Salveo

What Salveo does

Salveo d.o.o. is a privately held Croatian pharmaceutical distribution and marketing company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Zagreb. The company registers, imports, distributes, and markets over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and dietary supplements from a portfolio of 25+ brands (including Prospan, Isla, Tyrosur, Nisita, Otovent, Vaxol, Contractubex, and VedaLab home diagnostics) sourced from 9+ manufacturer partnerships, most notably a strategic relationship with Germany's Engelhard Arzneimittel. Salveo operates direct legal-entity distribution in 8-9 Central and Eastern European markets (Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, Poland, North Macedonia, Romania, and Bulgaria, with extended reach to Kosovo and Albania), serving pharmacies and healthcare providers as the primary B2B channel and operating a domestic Croatian e-commerce storefront for direct-to-consumer sales.

The company runs a sales-led go-to-market with dedicated country market directors, a Group CSO, a Group CMO, and a digital organization that includes the proprietary MyPharmaSpace B2B platform for pharmacist engagement, the Space2C professional-development and qLife magazine services, and the Biram Zdravlje consumer-health content platform, alongside the SPACE2TALK podcast and webinars aimed at pharmacy professionals. Ancillary businesses include the Poliklinika Salvea pediatric clinic opened in Zagreb in 2023. Salveo employs 100+ people across its markets (90% with higher-education backgrounds in natural sciences and economics) and is privately held with no disclosed external equity funding.

The business model is distribution-margin-based: Salveo takes a transaction take-rate on branded OTC and medical-device sales, with retail pricing in HRK on its domestic e-commerce site and pharmacy-channel wholesale economics in other markets. End customers are long-tail consumers seeking category-leading OTC products (Prospan has been the #1 cough syrup in Croatia and BiH since 2002), while supplier partners receive a turnkey CEE market-access bundle spanning regulatory registration, import, distribution, marketing, and sales support.

Name

Salveo

Legal name

SALVEO d.o.o.

Website

https://salveopharma.hr

Company type

Private

Founded year

2007

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

Salveo is a Croatian pharmaceutical distribution and marketing company that registers, imports, and distributes a 25+ brand OTC, medical-device, and supplement portfolio across 8-9 Central and Eastern European markets, serving pharmacies, healthcare providers, and consumers.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Pharmaceutical Distribution

NAICS

Drugs and Druggists' Sundries Merchant Wholesalers (42421)

SIC

Wholesale-Drugs, Proprietaries & Druggists' Sundries (5122), Wholesale-Medical, Dental & Hospital Equipment & Supplies (5047)

akta.pro primary industry

OTC & Consumer Health Distributors (HLAIAJAC)

akta.pro secondary industries

OTC Medicines & Consumer Health Products Distribution (CRAOAHAB), Cold, Flu, Cough & Allergy Remedies (Decongestants, Antihistamines, Cough Syrups, Lozenges) (CRADAMAD), OTC Pain Relief & Fever (Analgesics, Anti-inflammatory, Topical Pain Relief) (CRADAMAC), Eye, Ear & Nasal Care OTC (Eye Drops, Ear Drops/Wax Removal, Saline Sprays) (CRADAMAG), Sleep, Stress & Mood OTC (Sleep Aids, Melatonin OTC, Calm/Stress Relief) (CRADAMAJ), Allergy, Sinus & Respiratory (Non-Asthma) (HLAIADAC)

Keywords

• Pharmaceutical distribution
• OTC drug distribution
• Medical device distribution
• Regulatory market access
• Pharmaceutical marketing services

Headquarters

HQ city

Zagreb

HQ country

Croatia

HQ region

Europe

Offices2 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Supply Chain, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Pharmaceutical Product Distribution: Distribution of OTC (over-the-counter), medical products, prescription drugs, and dietary supplements across Central and Eastern European markets through registration, import, and distribution services.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

Salveo distributes and markets over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceutical products, medical devices, dietary supplements, and home diagnostics across Central and Eastern European markets. The company provides end-to-end services including regulatory registration, import, distribution, market research, and product promotion to pharmacy and healthcare partners. It supports manufacturers seeking CEE market entry and operates a portfolio of trusted consumer health brands such as Prospan, Tyrosur, and Isla.

Product overview

Salveo is a pharmaceutical company operating in Central and Eastern European markets since 2007, representing over 25 trusted OTC brands across 8 European markets. The portfolio includes core herbal medicines (Prospan, Isla, Sedistress), medical devices (Tyrosur, Nisita, Otovent, Vaxol, Contractubex, Auridol), OTC medicines (Rapidol, Cardiopirin), dietary supplements (Esprico, Pantogar, Flexofytol, Merz Spezial), and home diagnostics (VedaLab). The company also operates digital platforms including MyPharmaSpace B2B application for the pharmaceutical community, Space2C consulting services, and the Biram Zdravlje health information portal, along with Poliklinika Salvea healthcare clinic.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• MyPharmaSpace®: Innovative B2B digital platform and mobile application for the pharmaceutical community providing dynamic communication and information sharing
• Space2C
• Poliklinika Salvea
• Biram Zdravlje

Products and services

• Prospan Herbal cough remedy containing ivy leaf extract; the #1 herbal cough syrup worldwide, available as syrup, effervescent tablets, and oral liquid in sachets. Distributed to pharmacies and end consumers across CEE markets.
• Isla Throat Lozenges Herbal throat lozenges with Icelandic moss extract (mint, cassis, ginger flavors) for soothing irritated throats, relieving cough, and treating hoarseness. Sold to pharmacies and consumers.
• Tyrosur Topical antibiotic powder and gel for treating minor surface wounds, cuts, and abrasions. Prevents infection and accelerates wound healing.
• Nisita Nasal spray and ointment for cleaning and moisturizing nasal mucosa, relieving nasal congestion, and dissolving crusts. Physiologic composition suitable from first day of life.
• Otovent Calibrated balloon method for treating chronic ear inflammation by balancing pressure in the middle ear. Particularly designed for children.
• Vaxol Ear spray containing pharmaceutical-grade olive oil for softening and naturally removing accumulated earwax and protecting the ear canal.
• Rapidol S Soft gel capsules containing ibuprofen for oral administration. Achieves maximum concentration in 30 minutes (vs. 90 minutes for tablets). For treating pain, fever, and cold symptoms.
• Cardiopirin 100mg Enteric-coated aspirin tablets for preventing heart attack, stroke, and blood clot formation after certain vascular surgeries.
• Contractubex Gel Scar treatment gel with unique triple-action formula for physical scar healing, reducing scar visibility through antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Tyrosur CareExpert Wound care gel combining dexpanthenol, allantoin, and vitamin E that synergistically support natural skin regeneration after damage.
• VedaLab Home Diagnostics Home diagnostic tests including MENO-Check (menopause via FSH), THYRO-Check (thyroid via TSH), CRP-Screen (infection), and PYLORI-Screen (H. pylori). Designed for early detection and proactive health management at home.
• Pantogar Dietary supplement for addressing increased hair loss and promoting healthy, shiny, thick hair.
• Flexofytol FORTE Dietary supplement with standardized botanical extracts for maintaining joint, muscle, and bone health.
• Merz Spezial Merz Spezial dragees for healthy skin, hair, and nail cells; Hydro Glow capsules and serum with hyaluronic acid; Hair formula with 15 vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
• Sedistress Traditional herbal medicine for adults and adolescents over 12 for relieving mild symptoms of psychological stress, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.
• Silicol Gel Gel that binds toxins and harmful substances to treat heartburn, reflux, vomiting, and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Available in bottles and single-dose sachets.
• Panthenol Skincare Skin care products containing panthenol for moisturizing and regenerating dry, irritated skin. Suitable for after-sun care and everyday skin nourishment.
• Auridol Ear drops providing first aid for relieving pain and itching of the external ear canal and supporting treatment of ear inflammation accompanied by pain.
• Nosi Set Nasal aspirator set for effectively removing secretions from noses of infants, children, and adults for easier breathing and prevention of health complications.
• MyPharmaSpace Innovative digital B2B platform and mobile application for the pharmaceutical community, enabling dynamic communication, networking, and information sharing among pharmacists and pharmaceutical professionals. Provides a digital experience for partners to improve daily work and contribute to patient care.
• Poliklinika Salvea Children's health institution in Zagreb bringing together a top team of experts and collaborators in pediatric healthcare.
• Space2C Services Business concept providing additional value to partners and customers through idea circles, workshops using Points of You methodology, Friday Coffee discussions, and qLife magazine subscription.

Quantifiable outcome

• Prospan maintains #1 position in cough syrup market in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina since 2002
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers1 record

Segments2 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature1 record

Partnerships

Twelve partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Engelhard ArzneimittelcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerEngelhard Arzneimittel is Salveo's strategic marketing partner. Founded in 1872 in Germany (Niederdorfelden near Frankfurt), the company produces medications and medicinal products. Key products include Isla Moos lozenges (established 1860) and Prospan cough remedy with ivy leaf extract. Engelhard has over 140 years of experience and employs more than 200 qualified experts. Through this partnership, Salveo extends its reach to Kosovo, Albania, Bulgaria, and Romania markets.
• TilmanminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorBelgian pharmaceutical company specializing in phytopharmaceuticals, founded in 1956 by pharmacist Lucien Tilman. Now led by Jean-Noël Tilman and his sons Manoël and Mikaël since 2015. Tilman is a leading company in medicinal herbs in Belgium, with products available in about 30 countries from Europe to Australia and the Middle East. Their goal is to become the European specialist in phytotherapy with clinically proven herbal products.
• The OTCLabminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGlobal healthcare provider founded in 2016 by two visionary entrepreneurs, leveraging more than 50 years of healthcare innovation experience. Based in Amsterdam, The OTCLab provides comprehensive health services focused on making high-quality healthcare accessible to everyone.
• Farmacia NordicminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPrivate Swedish company specialized in pharmaceutical product distribution. Primarily operates in the Nordic region but expands its network across Europe. The company brings together a team with many years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Markets served include Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia.
• FW MedicalminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorBritish company placing medical products in Russia, Ukraine, and Central Europe. Sells a wide range of branded OTC drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, and dietary supplements through a network of distributors and sister companies. Products include aloe vera capsules, hangover products, breath fresheners, ear care products including patented cerumen removal spray, and Omega 3 fish oils. Serves fast-growing markets with over 300 million consumers.
• Bausch HealthminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGlobal health company focused on improving quality of life through innovative products. Produces and markets a wide range of branded and generic drugs, OTC products, and medical devices (contact lenses, intraocular lenses, ophthalmic surgical equipment, and aesthetic devices) in over 90 countries. Key focus areas: eye health (Bausch + Lomb), gastrointestinal diseases (Salix Pharmaceuticals), and dermatology. Headquartered in Laval, Quebec, Canada.
• MerzminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSuccessful research company known for over 100 years of offering high-quality, scientifically supported products. Founded in 1908 in Frankfurt and now owned by the 4th generation of the Merz family. Known for innovative and research-driven approach. Products include Contractubex, Hepa Merz, and PK Merz distributed through Salveo partnership.
• Pamex PharmaceuticalsminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGerman manufacturer of food supplements, medical devices, and pharmaceutical products. Young and dynamic company whose mission is to enable European customers to follow a natural and healthy lifestyle. Products contain natural ingredients that are clinically tested and supported by international medical publications.
• ABIGO MedicalminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSwedish pharmaceutical company established in 1989 by brothers Jan G Smith and Leif Smith. Owns, develops, produces, and sells drugs and medical products. Primary focus on advanced wound care and ENT. Has active R&D program leading to international patents. Products include Sorbact (wound management), Otovent/Moniri Otovent (ear pressure balancing), and Otinova (ear spray). Distribution in approximately 60 countries.
• EmergoPharmminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPharmaceutical company established in 2009, providing research, development, and procurement of medical products, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. Works with multinational companies providing products and services. Team consists of experienced managers in Product & Business Development and Marketing & Pharmaceutical Production.
• VedaLabminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPrivate French company dedicated to development, production, and marketing of in vitro immunodiagnostic rapid tests. As a market leader, VedaLab focuses on international expansion through long-term partnerships with reliable distributors worldwide. Currently the largest manufacturer of rapid tests in Europe with a constantly expanding product range. Products include PYLORI-Check, CRP-Screen, MENO-Check, and THYRO-Check home diagnostic tests.
• Labo CospropharminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSwiss company with an established brand portfolio of impressive beauty and hair treatments sold worldwide. All Labo Cosprophar products are rigorously tested and meet safety standards.

Scale indicators8 records

Recent moves11 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Regional players

• Krka: Slovenian pharmaceutical manufacturer with strong CEE, Russia/CIS, and Western European distribution presence. Comparable as a regional pharma manufacturer-distributor, though Krka's own-brand portfolio is much larger and more vertically integrated than Salveo's distribution-led model.
• Sopharma: Bulgarian pharmaceutical manufacturer and distributor with strong CEE presence, particularly in Bulgaria, Russia, and other CIS markets. Comparable as a CEE-headquartered pharma manufacturer-distributor hybrid operating across overlapping geographies.

Direct peers

• STADA Arzneimittel: European-focused generic and OTC pharmaceutical company with strong CEE footprint. Directly comparable as an OTC-led multi-market European pharma business serving pharmacies and consumers, with overlapping product categories (cough/cold, pain, dermatology).
• Alliance Healthcare (Walgreens Boots Alliance): European pharmaceutical wholesaler and pre-wholesaler owned by Walgreens Boots Alliance, distributing branded and generic pharmaceuticals to pharmacies across multiple European markets. Directly comparable wholesale-distribution model with overlapping customer base.
• PHOENIX Group: One of Europe's largest pharmaceutical wholesale distributors with deep CEE presence across more than 27 countries. Directly comparable as a wholesale-distribution-led business serving pharmacies with branded OTC and Rx products, operating at significantly larger scale than Salveo.

Broad incumbents

• Bayer Consumer Health: Global OTC consumer health business (Aspirin, Bepanthen, Claritin) with extensive CEE distribution. Comparable as a brand owner that partners with regional distributors like Salveo, occupying the upstream side of the same value chain.
• Celesio (McKesson Europe): Global pharmaceutical distribution and pharmacy retail business (Lloyds Pharmacy, GEHE Pharma Handel) with significant European footprint. Comparable as a wholesale + retail + services platform serving pharmacies, overlapping with Salveo's distribution-led model.
• Procter & Gamble Health: Global OTC and consumer health company (Vicks, Pepto-Bismol, Metamucil) with European and CEE distribution. Comparable as a brand owner supplying the same pharmacy channel Salveo serves, and as a competitor for shelf space in respiratory and digestive categories.

Emerging players

• Aboca: Italian pharmaceutical company specializing in natural/plant-based OTC products distributed across European markets. Comparable as a smaller-scale European OTC player with an overlapping natural-medicine positioning (Prospan, Isla, Sedistress are all herbal-led).
• Richmond Pharmaceuticals: Smaller European OTC pharmaceutical company with Eastern European presence, distributing branded OTC products to pharmacies. Comparable as a mid-sized European OTC distributor with overlapping product mix (respiratory, women's health, dermatology).

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/salveo-cee

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles11 records

Subsidiaries2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Salveo