A&M Perspectives: How asset light pharmaceutical companies can augment value creation in a disrupted market environment
Over the past two decades, originator pharmaceutical businesses have increasingly disposed of late-stage drug portfolios to third parties. This has spurred the growth of asset-light pharmaceutical companies with radically different operating models. Operating through networks of Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations (CDMOs), these businesses avoid major capital expenditure, have greater flexibility, and can therefore focus on critical capabilities such as supply chain excellence, market authorisation and technical transfers.
While there are advantages, asset-light models are complex. Many different partners are involved, comprising of specialised CDMOs, distribution partners and a mix of in-house sales and country distributors. This leads to challenges related to demand planning, inventory control and cost control.
At the same time, asset-light pharma businesses are having to respond to global challenges including rising inflation, supply chain disruptions, Covid-19 outbreaks and growing geopolitical tensions.
Based on our experiences of delivering change for a range of asset-light pharmaceutical companies across Europe, we recommend five levers of value creation.
Five value levers for asset-light pharmaceutical businesses
- CDMO rationalisation and technical transfer excellence
- S&OP/ IBP upgrades
- Inventory and working capital optimisation
- Logistics simplification
- Digital tools deployment (commercial focus)
Download
Related Insights
Shocks to global supply chains are increasing in frequency and severity. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, new Covid outbreaks in China and rising interest rates in the US are occurring at once with ramifications for global trade. What steps can companies take to improve supply chain resilience.
The State of Transformation for U.S. Healthcare Providers
January 26, 2026
Market dynamics for health systems are shifting. The most significant driver is the federal Medicaid mandate, which expired at the end of December 2025 and is now pending legislation. This uncertainty is prompting health system leaders to rethink strategy and operations. In this context, we’ll share how other health systems are responding and what these changes mean for organizations like yours.
Strategic Agility for Healthcare Leaders: Building Resilience Amid Disruption
January 12, 2026
The healthcare industry stands at a critical crossroads, grappling with an era of profound disruption and uncertainty. Over the past two decades, the pace of change has accelerated dramatically, reshaping the competitive landscape and challenging the ability of all stakeholders to adapt.
Provider-Sponsored Health Plans: Bridge or Anchor?
December 17, 2025
Provider-sponsored health plans are no longer neutral—they either create enterprise value or drain capital. This analysis gives CFOs and CEOs a clear framework to decide whether to scale, partner, restructure, or exit.
The 2026 Transformation Imperative- Integrated Strategies for Hospitals, Health Systems and Provider-Sponsored Health Plans
November 13, 2025
The next 12–18 months will test hospital and health system leaders like never before. Transformation isn’t a buzzword anymore—it’s the work that will define who thrives in 2026 and beyond.
