AS Watson Group saw its health-category sales increase 11 per cent last year with 1 billion shoppers purchasing health products from the brand globally.

The figures reflect a global uptick in the vitamins and supplements industry, which is growing at a rate of 12 per cent year on year internationally.

Shoppers for health products visit a Watson’s store 10 times per year on average, according to survey data released by the firm. Their spending is almost 80 per cent higher than general shoppers. 

“Vitamins and supplements have experienced the fastest growth of 12 per cent,” said group COO Malina Ngai. “We care about our customers’ health, and this is the second Global Health Survey we have commissioned, with the aim to ensure we stay abreast of their needs in their lifestyle. We will look for product and service solutions worldwide for our customers who increasingly want more control of their health.”

The firm also launched a strategic partnership with Prenetics last year to pioneer a personalised preventive digital healthcare solution through the launch of DNA home testing to focus on prevention instead of treatment, which has also boosted its health-category sales.