Dutch healthcare M&A picks up in a stable European market
Newsletter I Healthcare I October 2026
New momentum
The European healthcare M&A market remained stable in the first half of 2026, with 649 completed transactions, almost the same as a year earlier. The Netherlands, by contrast, saw a clear increase in activity, with 37 transactions . Healthcare services and technology are attracting particular interest from investors.
Consolidation and technology drive growth
Staff shortages, increasing regulatory requirements and the need for more efficient healthcare delivery are driving consolidation across the healthcare sector. Healthcare services remains the largest segment in Europe, with 352 transactions . At the same time, healthcare technology is gaining momentum, with 90 transactions in the first half of 2026, the highest half-year level since 2022. AI applications, process automation and digital healthcare solutions in particular offer new growth opportunities.
Valuations are converging
Valuation differences between healthcare segments are also narrowing. Listed companies in most segments are trading at low double-digit EV/EBITDA multiples, while healthcare services continues to trade at a relatively lower valuation. Scalability, profitability and a strong market position therefore remain important factors for investors.
Buyers remain selective
Despite the positive developments, investors remain critical. Companies with predictable cash flows, strong market positions and demonstrable growth potential are the most attractive.
Life & Mobility finds partner for further growth
One of the transactions highlighted in the newsletter is the sale of Life & Mobility to Bolster Investment Partners. The Dutch manufacturer of mobility and rehabilitation solutions has gained a partner to support further international growth and product innovation. Oaklins advised on both the sale and the acquisition financing.
The Oaklins Healthcare Newsletter provides a more detailed overview of the European and Dutch healthcare M&A market, including market developments, valuations and recent transactions.
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