Reykjavik, Iceland-based Embla Medical is a leading innovator, developer and manufacturer of non-invasive orthopaedic products such as prosthetics and braces. Embla's core competency lies within working with silicones, carbon composites and mechatronics to help patients live according to its motto “Life without Limitations”. Best known for its world leading lower limb prosthetics, Embla is at the forefront in incorporating electronics into prosthetics and thereby creating products that more naturally mimic normal gait, increasing amputees' quality of life.
Primary risks include: 1) competitive product launches, with segments operating in highly competitive industries, 2) the growth in Prosthetics is currently driven primarily by increased unit prices as innovation drives trade up, while the volume growth is minimal. Failure by Embla Medical to prove its products’ value to payors and patients and thereby accept higher prices for innovation leaves Embla vulnerable to growth disappointments. 3) Embla is facing a balancing act, to improve efficiencies in its operations, diversify its supply chain while not disrupting its product quality or margins, and 4) high dependency on reimbursement changes (government and insurance) can trigger reduced spending and change product choices.