Lars Sorensen believes that the number of potential customers for his products will continue to rise due to the increasing global obesity epidemic leading to more people developing type 2 diabetes. However, he is facing challenges in securing good prices for insulin and other diabetes treatments from cost-conscious reimbursement authorities worldwide. Sorensen mentioned that pricing is a concern in Europe and is expected to be challenging in the United States as well due to healthcare reform and concentration in the distribution chain. Despite facing difficulties, Sorensen remains optimistic about the company's long-term growth goals. Novo Nordisk has not given up on its financial targets and aims for double-digit sales growth, although recent setbacks have made the task more challenging. The company is now facing competition from other pharmaceutical companies and is encountering resistance from healthcare insurers and governments on pricing strategies. Novo must find a balance between pricing its products competitively while maintaining its reputation for innovative medicines. The climate is changing for Novo, as they have lost a major US managed care contract with Express Scripts to cheaper competition for Victoza. In Europe, austerity measures are making it difficult for Novo to sell their new drugs at a premium price. Sorensen believes it is important to price innovation higher in order to fund future innovation, and he is not willing to compromise on pricing. Despite investor concerns, Novo's stock is still performing well due to the growing number of people with diabetes. Sorensen is hopeful for the future of Novo, with plans for oral insulin and GLP-1 pills in the works. Although there is speculation about a possible deal with Oramed Pharmaceuticals, Sorensen has doubts about their approach. Personally, Sorensen shows no signs of slowing down, as he recently extended his retirement age. He rides his bike to work frequently and enjoys cross-country skiing, getting ready to participate in the 90-km Vasa race in Sweden this winter. Lars Sorensen, CEO of Novo Nordisk, believes there are strong internal candidates to replace him when he steps down, saying they are currently focusing on succession planning.