Even as valuation concerns have brought hurdles in pharma biggies’ sellout plans, small healthcare companies are trying their luck.
In a recent event, Span Diagnostics is in talks to dilute about 25 per cent promoter stake. According to sources, the the Bombay Stock Exchange-listed entity is in discussion with US and European diagnostic majors to sell promoter stake. The company, based in Gujarat’s Surat, has appointed Singhi Advisors to run the sale process.
Veeral Desai, managing director of Span Diagnostics, said the company was looking to bring strategic partner into it. “We have plans to expand our presence in global markets by roping in a global player,” he said. The official refused to disclose the percentage of stake the company will dilute.
According to sources, the 1976-founded company is looking for a valuation of Rs 250-300 crore, and expecting to raise about Rs 75-80 crore through the stake sale.
Span Diagnostics manufactures various kinds of diagnostic/pathology lab devices, including sample test devices. The company has technical arrangement with the US-based Awareness Technology, Hitachi Chemical Diagnostics, R&D Systems.
The possibility of consolidation in the scattered diagnostic industry in India will attract more foreign as well as private equity investments. The immense growth potential in healthcare space may also boost the deal flow.
According to a KPMG study, the Indian healthcare industry is estimated to grow at a rate of 23 per cent per annum from the current size of Rs 1,75,000 crore ($35 billion) — to reach Rs 3,85,000 crore ($77 billion) by 2012. The diagnostics sector is projected to contribute Rs 12,500 crore ($2.5 billion), by 2012.
An overview of the medical diagnostics and devices market shows that as of FY08, the diagnostic and pathological laboratory test services market holds 52.1 per cent of share, followed by devices, said the report by the professional services firm.
Vikram Hosangady, head (healthcare), KPMG said the demand from the middles and upper classes for accurate and timely medical care is likely to increase with economic growth and their augmenting incomes. “As a result, healthcare expenditure will command a greater share of the wallet,” he added.
According to the study, there has been an approximately 25 per cent increase in laboratory business due to screening and follow-up test as a result of increased lifestyle diseases.
In one of the largest deals, Fortis Healthcare acquired Super Religare Labs (SRL) for Rs 850 crore last year. In previous year, SRL had bought Piramal Diagnostic Services for Rs 640 crore.
