It can’t be easy sitting across from Donald Trump in the board room, but it can be educational. In a recent episode of The Apprentice, the board room got pretty heated when contestants started discussing why their team failed a business exercise. While reality show bickering is always entertaining, I find the business lessons even more so. In this case, it’s always interesting to see the process that ultimately leads to someone being fired.
 
In the business world, the board room is where all of the important decisions are made—whether you are selling or buying a business, exploring new markets, taking on new partners, or discussing the fate of your employees. At the end of the day, it’s all about how you come to those decisions.

These types of scenarios are playing out every day in board rooms across the nutrition industry, especially as M&A activity continues to pick up. In this month’s “Word From Wall Street” article, longtime columnist Adam Ismail discusses recent notable transactions in the industry. The good news is M&A activity is up at least 10%, if not more. Even more significant, large “outsiders” such as P&G are approaching the industry with renewed interest. These are all good signs, according to Mr. Ismail, who believes the industry might be headed for a period of consolidation
.
Business is also the focus of this issue’s “From the Corners of the World” column. Authors Paul Altaffer and Grant Washington-Smith took the opportunity to interview Janica Lane, a partner with private equity firm Partnership Capital Growth Advisors (PCGA), about international business trends. Among other things, they discussed the present and future of the health and wellness markets worldwide. Estimated at $1 trillion and counting, Ms. Lane said individuals, corporations and governments can’t afford to ignore this sector given the potential impacts on health and well-being, disease prevention and quality of life. Her advice to companies is to choose markets wisely, and consider the tradeoff between broad presence and deep penetration. (Coincidentally, Ms. Lane is also the author of this month’s cover story.

***
Speaking of important business decisions, I recently took on new responsibilities here at Nutraceuticals World. While I have always cared deeply about the integrity of the content in this magazine, I have always been curious about the business side as well. Adding associate publisher to my title will allow me to explore this aspect, while also keeping an eye on the editorial direction. As part of this transition, we have hired a new associate editor, Lisa Olivo. She comes to Nutraceuticals World with a fresh perspective and a burning desire to learn more about what this industry has to offer. Feel free to share your perspectives with her anytime at [email protected].