While several potentially disruptive forces could reshape the life sciences industry in 2025, the vast majority (75%) of global life sciences executives are optimistic about the year ahead, according to a recent survey from the Deloitte US Center for Health Solutions. This optimism is fueled by strong growth expectations, with 68% of respondents anticipating revenue increases and 57% predicting margin expansions in 2025. Additionally, ongoing advancements in science and technology could lead to more breakthrough innovations.
The Deloitte US Center for Health Solutions surveyed 150 C-suite executives from pharmaceutical, biotechnology, biosimilar, and medical device manufacturing companies across the United States, Europe (France, Germany, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom), and Asia (China and Japan) in August and September 2024 to learn about the industry’s concerns and priorities. Insights from interviews with three company executives further contextualise the cautious optimism that was revealed in the survey results. It should be noted that while the findings offer a comprehensive view of several global markets, they do not encompass a worldwide perspective. Additionally, this report highlights only the trends and actions that survey respondents rated as being “significant” or “very important.” In doing so, we aim to highlight the industry’s top priorities along with relevant and useful insights.
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Life sciences executives are focused on adapting, creating value, enhancing digital capabilities, and growing amid competitive pressure, business volatility, and changing customer needs. The executives we interviewed underscored the importance of proactive planning and strategic implementation. Evan Lippman, chief corporate development and strategy officer at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals,1 stated, “I’m exceptionally optimistic about the future. You need a strategy to take advantage of what the future will look like. That’s what will differentiate companies in the coming years.” Lippman also said that he is optimistic that innovation and leadership will be rewarded in the future.
The life sciences industry appears poised for significant transformation in 2025, driven by digital advancements and scientific innovations. Despite competitive pressures and business volatility, most global life sciences executives are optimistic about the future. “We are full of expectations for personalised medicine,” explained a senior vice president of a small German pharma company. “With advances in genomics and biomarkers, we can provide patients with more precise treatment options. This not only improves efficacy but also significantly reduces side-effects, allowing patients to have a better treatment experience.” Such advances demonstrate the power of innovative therapies and a path for navigating external pressures on pricing and reimbursement, regulatory processes, and geopolitical uncertainty.
The integration of technologies like gen AI and the increased use of data are expected to boost operational efficiencies and drive breakthrough innovations. As companies adapt to this evolving landscape, their ability to implement new initiatives will be crucial for differentiation and market expansion. The industry’s focus on advancing therapeutic solutions and improving patient outcomes highlights a promising future.
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