CCPC to examine retail pharmacy market
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is to carry out a study into how the retail pharmacy market in Ireland is working.
The watchdog describes the sector as “a large and significant market”, with over two million consumers visiting pharmacies on a weekly basis.
It says that it has identified areas of the retail market that “merit closer examination”, based on consumer complaints, preliminary research, and market developments.
Competing to win custom
The study will examine the consumer experience when buying products and services from retail pharmacies and will also assess how retail pharmacies compete to win consumers.
The CCPC says that its study will focus on the supply of prescription and over-the-counter products. It may also consider the services pharmacies provide, such as consultations and vaccinations.
The watchdog’s study will make recommendations about ways to improve competition and outcomes for consumers.
Delivering for consumers
“Retail pharmacies play an important role in supplying consumers with essential medicines and services, so it’s vital that the market is working and delivering for consumers,” said commission member Geoffrey Gray.
As part of the study, it is inviting consumers, pharmacy owners, pharmacists, public bodies, regulators, representative groups, and others to share their views and experiences of the market.
The deadline for responses is 9 July.