Covid-19 and Brexit have been the final straw for some small independent pharmacies. More than 155 pharmacies have closed their doors in 2020.
In the last few weeks there have been more announcements about reduced opening hours and pending closures. The underfunding pressure on pharmacies has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. The additional cost to deliver the pharmacy service in a pandemic has been too much for many small independent Pharmacies. Online shopping has hit the high streets and retail sector hard tipping many of the small pharmacies over the edge.
Flu Vaccines: The flu vaccine service available at many pharmacies has helped these small businesses, but as with every year, the vaccines are now out of stock.
The retail pharmacy sector is struggling in a time when essential workers are needed more than ever, even though the workforce is protected. In the near future there will be local areas without pharmacy services. Vulnerable people who cannot drive or access technology to order online will not be able to get their pharmaceuticals easily.