In-Depth Business Model of Philips – Complete Investigation

Updated on: Feb 7, 2024
business model of philips

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Founded in the year 1891, by Gerard Philips. Philips is a multinational company, headquartered in Amsterdam. It’s one of the world’s largest electronic companies that is currently engaged in the area of lighting and healthcare. 

Philips is a technology company that focuses on improving health and enabling better outcomes from living healthy and home care products. It has over 100 production facilities that are spread across 100 countries which delivers solutions across home care and health care consumers. 

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About Philips 

philips logo

Koninklijke Philips N.V., commonly known as Philips, is a conglomerate corporation based in the Netherlands. It was established in 1891 by Gerard Philips and his father Frederik in Eindhoven, with their initial product being light bulbs.

The global headquarters of Philips has been located in Amsterdam since 1997, while the Benelux headquarters remain in Eindhoven. Philips, which was once among the world’s largest electronics companies, has now pivoted its attention to health technology, having sold off its other sectors.

The company is divided into three primary divisions: Personal Health, Connected Care, and Diagnosis & Treatment. With a workforce of approximately 80,000 people spread across 100 countries, Philips reported a revenue of €17.83 billion in 2022.

The company utilizes cutting-edge technology and in-depth clinical and consumer insights to provide comprehensive solutions, positioning it as a leader in diagnostic imaging, image-guided therapy, patient monitoring, health informatics, consumer health, and home care.

Philips is committed to enhancing people’s health and well-being through significant innovation.

Business Model of Philips

The business model of Philips, a Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, is unique and is known as the Philips Business System (PBS). This model is designed to help the company achieve its objectives. Let’s delve into five crucial aspects of the business model of Philips:

1. Strategy

The strategy employed by Philips, a renowned Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, is a cornerstone of its business model.

This strategy is meticulously designed to carve out a sustainable path that leads to the creation of substantial value for its customers and shareholders. It’s not just about short-term gains; instead, it emphasizes long-term sustainability.

By focusing on creating value, Philips ensures that its customers receive top-notch products and services, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Simultaneously, this approach also ensures that the shareholders’ interests are taken care of, leading to a win-win situation for all stakeholders involved in the business model of Philips.

2. Governance 

In the business model of Philips, a well-known Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, governance plays a pivotal role.

The company has established clear governance structures, defining roles and responsibilities with precision. This clarity empowers individuals within the organization to collaborate effectively and take swift action when necessary.

By fostering a culture of collaboration, Philips ensures that ideas and information flow freely within the organization, leading to faster decision-making and implementation.

Furthermore, the clear delineation of roles and responsibilities ensures accountability, thereby driving performance and efficiency. This aspect of the business model of Philips is instrumental in its ability to respond quickly to market changes and customer needs.

3. Processes

In the business model of Philips, a globally recognized Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, the implementation of standard processes, systems, and practices is a key element.

These standardized procedures are designed to foster a lean and agile work environment. By adopting such an approach, Philips ensures that its operations are streamlined and efficient, eliminating unnecessary steps and reducing waste.

This lean methodology not only enhances productivity but also allows the company to respond swiftly to changes in the market or customer demands. Moreover, the agile aspect of their work culture promotes flexibility and adaptability, enabling Philips to innovate and evolve continuously.

This strategic use of standard processes, systems, and practices in the business model of Philips significantly contributes to its competitive edge in the global market.

4. People-Centric Approach

At the heart of the business model of Philips, a renowned Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, lies a people-centric approach. This approach underscores the company’s commitment to valuing and nurturing its people and teams, recognizing their efforts with rewards for sustainable results.

By prioritizing the needs of people, Philips ensures a robust brand and product experience that resonates with its customers. This people-first strategy extends beyond its employees to its customers, placing their needs at the forefront of all decision-making processes.

This approach not only fosters a positive work environment that encourages growth and development but also ensures that the products and services offered by Philips meet the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.

The people-centric approach in the business model of Philips is a testament to its commitment to its people and its customers.

5. Performance Management 

Performance management is a critical component of the business model of Philips, a leading Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation.

The company employs a disciplined approach to performance management, coupled with a commitment to continuous improvement. This approach enables Philips to consistently achieve its strategic objectives.

By setting clear performance metrics and regularly reviewing progress against these metrics, Philips ensures that all its operations align with its overarching goals.

Furthermore, the emphasis on continuous improvement fosters a culture of innovation and adaptability, enabling Philips to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. This disciplined performance management and continuous improvement strategy in the business model of Philips is instrumental in driving its success and growth.

The business model of Philips has evolved to cater to the needs of today’s consumers. The company now offers a variety of subscription models, making its products and services more accessible, affordable, convenient, and sustainable.

Furthermore, the business model of Philips is geared towards promoting a circular economy.

By 2025, the company aims to align all its products and services with its EcoDesign requirements and expects 25% of its revenue to be generated from circular products and solutions. This business model not only enhances the speed and agility of Philips but also improves standardization, quality, and productivity.

Moreover, it ensures a superior and more consistent experience for its customers.

How Does Philips Make Money?

Philips, a Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, has a diverse revenue stream that contributes to its financial success. Here are five key ways Philips makes money:

1. Healthcare 

philips healthcare logo

The healthcare segment is a substantial contributor to the revenue of Philips, a globally recognized Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation. This segment encompasses the creation and distribution of medical imaging equipment, a field in which Philips has established a strong presence.

The company’s innovative medical imaging devices, which include a range of technologies from X-ray to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, are used by healthcare providers worldwide.

These high-quality, cutting-edge products not only enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery but also drive significant revenue for Philips. The company’s commitment to improving healthcare through advanced technology is reflected in its robust revenue generation from this segment.

2. Consumer Lifestyle

philips consumer product

Philips, a prominent Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, garners a significant portion of its revenue from its Consumer Lifestyle segment. This segment is dedicated to the creation and distribution of consumer electronic products.

Philips’ portfolio in this area is diverse, encompassing a wide range of products designed to enhance the lifestyle of consumers.

From personal care appliances to home entertainment systems, Philips’ consumer electronic products are recognized for their quality and innovation. These products not only meet the evolving needs of consumers but also contribute significantly to the company’s revenue.

The success of Philips in this segment underscores its commitment to understanding and catering to consumer needs, thereby driving its financial success.

3. Lighting 

Philips lighting

Philips, a well-known Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, held the distinction of being the world’s largest manufacturer of lighting solutions, as evidenced by its substantial revenues.

The company’s lighting division was renowned for its innovative and high-quality products, ranging from simple light bulbs to complex industrial lighting systems.

Philips’ lighting products illuminated homes, offices, and public spaces around the globe, enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals. The significant revenues generated from this segment underscored the company’s dominance in the global lighting market.

Although Philips has since diversified its portfolio, its legacy in the lighting industry remains a testament to its commitment to innovation and quality.

4. Subscription Models 

In line with the evolving needs of consumers, Philips, a leading Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, has introduced various subscription models as part of its business strategy.

These models are designed to offer consumers more flexibility, affordability, convenience, and sustainability in accessing Philips’ products and services.

By adopting this approach, Philips ensures that its offerings are not only accessible to a wider audience but also cater to their diverse needs and preferences. This strategy not only enhances customer satisfaction but also contributes to the company’s revenue stream.

The introduction of subscription models in the business model of Philips is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centricity.

5. Circular Economy 

Philips, a distinguished Dutch multinational conglomerate corporation, is dedicated to promoting a circular economy as part of its business model. The company has set ambitious goals to align all its products and services with its EcoDesign requirements by 2025.

This commitment to sustainability is not just about environmental responsibility; it’s also a strategic business move.

Philips anticipates that by 2025, circular products and solutions will contribute to 25% of its revenue. This approach not only demonstrates Philips’ commitment to sustainable practices but also positions the company as a leader in the transition towards a more circular economy.

The incorporation of the circular economy principles into the business model of Philips is a reflection of the company’s innovative approach to business and its commitment to sustainability.

These diverse revenue streams allow Philips to maintain its financial stability and continue its growth in the global market.

Philips Marketing Strategy 

As a prominent multinational conglomerate, Philips has implemented a dynamic marketing strategy that has significantly contributed to its worldwide achievements.

The company’s legacy of pioneering new products, such as the first-ever electric shaver and the inaugural portable CD player, has played a crucial role in its marketing triumphs. Furthermore, Philips has fostered a deep sense of brand loyalty by consistently prioritizing quality and innovation.

By skillfully utilizing content marketing and social media platforms, Philips has been able to effectively engage with its target demographic and establish a personal connection with consumers.

In alignment with contemporary consumer concerns, Philips has intensified its commitment to sustainability in recent years. These strategic initiatives have not only amplified Philips’ brand visibility but also fortified its standing as a dominant entity in the consumer electronics sector.

Key Partners of Philips

Philips, a leading multinational conglomerate corporation, collaborates with a range of partners throughout the process of developing, distributing, and implementing its various solutions and products. Here are some key categories of Philips partners:

1. Suppliers 

Philips, a leading multinational conglomerate corporation, maintains a close relationship with its suppliers as part of its commitment to innovation and meeting customer needs. The company sets high expectations for its suppliers, who are required to deliver top-tier quality, conduct business in a fair and ethical manner, and adhere to the highest ethical standards.

2. Healthcare Providers

Philips, a multinational conglomerate corporation, collaborates with a variety of healthcare providers such as hospitals, primary care facilities, specialist clinics, and physicians. The aim of these partnerships is to provide healthcare devices and solutions that enhance patient care and outcomes.

3. Consumers 

Philips, a renowned multinational conglomerate corporation, designs products tailored to the broad consumer market. In their business model, consumers play a pivotal role, in shaping the development and evolution of their offerings.

4. Public Sector and Government 

Philips, a globally recognized multinational conglomerate corporation, caters to a diverse clientele, including those in the public sector and government. The company provides sustainable lighting networks and systems, enhancing the infrastructure of roads and public spaces.

5. Commercial and Corporate Entities 

Philips, a multinational conglomerate corporation, extends its services to commercial and corporate entities. The company offers lighting systems specifically designed for various commercial spaces such as offices, hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets.

These collaborations are instrumental in Philip’s capacity to bring innovative products and solutions to the marketplace. The partnerships foster a conducive environment for innovation, thereby enhancing Philips’ ability to meet market demands effectively.

Key Activities of Philips

Philips, a leading multinational conglomerate corporation, engages in a variety of key activities as part of its business operations:

  1. Product Development: Philips is engaged in the creation of an extensive array of products, spanning from healthcare equipment and solutions to consumer electronics and lighting systems.
  2. Sales and Marketing: Philips carries out promotional and sales activities to market its products and solutions to its intended audience.
  3. Customer Service: A significant activity for Philips is providing customer service, ensuring that customers receive the necessary support for their products.
  4. Supply Chain Management: Philips oversees a multifaceted supply chain to guarantee the prompt delivery of its products to customers.
  5. Research and Development: Philips allocates substantial resources to research and development in order to innovate and enhance its products.
  6. Sustainability Initiatives: Philips is dedicated to sustainability and implements various strategies to minimize its environmental footprint and foster a circular economy.

With this, we come to the end of the Business Model of Philips. In the below section, we shall conclude this case study.

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Conclusion

The business model of Philips is to provide innovative solutions for health and well-being, leveraging its expertise in electronics, healthcare, and lighting. Philips operates in three main segments: Personal Health, Diagnosis & Treatment, and Connected Care & Health Informatics.

Philips aims to create value for its customers, shareholders, employees, and society by delivering high-quality products and services, pursuing operational excellence, investing in research and development, and engaging in social responsibility.

Philips faces various challenges and opportunities in the dynamic and competitive global market, such as changing customer needs, technological advancements, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance.

Philips strives to adapt to these changes and maintain its competitive edge by focusing on its core competencies, differentiating its offerings, expanding its global presence, and collaborating with partners and stakeholders.

We hope that you took the time to read the case study on the Business Model of Philips and found it informative. Please comment on your proposals. See more of our blogs for more such case studies. In addition, IIDE runs a free Digital Marketing Masterclass Week to examine digital marketing.

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Aditya Shastri

Lead Trainer & Head of Learning & Development at IIDE

Leads the Learning & Development segment at IIDE. He is a Content Marketing Expert and has trained 6000+ students and working professionals on various topics of Digital Marketing. He has been a guest speaker at prominent colleges in India including IIMs......[Read full bio]

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