The Importance of Setting Your Independent Pharmacy Apart

Why would a patient choose your small pharmacy over the competition? With big pharmacy chains dominating the market, small independent pharmacies need to carve out a local niche for themselves. Here are several important ways that patients can benefit from these local pharmacies and why their owners should capitalize on these aspects.

Personalised, Friendly Service

In large pharmacy chains, it is rare to receive highly personalized, friendly service. These establishments often have a generic atmosphere, providing a good opportunity for small pharmacies to get ahead. Simple gestures, like remembering a patient’s name or sending a ‘get well soon’ card, can create memorable service. This approach fosters a loyal customer base that will return many times, helping to sustain your business.

Lengthier Hours

As an independent store, you can decide your operating hours. Coordinate your hours with local medical practitioners and consider opening late to accommodate after-hours customers. Ensure you research to confirm that these hours are sustainable concerning associated running costs.

Availability for Questions

Being just a phone call away when your customer needs help makes a significant difference. Staff in busy chains often lack the time to offer personalized service and answer questions. In contrast, smaller independent pharmacies can spend more time on the floor and provide real-time support. This builds rapport with customers, especially those needing extra care, like anxious parents or elderly patients.

Accommodating Special Requests

Large chains typically follow standardized procedures, but local independent pharmacies can be more flexible. Consider accommodating special requests regarding how medication is dispensed. Store these instructions in your patient’s file to ensure they are not overlooked. Consistency in care enhances customer satisfaction and secures long-term support.

Cultural Appropriateness

As a smaller pharmacy, your patient base largely consists of the local demographic. Cater to these patients with bespoke holiday greetings and appropriate gifts. For an elderly community, provide signage and pillboxes with larger lettering. For areas with young families, offer toys, a nurse on call, or coloring facilities while mothers shop. This personalization ensures that visiting your store is a pleasure rather than a chore.

The Bottom Line

While large pharmacy chains are significant competition, smaller local pharmacies can achieve many things that the bigger chains struggle with. Paying careful attention to these small details can ensure your pharmacy not only survives but thrives. For more information on how Merchant Capital can fund your pharmacy’s next growth strategy, contact us today.

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