Starting a healthcare business can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, especially when you venture into a pharmacy franchise in the Philippines.
This article will guide you through six promising pharmacy franchise opportunities that could bring you steady profits and help you serve your community.
Are you ready to discover these options and find the right pharmacy business for your entrepreneurial journey?
Please note that the list is not written in any particular order.
1. Generika Drugstore
Generika Drugstore was established in 2003 and has since grown to over 760 stores nationwide. It aims to provide affordable and quality generic medicines na pang-masa.
With high visibility and foot traffic locations, a Generika franchise targets socio-economic classes C and below.
You need one pharmacist and two to three pharmacy assistants (at least two based on my interviews), depending on the store's size. Training is provided for you and your staff by the Generika team.
2. The Generics Pharmacy
The Generics Pharmacy (TGP) offers affordable and quality medicines. It started as the Pacific Insular Co. in 1949 and evolved under the Liuson family in 1959.
On a side note, Generika and TGP are direct competitors, so you’ll see these branches close to each other.
In 2001, TGP ventured into retail, making medicines accessible to everyday Filipinos. Today, it is arguably the top pharmacy franchise in the country.
Joining the TGP family can be a stable investment. Take a look at its franchise packages to see if it’s right for you.
Ready to make a move? Check out their franchise details for more information!
3. Gamot Publiko
Gamot Publiko is an affordable pharmacy franchise in the Philippines. Known for its yellow logo, it focuses on providing quality generic medicines to Filipinos.
Franchising with Gamot Publiko is accessible. The total investment is between Php 627,000 to 700,000. Many locations already exist across the country, from Metro Manila to places like Davao and Cebu.
There are no royalty fees on non-pharmaceutical products, making it even more enticing for potential franchisees. They also offer a free POS system and delivery without a minimum amount.
Editor’s note: As someone who frequently travels between Manila and Laguna, I have not seen a Gamot Publiko branch, but that’s par for the course given that it only has 40 branches nationwide. The low franchise fee does make this pharmacy a tempting choice for first-time franchisees.
4. Rika Drugstore
Rika Drugstore started in 1987 and has since become a well-known pharmacy in Cagayan de Oro City.
It currently has six branches within the city and additional branches in Alubijid and Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental. The brand is committed to providing quality and affordable medical supplies.
Here are the details if you're interested in franchising Rika Drugstore:
Just a heads up though - if you’re not based in CDO, Rika may not be an available pharmacy franchise for you.
5. ValueMed
ValueMed Generics Pharmacy offers an affordable and profitable drugstore franchising opportunity.
They pride themselves on offering generic medicines that are both affordable and high-quality. This appeals to a broad range of customers, ensuring steady business day in and day out.
If you’re looking to start a pharmacy business with strong support, this could be a great option.
The investment ranges are friendly, making it accessible for new entrepreneurs or those with lower budgets. Plus, their support system is really hands-on. You won’t be left hanging!
6. Farmacia Ni Dok
Farmacia Ni Dok is one of the better-known pharmacy franchises in the Philippines (I will personally put it as the 3rd best pharmacy franchise, below TGP and Generika).
Farmacia Ni Dok offers a variety of generics, branded, and natural medicines, along with personal care products.
The franchise prides itself with friendly and trustworthy customer service, making it popular among local communities.
The investment for a Farmacia Ni Dok franchise includes the complete setup of a POS system, training, uniform, and promotional giveaways.
Endorsed by Ai-ai De las Alas, this franchise is steadily gaining significant attention and trust.
Pros and cons of starting a pharmacy franchise
Starting a pharmacy franchise in the Philippines has its ups and downs and going this route depends on your risk appetite and how you weigh each advantage and disadvantage.
Here’s a quick rundown:
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
We recommend reading our SWOT analysis of pharmacy businesses in the Philippines more more context.
Pro tip: be on the lookout for pharmacy franchise business owners who are looking to sell for various reasons (e.g. bad inventory management, lack of marketing direction, etc.) They might offer their business at a lower price than starting a new franchise from scratch.
A pharmacy franchise in the Philippines can be your ticket to business growth and success
Starting a pharmacy franchise in the Philippines can be a great opportunity for both experienced and new entrepreneurs. With several good options available, picking the right one for you is the key.
