Can a UK-based consumer healthtech conquer the globe?
By Dominick Kennerson, Head of HealthTech and Medical Devices at HSBC Innovation Banking
Key Insights
Exceptional product design and deep user trust are foundational to scaling globally.
A strong narrative—especially to investors—is nearly as important as product-market fit.
Multiple financial paths exist: while venture capital boosts network and scale, bootstrapping or non-dilutive funding remain viable.
Narrative
The UK is well-positioned to produce global consumer healthtech leaders. Dominick Kennerson highlights how building around consumer trust—via data privacy and genuinely impactful product experiences—lays the groundwork for market leadership.
But vision isn't enough. Founders must craft compelling stories that resonate with investors and consumers alike. R&D success begins with listening to user feedback and using it to iterate product features and messaging.
Financial routes diverge, too. While VC investment brings scale and expertise, other founders succeed via bootstrapping or pursuing grants and non-dilutive options. Each path influences strategy—from hiring to timeline to investor alignment.
Kennerson cites a bold industry sentiment from late 2022: Andreessen Horowitz posited that “the biggest company in the world will be a consumer healthtech company,” underscoring both opportunity and competition. As global incumbents like Apple move deeper into healthcare tech, UK startups must double down on product quality, timing and storytelling.