Following Roland’s Cosmetic Clinic Closure… Director Mikihiko Takasu Criticizes the Rise of Certain Cosmetic Clinics as “Ignoramus Business” – Sirabee

While the news of Roland's cosmetic clinic closure might initially seem like a mere business decision by an individual proprietor, it highlights a dual challenge: the difficulty of business succession in the medical industry, particularly in the field of cosmetic medicine, and the underlying concern about the proliferation of "ignoramus businesses."

The "ignoramus business" pointed out by Director Mikihiko Takasu likely refers to clinics that exploit informationally disadvantaged individuals by recommending unnecessary procedures or high-priced contracts. Such clinics tend to lack a sustainable business foundation and focus solely on short-term profit gains. Consequently, they face the risk of management collapse and sudden closure, as seen in Roland's case. This attitude may also be shared by medical institution managers who opt for an easy closure without considering business succession due to a lack of successors.

In the context of medical M&A and business succession, this news serves as a reminder of the opportunity cost associated with choosing closure and the importance of sound succession planning. Closure entails ceasing services to patients, job losses for staff, and potentially costs such as restoration expenses. Conversely, appropriate third-party succession holds the potential to carry over the brand and expertise, continue contributing to regional healthcare, and maintain staff employment.

For owners and successors of cosmetic medicine clinics facing succession issues, it is crucial to self-reflect on whether their own clinic risks falling into the "ignoramus business" model and whether they are concretely considering business succession options in preparation for unforeseen circumstances. To ensure sustainable management and fulfill responsibilities to patients, early consultation regarding business succession should be considered before resorting to closure as a final option.