Better Health Report 2026

Europe's pharmacies are manufacturers' most trusted route into self-care

Self-care growth through pharmacy

More consumers are acting earlier on everyday health needs, using self-care to manage minor symptoms before they escalate. That puts pharmacy at the center of the decision – one of the most trusted places to go for quick and qualified advice.  

But that channel is not delivering its full potential. Online and retail competition, uneven training, and gaps in manufacturers support all limit how consistently pharmacy teams can deliver self-care recommendations effectively. 

Developed in partnership with AESGP, our Better Health Report 2026 draws on surveys with more than 500 pharmacists across France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain, plus over 20 expert interviews, to show how manufacturers can strengthen pharmacy as a self-care growth channel.

Simon-Kucher insights: Better Health Report 2026

Latest insights

Unlock success in self-care with Simon-Kucher

Simon-Kucher is uniquely positioned to help healthcare companies navigate these evolving trends. With our extensive experience in the healthcare sector and deep understanding of both healthcare delivery and self-care markets, we provide unmatched expertise. 

We assist companies in commercializing generative AI and other technological advancements to improve clinical decision-making and optimize care outcomes. Our focus on long-term, sustainable growth ensures you stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

Partnering with Simon-Kucher means gaining access to a global network of experts who are at the forefront of healthcare trends. We help companies improve their patient care strategies, adapt to the latest technological advancements, and achieve long-term success. 

Revenue growth management

Simon-Kucher helps consumer healthcare companies maximize revenue growth through robust net revenue management (NRM) strategies. We identify opportunities for optimization across the entire value chain. Whether it's improving pricing or the profitability of self-care products, we ensure you capitalize on every revenue opportunity.

Go-to-market and channel strategy

We develop effective go-to-market and channel strategies that align with evolving healthcare trends. Whether you're expanding into digital health platforms, retail pharmacies, or direct-to-consumer models, our tailored strategies ensure products reach the right consumers at the right time, maximizing market penetration and consumer engagement. 

Gross-to-net optimization

We excel in GtN optimization by helping you manage the full range of deductions that impact your bottom line. From rebates and discounts to returns and allowances, we identify opportunities to minimize revenue leakage and improve financial outcomes. Our comprehensive approach ensures you can optimize net revenue while maintaining competitive pricing and managing customer expectations. 

Brand and portfolio strategy

We craft powerful brand and portfolio strategies that resonate with today’s health-conscious consumers. By analyzing market trends and consumer needs, we help you build and manage a balanced product portfolio that meets diverse demands across segments. Our data-driven approach ensures each brand within the portfolio has maximum impact, driving growth and loyalty.

New product and assortment life cycle pricing

Our expertise in life cycle pricing helps you strategically price new products and manage your portfolio through various life cycle stages. Our approach balances competitive positioning with profitability, ensuring new healthcare products succeed in an increasingly crowded market.

Customer engagement and sales excellence

From digital health platforms to in-person interactions, we optimize sales processes to boost conversion rates and build long-term relationships. Our sales excellence framework empowers sales teams to excel in a competitive healthcare market, driving both customer satisfaction and business growth.

 

Unlock new opportunities in the growing self-care market with Simon-Kucher. Our experts will help your company stay ahead of the competition by leveraging the increased focus on personalized care and cutting-edge solutions like artificial intelligence (AI). Partner with us to drive innovation, enhance consumer engagement, and lead the future of self-care.

Contact our experts

Senior Partner
Munich, Germany
Partner
Munich, Germany
Senior Director
Copenhagen, Denmark
Partner
Paris, France
Director
Madrid, Spain
Senior Director
Cologne, Germany
Director
Mexico City, Mexico
Partner
Boston, USA
  • Better Health Report 2026
  • Better Health Report 2025
  • Better Health Report 2024
  • Better Health Report 2023

Better Health Report 2026

Consumers are acting earlier on everyday health needs, using self-care to manage minor symptoms before they escalate. This shift is strengthening the role of pharmacy in healthcare as more consumers proactively seek their guidance on self-care.

For manufacturers, pharmacy has become an influential channel – one that shapes what consumers choose, why, and how confidently they use the products.

Our latest Better Health Report, developed in partnership with AESGP, shows how manufacturers can better support pharmacy teams to strengthen growth across Europe.

Better Health Report 2025

People are taking greater control of their health, with prevention playing a key role in the evolving self-care landscape. Our latest Better Health Report, developed with AESGP, explores how this shift is changing consumer behavior and what it means for companies aiming to lead. 

Drawing on insights from over 2,700 consumers, the report highlights trends in digital adoption, AI in prevention, spending habits, and generational shifts—offering strategic guidance and real-world perspectives to help brands stay ahead.

Better Health Report 2024

Self-care is undergoing major transformation as trends like generative AI and personalization change how people engage with their health. These shifts are not only impacting traditional healthcare but also fueling rapid growth in the self-care sector. 

Our 2024 survey with AESGP explores this evolution, driven by empowered consumers, advanced technologies, and nearly 40 years of industry expertise, to reveal the key trends shaping the future of self-care.

Better Health Report 2023

Based on insights from nearly 3,000 respondents, our 2023 report highlights key trends in healthcare and the growing role of consumer engagement in disease prevention.

We explore digital vs. traditional approaches, uncover business opportunities, and offer guidance for companies across seven countries.

Contact us

Our experts are always happy to discuss your opportunities. Reach out, and we’ll connect you with a member of our team.