A study published in April 2021 by the Boston Consulting Group in partnership with France Biotech raises the question of the development of biotechs and medtechs in France and in particular a gap between the excellent level of our scientists and the absence of "champions" among our start-ups in the field of health.

This study reflects a collective reflection on the importance of relocating the production of healthcare products, often a strategic issue at the national level. This problem was highlighted, in particular, during the Covid-19 crisis and led, in July 2021, two months after this study, to the announcement of a recovery and development plan for the French pharmaceutical and medical device industry. This plan represents a total investment of €7 billion, of which €2.1 billion is earmarked for French healthtech startups.

This initiative was generally appreciated, both by players in the life sciences sector and, quite unusually for a government announcement, by the general public, who saw it as a way to preserve and develop French jobs, but also to extend the country's "influence".

However, a good initiative does not always guarantee good results. It is important to identify the problems that need to be solved.

What are the obstacles for French healthtech?

The study examines the main obstacles preventing the emergence of French healthtech "champions." It highlights two main obstacles:

  • The lack of coordination between public and private investment is what the Health Innovation 2030 plan addresses by implementing public investment supplemented by private investors.
  • The difficulties faced by French healthtech companies in terms of recruitment, particularly in attracting biotechnology experts and international profiles.

The importance of an employer branding strategy to attract these expert profiles lies in transmitting the values ​​and beliefs that form the foundations of our French healthtechs.

This is the goal we have set for ourselves at Vauban Executive Search, to be part of this collective movement and to contribute to the emergence of the French gems of tomorrow.