Resources for Independent Pharmacies

Posted by Jen Johnston

Some businesses just belong together. When I was in my 20’s and more into the craft scene, I envisioned a group of retailers who would take over a space and create a destination location of independent shop owners that met virtually every need a crafter would have. So from sewing, to beading, to scrapbooking, etc., you would find specialty independent retailers in this center, along with a shared classroom space that could be partitioned off into smaller classrooms, complete with a kitchen area for all day events. Also connected would be a bookstore focused on crafts, a coffee shop, and outdoor spaces where people could gather. There was a lot more to it, but you get the general idea.

Yes, I was a big dreamer. Some would say the mega chains like JoAnn Fabric, Michaels, or Hobby Lobby already fill this need. I say they may sell the products – but the NEED goes far beyond that to the experience of a shared community. It’s the thing that people search for online via social networks – only they want it in real life, too.

Read more

Posted by Dave Wendland

Although difficult to predict given the rollout issues and ongoing debate around the Affordable Care Act (ACA), there are emerging opportunities afforded community pharmacy. In this post I will share four areas worth examination: 1) accessibility; 2) education; 3) coaching; and 4) medication compliance.

Read more

0by Jenny Kosek

Two-thirds of U.S. pharmacists have completed the 20 hour pharmacy-based immunization training offered by the American Pharmacist’s Association. Have you?

All 50 states allow pharmacists who have completed this training to offer immunizations in their stores, positioning those pharmacies to attract consumers who seek convenient immunizations without the need to schedule doctor’s visits. Large chains have capitalized on this opportunity during flu season by not only offering walk-in immunization clinics, but by tying immunizations to retail promotions. For instance, consumers who get their flu shots at Safeway locations this year will also receive a coupon for 10% off their basket ring at their next shopping trip. United Supermarkets offers $5 off a grocery purchase to anyone who gets immunized during the month of September.

You can offer similar incentives to attract shoppers to your store for vaccines, but if no one on your staff is certified to administer those vaccines, there are still opportunities for you to increase incremental sales during flu season. As convenient as it has become to receive flu vaccinations, only 46% of Americans choose to do so. That means a lot of consumers and their loved ones will contract the flu this year, and your pharmacy can be the destination they seek to speed up recoveries.

Read more

by Jenny Kosek

Dollar stores are positioned either in areas underserved by supermarkets or drug stores, or in strip malls next to big box retailers to lure consumers to a faster, easier shopping experience. Where is your store? Chances are you’re in a small downtown or perhaps well away from busy retail areas in your community. So how can you make sure customers know where to find you to enjoy the convenience, competitive cost, and incredible customer service you pharmacy offers?

You’ve got to market to them.

Read more

by Megan Moyer

Creativity is an essential tool in planning for growth. While changing up your product assortment can lead to an increase in sales, and creating partnerships with local businesses can as well, you can also increase awareness and drive more business by creating an online presence.

Think of how much more inventory you could “carry” with an online store. While you naturally will feature products that you stock in your store on your website, you can also include items you may not have the physical room for, but can order next-day from your wholesaler.

Read more