who can use the robots. But in terms of AI, we'll have a real game changer or at least we think we will because those machines can probably train themselves. And we have an ongoing discussion with our providers and have created conditions to test at least the possibilities of robotics in that sense.
Iris Muller
executiveThank you so much. Any last question?
Unknown Analyst
analystYes. I have a very basic question. Why is Galenica the best provider of logistics? Is there any reason? I have a second question. Is the CapEx cycle finished? Or do we need to invest further? And thirdly, don't you think that you enter into competition with diagnostics because all of these need capital. And in that sense, would it be possible to cut off logistics in order to have the necessary funds for diagnostics?
Unknown Executive
executiveAll right. So the question, if it strategically speaking, it makes sense. Well, I do have my own opinion, but it might be slightly tainted. Well, I'd be happy to answer. It's a question that we've often asked. Isn't the sum of all the parts higher than the individual numbers. And we always came to the conclusion that the sum of it all brings worth. But obviously, logistics is in our DNA, and we do have several synergy effects, particularly in terms of retail. We're close to the market, not just because of the pharmacy, but because also of the third market and because we feel the pulse of the market. And that's an important element when it comes to strategy, when it comes to acquisition and the development of certain sites because we're close to the market. And because of that proximity, we can provide exclusive services in terms of pharmacies that don't even go through a tender, and our competitors don't even hear about it. And when it comes to diagnostics, and that's interesting, we see an overlapping in terms of the focus because diagnostic brings us closer to one of our target groups, doctors. Because in the past, we had that proximity in terms of logistics and self-dispensation where we have roughly 1/3 of the market. But now together with diagnostics, it's one core part of the synergy because we can target our sales teams. I mean, aim our sales teams and have a common go-to-market approach and use this when we work with doctors and care providers in order to be seen as a partner. We're not just selling medication, but we're going to offer a full package in terms of lab services, too. In that sense, that works beautifully. In terms of logistics and thanks to a huge part of the market, we can open a lot of doors. You've also mentioned the need in terms of investments. And fact is that we are top of the pops when it comes to modern investments. But we do have a need for further investments on a smaller scale, renewables and others, but it's not going beyond a certain level. And in terms of CapEx, we did have a CapEx budget of EUR 70 million to EUR 80 million per year. Now with the last purchase in terms of lab, it's going to amount to EUR 80 million to EUR 90 million per year. And within that framework, we can work with each part. We did have [Apple 360]. Is that going to explain CapEx? No, it won't because the investment in terms of pharmacies and so on are going to be dealt with within the normal and standard CapEx budget. So that corresponds to roughly 1/4 of our global CapEx budget in terms of investment and CapEx.
Iris Muller
executiveAll right. Very good. I think it's about time that we close this Q&A. We will hear more during the afternoon about finances and are now going to take our lunch break. Thank you so much, Andy. Our lunch break happens on the first floor again next to the market stands, there's a flying lunch. And by the way, you can also measure your blood sugar because we are measuring [indiscernible] blood sugar. And we'll continue here at 1:30. This time this is correct, 1:30. We're looking forward to seeing you again, and that's when we continue with Labor team. Thank you so much. Enjoy your meal. [Break]
Iris Muller
executiveWelcome back, everyone. I hope you had a wonderful lunch. I was worried that I might spill food down my front, but I didn't. So I'm happy. And I've heard we have 22 people on the webcast. I hope you got a nice break too. Now you saw it at the market store with Labor Team, robots are not high in the skies for them, that's already a reality. And there were quite a few people who wanted to take Ginger home with them so that Ginger could assist at the office tomorrow, but Labor Team insists on taking Ginger back with them at a big square meterage, and we're here for Alain Cahen, who is a medical doctor and the CEO of Labor Team, and he's going to talk about the size of the central lab in Goldach. Alain, a very warm welcome to you.
Alain Cahen
executiveThank you so much for those wonderful words of introduction, ladies and gentlemen. I guarantee that I'm not a robot. I'm real. Now did you know that 70% of all medical diagnoses are based on laboratory analytics? And did you know that these 70% amount to no more than 3% of overall health care costs. You can see that lab analytics is highly efficient. And we've learned during the pandemic that we're relevant to keep the system going, 100,000 samples were dealt with by us in the period. Now that's what we're doing day after day. So this is what I'd like to show to you today. We're the fourth largest lab in Switzerland. And together with Galenica, we're going to provide for additional growth. We're a well-established player in this market, and we have deep market understanding. And the essential thing is that we're investing every year about EUR 7 million into our infrastructure, into digitization and into automation. I believe there's a bit of a technical glitch that we have here. Well, thank you. You can see the dynamism of the market, the lab market. It amounts to a total of about EUR 3 billion. So there is the private labs, that's also us, one half, then you have the hospital labs. And you have the GP labs in the practices. And that's special for Switzerland that doesn't exist anywhere else. And there are certain trends, of course, first is quite similar to what you would expect from other health organizations, so increasing test volumes. So of course, you want to know whether you're healthy or whether you're not healthy, people get older. And outsourcing is another trend of more and more labs, namely the hospital labs and the physician labs, they outsource to us, the private labs. Then market consolidation. That is ongoing. So smaller labs are really feeling the pressure, and we'll have to hand over to bigger labs. We're also testing a lot of volumes from other labs and the regulators. Last but not least, of course, we'll have to keep to the rates. The analysis is for lab medicines, [indiscernible] is true for pathology. We are the #4 labs in Switzerland, and our home is Goldach. In Switzerland, we have 350 people that used to be 400 during the pandemic. And the special thing is that we cover all of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. So we can do that, that sets us apart from the crowd and has to do with our sophisticated logistics and 25 people will take care of that. We have a one site strategy. That's important. So how big is that? That's the answer that [indiscernible] asked more than 12,000 square meters or even 12.5 to be exact. And we offer more than 2,000 tests, which is unbelievable amount. And that's important because we test everything ourselves. More than 99% of what is coming in will be tested in Goldoach. So 7 million tests a year, do the math and we'll end up with the day-to-day tests. And we're led by doctors. It's not just me. My colleagues have undergone scientific and medical training. That's the management and the labs, of course. So we understand the language of the customers, which are medical doctors. The next essential thing one-stop shop, everything under one roof, the lab medicine and pathology. And that's a rare occurrence in Switzerland to have everything under one roof, so the pathologist can talk to the medical doctors about certain patients. Let's embark upon a journey shall we? Where does my blood go? You will ask that. It's not just blood because we do all kinds of bodily fluids, so everything, but also cells, what have you. And on the Swiss map, you can see we go from the bottom left to the top right. That's the longest possible journey from Geneva to Goldach. So first and foremost, you need a prescription. So the doctor tells you to undergo a certain checkup. So blood sampling, biopsy, what have you. And the essential thing is an electronic order, which is crucial, and we have our own IT because when the order is placed in Geneva, we know that something is coming our way in Goldach immediately, which comes with a lot of advantages. So we have a sophisticated logistics. We have bike couriers. We have used the trains and other couriers. So that's a maximum of 5 hours, 4 hours on the train and 30 minutes each for the 2 couriers on the bike. And we've externalized that. So they are external partners, 60 external partners in Switzerland who work with us. So we've arrived with the sample on the top right. What happens in the lab? 70% of the volumes that comes to Goldach come to the core lab. We've opened doors in January. That's the biggest and most complex lab in Switzerland. So I could explain a lot. But we... [Presentation]
Alain Cahen
executiveAnd the second one is lack of staff. We obviously need time and resources within Labor team and in the structuring of that team. It's also necessary to counter the lack of specialists. Those machines do not and never will work on their own. They don't need activation as such, but we also need the necessary tests, which must be validated. There's a question of quality control, all of that's important. Automation, hence, is important, but we not only do automation. We do innovation. And I think that within our industry, we are top of the class when it comes to innovation. Within the last 3 years, we have launched 15 new tests on the market, which is something that the industry as such should provide, but it's been slacking recently. And we have decided and clearly put it on our banner that we want to provide the service, particularly including tests for endometriosis and prostate cancer. We're the only innovative laboratory that offers this kind of test. And we have hence received a lot of requests by university hospitals who are now sending us order. But even before that, and I've mentioned the pandemic and as a lab team, we had up to 10,000 additional orders per day in terms of coronavirus test. That's 10% of the tests in Switzerland, which were carried out by us, but we were also the first ones to provide those tests. And then we were the first lab that was ensured an interface with the federal office in order to transfer and transmit the results of the test. And we help others do the same. So our journey within the lab is something that we have seen, but it doesn't end there because after the arrival in the lab, we need to transfer the results, and that happens electronically through Internet, through the different networks. And so this is highly digitalized. IT is the backbone of any kind of laboratory. And in our case, it's very particular. We have more than 30 coworkers. And I keep saying that, in fact, we are an IT company because we have all those interfaces. We've got the impact in terms of development of our machines and everything else. As of now, 80% of our orders are dealt with electronically. And we also transfer the results electronically. And that is an inverse strategy. And in fact, our competitors do the opposite. So they internalize one thing and then externalize the rest. And my colleague, Mr. Brinkmann, out there in the back is very proud because we are the first green lab in Switzerland. And we are one among only 4 in Europe who were certified as the first green and sustainable laboratory. And it's not just related to our logistics, it's our ecology with the use of green energy and circular economy that we apply everywhere we can. And that's something that distinguishes us on the market. So what's next? Particularly when it comes to our collaboration with Galenica, there's a lot of possibilities in order to have further growth. We have organic growth, which is the first target. We know our clients, and we're very close to them. And we've seen where we can make a difference, thanks to our innovation. That's the first aspect. Secondly, we are aiming for inorganic growth. We have added 2 acquisitions as Labor Team within the last 4 years. And we are watching the market and very closely and want to ensure an organic growth as well. And finally, in the end and with the Swiss company, we want to raise the Swiss flag. And we want to generate new ideas, continue on our path of innovation, and that is something that is going to happen, thanks to the partnership with Galenica and it's going to add further growth. I hope that I was able to give you a quick overview of what's going on in our industry, what happens in terms of Labor Team. I will probably answer all of your questions, but we'll pass the mic first back to Iris.
Iris Muller
executiveThank you so much, Alain. It was very interesting. And from the beginning on, we were asked a few questions about Labor Team when the Q&A was available.
Iris Muller
executiveLet's see how many of these questions are still unanswered as of now. Let's start here.
Unknown Analyst
analystMy question concerns the fact that you said that you have a huge advantage because of your site. What about acquisitions? Do you simply implement these on your platform? Or can you imagine creating a second site in order to gain further speed?
Alain Cahen
executiveThat's a very essential question. I think that when it comes to routine, then it's definitely the core lab that's going to fulfill that role. When it comes to specificities, things that happen somewhere in a small lab, somewhere in Switzerland, we probably decide case based. But that's probably something that we use in case of any specialty popping up.
Iris Muller
executiveNext question.
Unknown Analyst
analystYes, it's a question basically going into the same direction. You said you do have more than one lab.
Alain Cahen
executiveYes, that's a fact. We have one strategic site, meaning that the big volumes are sent to Goldach. And yes, we have done 2 acquisitions, the hemostatic and thrombosis center in Zurich, and we have a second acquisition in Lausanne, center for pathologies, and those are going to remain on site. Now these are organizations that are kind of manageable. It's fewer than 50 people. And if we do not need to integrate them and if the process continues to work the way it does, it's going to work perfectly well. So fact is we do not have one site, but our main site, our core site, say 90% still happens in Goldach. And to add something to this, particularly when we talk about the future, our targets and goals, then it's important to maintain this type of structure, which offers a huge strategic advantage of this one efficient site. And that allows us to integrate quickly any new acquisition that we'd make in the future. During the pandemic, we were slowly reaching the limits of our capacities. And that's one of the aspects why we decided to invest further. And we have made a huge effort in order to make sure that this volume -- this type of volume can be treated in Goldach.
Unknown Analyst
analystNow an additional question. If you take over an additional lab, do you also take the client base or not really?
Alain Cahen
executiveWell, no. Let's take the example of the center for hemostasis and thrombosis. It's the leading lab for hemostasiology, meaning for this type of pathology that exists elsewhere. But in this case, they are leaders. And so it's a doctor's office and the lab. And depending on the test, we can optimize what we do. Now the customer base is based everywhere in Switzerland, but the lab is in Zurich. And if the client is in Zurich, there's no point in transferring the results -- the tests to Goldach.
Unknown Analyst
analystSo it's a standard lab that you would take out, you would take over, you'd integrate it in Goldach?
Alain Cahen
executiveWe need to decide case base. That might be the logic, but there also might be reasons why we do that later or not at all.
Unknown Analyst
analystHow about the capacities in Goldach? Can you add further machines in case of incredible sudden growth?
Alain Cahen
executiveYes, we've already done that. The machines that you saw in the video, well, I can give you the approximate numbers. Before we had them, we had reached 60% to 70% of our volume for back then. And we have added 50% in terms of volume. So from 70%, we are now effectively on 80% in terms of free capacities and free volume. And then obviously, we can still make more and get additional machines if needed.
Iris Muller
executiveOkay. Excellent. Let's start in the middle. No, let's continue here because you have the mic.
Unknown Analyst
analystYes. Did -- you made the calculation in terms of capacity. So we're talking about CHF 14 million turnover up to CHF 200 million with the existing infrastructure. Is that correct?
Julian Fiessinger
executiveThat question is not simple, and I did not make this type of calculation. I'd say this is approximately correct. And that depends also on the question whether we have a routine or specialty.
Unknown Analyst
analystHow about the margins? Do we need to think that with each additional Swiss franc, there's going to be a positive impact in terms of margin? And could you tell us where about the margins are, like globally, Switzerland speaking, like Swiss speaking in that industry?
Iris Muller
executiveSo if anyone has an answer, I'll pass you the mic.
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, within the market, and we saw it Labor Team is top efficient. And it does hold the benchmark within the trade, but we cannot give you any numbers, generally speaking. If we look just at Labor Team within its context and with its actual charge, then we have an EBIT margin of about 20% and EBITDA on 15%. Now the question of the future is an actual good question because on the one hand, we have regulations, lawmakers. And I might anticipate something because yesterday, our Federal Council, Ms. Schneider has announced a package of cost reduction. We were expecting it as part of actual common sense, which is needed, and that happens in anticipation of the review of the actual list -- analysis lists and the new prices. So on the one hand, we lower margins. But when we look into the future, the fact is that small labs are going to have difficulties to follow up, and they'll have difficulties to raise the volume that they're dealing with. So these are the 2 variables that we see. On the one hand, we have the potential to have more volume or manage more volume. And on the other hand, there is obviously the context. Now given with what was communicated yesterday, we do think that it's not going to improve our margins. If we say roughly 20% or 15%, which I've mentioned, that's probably the level that we're at for the next years.
Unknown Analyst
analystMaybe one last question and the question whether that has an impact on the margins. But if we do send a result on the machine, then -- now I forgot what I wanted to say, does the market grow structurally within Switzerland? Or is it more additional market shares that will allow you that growth?
Alain Cahen
executiveWell, it is a market where we push each other out.
Unknown Analyst
analystWhat do you mean structural growth?
Alain Cahen
executiveThe fact that there's more and more tests that are run globally speaking. Obviously, it's a mix. There are more tests, more analysis and -- more analysis that need to be done. But it is a -- it's a market that pushes and where we push each other out. That's a fact. And I think I've shown that in my presentation.
Iris Muller
executiveThank you so much. Let's continue in the middle. And afterwards, we continue and take questions from the webcast, if there are any.
Unknown Analyst
analystThank you so much. My first question concerns security. And we saw that in terms of IT, there have been cyber attacks, which did have massive impact. What's your structure? What's your take on this?
Alain Cahen
executiveIt's a very important question. I've been there for 4.5 years, and we did raise our levels of IT securities time and again. But we do have daily attacks. But nevertheless, despite these attacks, we did not have any incident. It's obviously a subject where we need to invest that we need to promote and that's particularly important when it comes to the healthcare system.
Unknown Analyst
analystSecond question, there's going to be a probably split between specialty and routine testing, which is something that you've mentioned. I know that there's no clear definition, but maybe both definition would still be helpful. And if you could define those 2 parts.
Alain Cahen
executiveWell, that's a complex question when it comes to specialty and routine. And we can look at it from different angles. It could be seen from like the side of the machine that does the work or when we look at the clinical side of a test. It's not that clearly defined within that industry. I'd say it's 1/3, 2/3. And we mustn't forget that there's pathology, which as such is a specialty. But within the specialty, there's also routine cases. So I'd say 1/3, 2/3.
Unknown Analyst
analystOkay. Wonderful. And my last question in terms of long-term margins, if we look at those 10% that we saw within the last years, how much -- how long will it take you to reach that target, because when we talk about 10%, and it's quite significant? But if we calculate it for margin, it will probably cut it in half. How much time would you need to counteract this kind of movement?
Unknown Executive
executiveYes, we saw that during the last tariff adoption. And obviously, we could feel the impact, but we were able to digest it. So it might go down 1 year and then go up again the year after. It depends on the impact in the end, and it depends on the size of it. But we mustn't forget that the small labs are probably going to disappear. Now if we say 10%, that would be absolutely dramatical for the small labs, but that volume has to go somewhere. So we'll be at least at 10% of the volume or more. So we come out winning. And we expect further price cuts in the future. That's just part of it. That's part of the context and of our framework, and that's how we plan. And in combination in terms of the volume, we will be able to compensate the loss of margins or at least partially compensate. And I'd like to add that it's important in terms of pathology and lab medicines 2 different tariffs, which makes it possible to better manage the risks related to each.
Iris Muller
executiveAll right. I heard and I come back for additional questions, but we do have 3 questions in the webcast. Yes, that's a record for today. I have several questions by Sebastian Vogel who is with UBS. Question number one, how stable have these margins been over the past 3 to 4 years? Second, what's the capacity in the core lab? And third, how about the regulatory environment over the coming 2 to 3 years?
Alain Cahen
executiveWell, that's 3 completely different questions. Allow me to get back the stability, yes. That's a complex question because we just started out with new operations. So of course, we boosted our margins with that. But you have to have a look at each and every sector. We used to have the clinical pathology and immunology as separate, and they're now together. So it's quite hard to answer that question. Well, on margins, the important thing that I should say, we could tend to have a look at individual technical department, but the reality is more complex. You have to measure according to the profitability of each customer. So if you have a medical doctor with a higher volume, that's a more attractive customer. And of course, in the focus of our customer relations. And to give you a gastroenterologist, they do biopsies and the blood samples go to the lab, but that's mix. So you have to look at one order really.
Iris Muller
executiveOkay. Two more questions on the webcast I hear. Yes. Next question from Miro Zuzak from JMS Investment and it's about synergies. So whether strategic or those synergies exist between Labor Team and the pharmacies?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, in the pharmacy sector, of course, synergies are possible and we have them on our list. But when realizing synergy, we're focusing, first and foremost, on the obvious thing, the link to the medical doctors where we have those interfaces with the customers. And going forward, of course, we have further development in the services and pharmacies. So there's quite a lot of idea in the combination with test opportunities or checkups or blood sampling for medical doctors. So it's not -- it's all about the capacities there, and we have the potential in pharmacies. But still, that's subject to regulatory change and the services in pharmacies are still in the beginning phase, but we're focusing on the first obvious synergies.
Iris Muller
executiveAnd the last question before we continue to our next topic. You had a question there, yes.
Unknown Analyst
analystJust to clarify really. Are there any white spaces or in your lab potential? Or are you offering everything? Or is there room for expansion?
Alain Cahen
executiveThat's also a complex question because theoretically, those white spaces will always been there for future tests that we are not even aware of that they exist today. Molecular biology brings to mind. So many things are happening there, but both the management, Board and we have really good connections with the companies in that field. So basically, we're covering everything, as I showed you at 99% -- 99.5% even is what we're dealing with. And that's going to remain the case.
Iris Muller
executiveWe have yet another question from the webcast. That's the very last question. Yes, [ Ian Whitmore ] from [indiscernible]. And he's asking in terms of the pharmacy testing, what's the cost advantage that you expect from that?
Unknown Executive
executiveWell, right now, I must admit it's a small percentage. really. We haven't even measured that separately. But the synergy potentials for pharmacies, we'll have to see, we'll have to develop that together and define the use cases to go with.
Iris Muller
executiveAll right. Thank you. That completes this Q&A. Thank you very much along to you. Very fascinating insights. And save the best for last, as they say, Julian, the floor is all yours now for the market and the insight into the regulatory environment and the financials.
Julian Fiessinger
executiveThank you, Iris. And I would now like to take the opportunity to thank the colleagues for the exciting presentations and the insight into our business. And I'd like to seize this opportunity to talk about the market, give you an outlook of the regulatory environment and our financial key figures. The past few years, we saw a quite benign market environment with constant, stable growth rates. And to advance on that, that's the dynamism that we are expecting for the coming years. There are 3 markets that are especially relevant for us. That's pharmaceuticals and medication. Consumer healthcare market is second and new, the diagnostics market for lab services. The most relevant one is pharmaceuticals, and that market grew constantly between 3% and 5% a year over the past 5 years. So volumes grew because people get older, but that's not the driver for growth. Higher prices were drivers for growth because of new innovation. We saw that with the GLP-1 drugs last year. We expect that trend to continue. For Consumer Healthcare, the market has been rather flat. So OTC over the past few years increased slightly and non-medication, we have seen a flattened, slightly decreasing trend given the higher competition by mass retail and online. We expect that trend to continue. And as you heard from Alain for Diagnostics, we expect higher volumes given that the consumer are more health aware, get a lot of information about new tests and checkups and the trend for more evidence-based medicine for medical doctors. So an attractive market with stable demand and growth due to new innovation. Let us lay that out with the regulatory environment. We're in a regulated business. A large part of our sales is based on regulated prices. 56% in the pharmacies, 70% in wholesale are based on prescription drugs, but also a large part of diagnostic services and a part of medical products for the home care market are subject to regulation, to price regulation. And last year, if you have a look at that, there were 3 types of initiatives that were dealt with. On the one hand, the initiative to drive down costs, quite obviously, so many discussions around that. So it's prices of drugs, 1/3 of all medication prices are being reviewed and lowered. You're familiar with that. That's a standard process that is going to continue. Then there was the motion doubler which would have seen that the health insurances would have reimbursed medication from abroad, the territorial principle, but that's off the table because the Council of States voted that down. When it comes to home care, that's Bichsel, clinical nutrition, there's a system change coming our way, starting at the earliest in 2027. In Bichsel, home care services were fully been compensated via the product margin will lower that, but we'll have a component compensating for that. So all in all, the effects are not yet too clear. But for Galenica, we expect that to be a neutral effect. And the last point is labs. So 2 important points. So [indiscernible] will be launched in January 2026. That will be a neutral thing for Labor Team, and that's the positive thing. And the second thing, there is an adaptation of the analysis list with a price reduction starting in January 2027 as was communicated yesterday. We expected that when acquiring Labor Team. One essential point on rates and fees that the service-based remuneration # 5, which was approved, which is positive. So we're no longer in a state where there are no contracts. We can now plan ahead. So generally, all these changes have to be cost neutral for Galenica that LOA V is a slight opportunity because we've concentrated on blistering with Medicfilm and automated blistering will be compensated for in the future. And the last point, the initiatives on digitization of healthcare. The first point, OTC liberalization, and we've mentioned it will come our way at the earliest in 2029. Then there is DigiSanté, an intensive discussion on further digitization of healthcare, and we're quite active in the associations there. The project is also supposed to boost e-medication, that's e-prescription, but also eMediplan. Those are all initiatives that we strongly support. So you can see quite a lot of discussion, a bit of a risk when it comes to regulators, in part, opportunities for Galenica, but we can manage all of these topics that we've discussed, we believe. Before getting to the guidance, let me have a look at the reporting. With the acquisition of Labor Team, we've sat down and really thought hard about how to show Labor Team sales in our annual financials. And we also called into question what we're doing now. In the future, there will be -- continue to be 4 business areas. Pharmacy's omnichannel, number one. So online and brick-and-mortar together, that is in line with our strategy as omnichannel player. There are so many initiatives that you heard about Click and Collect, e-prescriptions. That has to do with good interaction between on and offline. And that is why we'll be showing the sales together. Second, products and brands, unchanged essentially. Then services and production that used to be services and professional has now been developed further. So Bichsel Home Care, Life stage and Medifair as well as the production at Bichsel. We actively decided against a separate home care area because an essential element of our home care strategy, medication is not included in these companies. And fourth, we have transparent show of sales for diagnostics. Logistics and IT, one adaptation will only show the sales to third parties that has created value. External that used to be a group internal IT services, but that takes us back to the profitability in the segment because that could be -- boost the margin. And that's why that will lower the profitability slightly. Let's have a look at the guidance now, shall we? For the half year, we increased the guidance so plus 3% to 5% sales growth unchanged. EBIT, 7% to 9% in growth now that we've acquired Labor Team, EBIT and sales will go up. So 4% to 6% in net sales and the EBIT guidance has been increased to 10% to 12%. The important thing to mention here that the 10% to 12% means that the acquisition-related depreciation and amortization on intangible assets is not increased. Besides that, our dividend guidance is going to be unchanged with at least constant dividends. Two years ago, we have published a medium-term guidance for the year 2027 so our 100th anniversary. So it's not the time now to discuss a new medium-term guidance, but the time is right to take stock and see where we stand today in terms of the communicated targets as they were defined 2 years ago. During the last medium-term guidance, we had 5 targets in 5 areas. First of all, market growth as key planning assumption. In this case, this has materialized, and we have reached -- I mean, we have communicated 3% to 5% as a baseline, and that's what happened. In the future, we continue using this baseline as it seems the best evaluation possible. We then have specific targets in terms of profitability per segment. Products & Care, we have a goal of a profitability of 9.5% and beyond. This target is going to be reached without inclusion of Labor Team. As I've said, we believe that thanks to Labor Team, this margin is going to be increased. So we still don't know exactly how much that depends also on the regulatory context. In logistics and IT, we do have a margin of up to 2%, which were communicated. It is obvious that after a successful implementation of the ERP in logistics, the margin is going to increase, and we are gaining in terms of efficiency. Because of the reclassification of internal IT, which I've mentioned, we will not quite reach the target of 2%. The third point was definitely the most important KPI. It was a goal in terms of EBIT of CHF 250 million. We will achieve this target even without including the Labor Team. We are going to achieve this, thanks to a clear focus on cost and efficiency. In recent years, we have established professional structures, particularly in IT. Now it is a matter of curbing this cost related to growth and achieving efficiency in terms of the gains. Then debt ratio, we have a target of cutting it by a factor 2. After the acquisition of Labor Team, nevertheless, we are going to even be higher than that, and we're talking about 2.3 or 2.4 in total. We do not feel that this needs immediate action because as time goes by, that value is going to decrease. In terms of dividends, things remain unchanged, and we apply the guidance of stable dividends between the present year and this year, which is going to increase as the earnings do. As you can see, we're on track with our medium-term guidance, and we are confident that we will achieve our ambitious targets.
Iris Muller
executiveThank you so much, Julian. Thank you.
Iris Muller
executiveAnd this brings us to our final round of Q&A. Marc, you're with us again, and we're going to open up for your questions. Please ask away.
Unknown Analyst
analystJust a quick question in terms of EBIT guidance or margin guidance. Where are we at in terms of return of investment is up to 2% that you've mentioned? How do we need to read this? Is it the absolute minimum, 1.8% as baseline or minimum or 1.9%? Is there a specific target?
Julian Fiessinger
executiveNo. We obviously try to reach 2% for as much as possible. And we said up to 2% because we knew that this is the absolute benchmark when it comes to this matter. And that's why we did not announce 2% as a direct goal. But now with our internal IT, the development of it all, we have reached a level of 1.5%. And in that sense, 1.8%, 1.9% is a really good guideline or target line.
Unknown Analyst
analystMaybe let's take a second question. In terms of the debt ratio, as you said, it's a bit higher than the factor 2 you announced. And we -- you are looking into further acquisition. Is there a chance that in the end and in the long run, it's going to be above those 2%? And I'd also like to add something in terms of Redcare and the joint venture. How is it going? Are you satisfied? Have you reached what you have wanted when you decided to proceed with this fusion?
Julian Fiessinger
executiveYes. Thank you so much for this question. Obviously, the debt ratio depends on 2 components, 2 possibilities in the end to improve it, either we lower the debt or we raise the EBIT. Ideally, obviously, it's second. But it's obvious also that when we find new acquisition and we find a big attractive target, then there might be measures in terms of capital in the joint venture. But what's important in the actual structure with smaller acquisition, we do not see an immediate need for action. Then in terms of Redcare, I have to say that the partnership is excellent. We are very happy with what was reached in Switzerland. The collaboration is excellent. The contact within Redcare works well. They have excellent growth. And in terms of profitability, we do see that this is a full success. And we also find that the collaboration with the staff at Redcare is rich, very comfortable. We're extremely confident and positive in terms of the further and future development. The strategy with the online channel, having somebody who's got this online channel within their DNA is that definitely pays in terms of the strategy.
Iris Muller
executiveAny other questions? Yes.
Unknown Analyst
analystHere, my first question in terms of EBIT. Is that going to be adjusted in terms of the acquisition of Labor Team? Is that going to have an impact in terms of the EBIT?
Julian Fiessinger
executiveWell, we have seen it. The numbers that we need to deliver in terms of regulation of immaterial value and the calculations behind it are hard to understand, which is why we considered to clear it up in order to actually show the added value, the real added value.
Unknown Analyst
analystAnd when we receive the statements in terms of this new structure?
Julian Fiessinger
executiveThe new structure is going to be kicked off in '28, and we are going to adapt the periods which we use for comparison.
Iris Muller
executiveWe do have a question online, Florian. Yes, a question from Sebastian Vogel from UBS. Why did you not adopt the midterm guidance despite Labor Team?
Julian Fiessinger
executiveWell, that's a good point, and I would have liked to adapt it, but one important point was confirmed yesterday in terms of the communication by the confederation. There is a huge insecurity in terms of regulation. And we do think that margin is going to be increased and that the profitability of 9.5% cannot be considered a baseline depending on where it goes. Globally speaking, we'll see what can be added to the price calculation. Right now, we're at a profitability of roughly 15%. We do think that it's not going to drop anywhere beyond 9.5%. And between all of that, mathematically speaking, a lot of options are possible.
Iris Muller
executiveRight. Anyone else would like to ask a question. Maybe a question about home care because we have not talked about this in depth today. Does it remain a growth market? And what's the priority?
Julian Fiessinger
executiveWe do see it as a growth market, and it remains within our main focus. Marc has mentioned it this morning. It's something that's deeply anchored in our strategy. And we have been reorganizing this area within our group and with our partners. And we will have a platform for this kind of products and services, obviously, which will be a joint market development.
Iris Muller
executiveExcellent. So last call for your last questions. And if not, the time has come to say goodbye. And Marc, you have the stage in order to sum up and end this meeting.
Marc Werner
executiveYes. Thank you so much, Iris. Thanks all of you for having participated today. Thank you for your questions and for the discussions we were able to have during breaks. Let's pass the mic on to Julian.
Julian Fiessinger
executiveThank you. Well, I hope that today, you have gained some new perspectives on Galenica and have a clear vision of where Galenica stands within its transformation. Marc said it this morning at the beginning of the day. Our transformation is based on a strong corporate culture as well as the active involvement of all employees. We are not developing this transformation because it's fun, but we do want to have the tools in order to develop our activities further. And we want to be the first point of contact for anything related to health and advice. We are continuously developing our range of advisory services by counting on qualified and motivated staff and by constantly improving the customer experience. All of these initiatives are here so that we can inspire our customers and gain market share for a sustainable and profitable growth. Then Thomas talked about consumer healthcare through targeted investment and innovation. Thanks to Verfora, we have the leading consumer platform in Switzerland, and we are continuing to focus on expanding these new channels and a sustainable supply chain. We then had Andy Koch, who will talk to us about wholesale and logistics. In that area, we are increasing our efficiency and thus, security of supply through automation and digitalization. We have new partners and we will gain in terms of efficiency, thanks to those new automated systems. And finally, thanks to the acquisition of Labor team, we were able to enter into the diagnostics business, thanks to a highly efficient team in Goldach, which is now part of the Galenica network by opening up a new field of growth. We are convinced that we have the right strategy. We are going to focus on a consistent strategy in order to remain the leading service health provider in Switzerland. It now is time to thank you, Iris, for hosting today's event and with so much charm. I'd also like to thank our communication teams and Investor Relations teams because without you, such a day would not be possible. A big thank you to our technicians who put us in the right light and spotlight. And a big thanks to you, dear investors, analysts and guests. Thank you for your trust in us. Thank you for your participation, your interesting questions, and thank you for taking time to engage with Galenica. We are just on time. And to end this all, I have the pleasure to now invite you to the guided tour in the [ Stathouse ]. Marc and myself are going to participate, and [ Celia Bachmann ] is going to be our guide. We will have this 30-minute guided tour before having an imperative in order to share additional time for discussions and questions. Please take your personal items with you because this room is going to be cleaned out. Thank you so much. And I'm looking forward to seeing you now. [Statements in English on this transcript were spoken by an interpreter present on the live call.]
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