VETOQUINOL Corporate brochure 2012 (year 2011)

12 HIGHLIGHTS _ EUROPE APRIL The Lure and Tarare (France) sites obtain European AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) customs certification, designed to identify the most reliable economic operators. 01 JANUARY 01 > Launch of the new image of Equistro ® , with a view to satisfy more closely the needs and expectations of vets and end users. Europe numerous launches, promising products Present in most European markets, the Vétoquinol Group further strengthened its close relationship with the veterinary profession and accelerated the process of expanding its product portfolio. The European animal health market, which represents about a third of the global market, shows the following trends: • in the livestock segment (cattle, pigs and poultry), pig production is steadily gaining ground relative to cattle production. The decline in the cattle population, along with a trend towards larger cattle farms, is offset by the relatively high average expenditure on health per animal compared to other regions; • in the companion animal segment, the number of pets is increasing steadily. The use of veterinary services is also increasing; pet owners are more concerned about the well-being and health of their pets. Sales of veterinary medicines and non-medical products have grown over the past four years, particularly in the companion animal sector. Despite the decline in cattle populations, veterinary expenditure on livestock animals in Europe continues to grow and still represents the largest share of the veterinary medicines market. Although the distribution channels for veterinary medicines vary depending on the country, veterinary practitioners are very often key players in the prescription and delivery of drugs.