Page 7 - P4403.59-V45_Numark Magazine November 23.

The pharmacy landscape in England is efficiencies while simultaneously providing
experiencing a significant transformation in new patient services. This presents a
market dynamics, shaping the ownership and substantial challenge to both independent
operational aspects of the sector. Recent pharmacies and large multiples, especially in
data highlighted in a C+D article shed light on the absence of robust back office support
the notable shifts that have taken place in the to translate these demands into operational
pharmacy ownership dynamics, particularly reality.
in the context of NHS England (NHSE) data In light of these challenges, Numark stands
from September. as a supportive partner for pharmacies

According to the data, the ownership of navigating this evolving landscape. We offer
pharmacies has witnessed a considerable a wide range of services, including insurance,
change, with small chains, comprising one staff training, SOPs, procurement strategies,
to five pharmacies, now operating more and innovative commercial development
pharmacies (4,612) compared to the large opportunities, spanning from traditional to
multiples, which are defined as groups with digital realms. As one of the UK’s largest
100 or more pharmacies, owning 3,978 membership organisations, Numark aims to
pharmacies. Medium chains, falling between assist pharmacy owners in capitalising on
six to 99 pharmacies, own 1,790 stores. emerging business opportunities, drive profit
A crucial observation is the overall decrease potential, realise operational efficiencies and
in the total number of community pharmacies help deliver exceptional standards of care to
in England, experiencing a 4% decline, which patients.
equates to 457 pharmacies, between January Numark is more than just a membership
2021 and August 2023. The decline has organisation—we are a partnership with
been most notable in 2023, with significant extensive depth and breadth across the
closures. Within this decline, large multiples entire pharmacy sector. We actively engage
have experienced a substantial 24% decrease in lobbying efforts on behalf of members
in owned pharmacies (driven predominantly and facilitate the sharing of best practices,
by the Lloyds divestment), whereas small recognising the varying dynamics across
and medium chains have seen increases of different regions in the UK.
15% and 12%, respectively. This decline in the The evolving market dynamics in the
community pharmacy sector is not uniform pharmacy sector require proactive
across different business types, illustrating adaptation and strategic partnerships.
varied trends and challenges.
Numark, with its comprehensive support and
One of the notable aspects shaping the forward-thinking approach, stands at the
market dynamics is the increasing acquisition forefront, ready to assist pharmacy owners
activity in the sector, primarily driven by in navigating this transformative landscape
independent and small group expansions. This and exploring new horizons in the evolving
trend is anticipated to continue into 2024, sector.
with a particular focus on smaller to medium- Reach out to Numark to explore the
sized pharmacies dispensing up to 10,000 opportunities and support it can provide
items. These opportunities appear to be to help you thrive in this ever changing
especially appealing to first-time buyers and pharmacy landscape. Together, we can shape
existing pharmacy owners seeking to expand a brighter future for the pharmacy sector…
services.
sector to deliver cost-cutting dispensing TOGETHER
Amidst this evolving landscape, the English
government is expecting the pharmacy

WE’RE

STRONGER

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