By Dave Wendland for Drug Store News August 14, 2017 Last night was an especially clear summer night in Wisconsin. As my little sister was zipping along in her newly-acquired convertible, a canvas of brilliantly-shining stars opened up overhead. It was at that moment I wondered if outstanding customer service levels at retail could … Read More

  Written by and published in Elements magazine, June 15, 2017 You can’t easily measure the effects of human interaction, so it’s easy to overlook it as a way to boost revenue. Too much time socializing may even be viewed by some as a detriment to the bottom line. From a numbers perspective, meaningful interaction with patients … Read More

  Written by and published in Elements magazine, March 15, 2017 When your pharmacy forms partnerships, you probably look to physicians or local community centers. But other—more unusual—partnership opportunities exist in your community that could benefit your pharmacy and your patients. “I think if pharmacists looked around their community, they would see a tremendous amount of … Read More

  Written by and published in Elements magazine, December 15, 2016 Keeping up with the competition is likely a top priority for your independent community pharmacy. And, while it may seem impossible to beat competitors’ retail prices, it’s not always about having the lowest price. “Sometimes stores get wrapped up thinking they need to match Wal-Mart, … Read More

  By Dave Wendland for Drug Store News November 28, 2016 If you recall from my most recent blog post, I’m writing about honoring one my father’s favorite pastimes – dreaming up ideas that haven’t been thought of yet. Focusing on retail pharmacy, I’m happy to share another of my mind meanderings. There is no disagreement … Read More

  Written by and published in Elements magazine, September 15, 2016 When patients are discharged from the hospital, they must transition to caring for themselves in a home setting, which can be difficult. It’s well known that independent community pharmacies can help these patients with their prescription needs, but if your pharmacy only focuses on … Read More

  Written by and published in Elements magazine, March 14, 2016 As the health care landscape changes, pharmacists have to adapt and grow. That starts with thinking differently. “People change. So must pharmacy,” said Dave Wendland, vice president and member of the owners group at Hamacher Resource Group, a leading partner in category management, business strategy … Read More

  Written by and published in Elements magazine, September 24, 2015 Skin care is often thought of as a category that revolves around beauty, but it can be a complement to your pharmacy’s service offerings, too. A skin care section in your front end can function as a companion to your pharmacy’s care services, as … Read More