Everyone has a favorite.

The skyrocketing out-of-pocket costs for medication places a stiff financial burden on consumers. Not surprisingly, high deductibles and exorbitant costs have given rise to the trend of “pharmacy hopping,” in which one consumer fills their prescriptions at multiple pharmacies. How can retail pharmacies earn customer loyalty? According to a study conducted by Change Healthcare, the key is to appeal to a patient's emotions.

The veterinary medicine market is booming. 

Pet owners spent an estimated $72 billion on their pets in 2018, $15.5 billion of which was spent on medication for their furry family members.

Retail pharmacies can capture a share of this profitable market by offering veterinary compounding and medicine flavoring.

“It’s safe to say that 65 to 70 percent of the patients [pharmacies] are currently filling scripts for probably have a pet at home,” said Chris Cielewich, Vice President of FLAVORx. “If they’re not getting their prescription from you, then that’s an opportunity to grow your business.”

Sarah Henderson, a Certified Pharmacy Technician who has spent 18 years working in both chain and independent retail pharmacies, believes veterinary medicine is an excellent way for pharmacies to build relationships with their customers.

“I love getting to know the little things about my customers, such as their birthdays or the names of their children or grandchildren,” said Mrs. Henderson. “I even know their pets’ names because they’ve become regulars!”

World Autism Awareness Day is an international event that aims to increase understanding and acceptance, as well as foster worldwide support for people living with Autism. FLAVORx is proud to support the goals of this important day.

1. From helping to care for her grandmother, to becoming a pharmacist and owning her own pharmacy, Dr. Lisa Faast brings her well-rounded perspective to propel pharmacies in her current role as the Vice President of Business Development and New Services at Pharmacy Development Services. Through creative strategies, she helps pharmacies develop businesses that thrive while continuing to provide excellent patient care. Learn more in her interview: