Medsen is a chain of over 40 pharmacies in the Netherlands plus a modern GMP large-scale compounding pharmacy (Ceban). Medsen distinguishes itself through a number of innovations to make the pharmacy more accessible. For example Medsen has considerably simplified the ordering and collection process with 24-hour medicine vending machines and the pharmacy app, significantly reducing pharmacy waiting times. Ceban is a large-scale compounder of ad hoc and in-stock prescriptions. It supplies to pharmacies, hospitals and dispensing general practitioners.
Medsen was established in 1998 as a partnership between pharmacies. Since becoming a shareholder in 2009, Bolster has supported the company in structuring and professionalizing the organization, tightening the strategy and executing a buy-and-build strategy. During the period with Bolster as a shareholder, Medsen has grown considerably and the profit margins improved significantly. Medsen was sold to Bencis in 2018 through a management buy out.
We approach every investment with close attention to the business and the people leading it. We identify where opportunities emerge and act when the timing is right. In this way, we work as equal partners towards sustainable growth.
Our approach
In this series, Dutch novelist Ronald Giphart tells the stories behind Bolster’s portfolio companies. About entrepreneurship, the choices that were made, and what it means to partner with an investor.
Read more
