The language is suitably vague… “enhance patient experience and deliver unparalleled service”. , “optimise operations”… i presume it will all come out in the wash. The question is will the TGA want to dig more deeply into what they are doing and how they are doing and then want to tighten the screw? All very cat and mouse
Pharmacy Daily – Australia reports…
The partnership will see Leafio provide advanced technologies, expertise and support to IPA dispensaries, helping them optimise operations, enhance patient experience and deliver unparalleled service.
It will also allow IPA pharmacists access to exclusive Leafio discounts.
IPA General Manager Merchandise, Darragh O Se, said he is excited for IPA members to embrace the Leafio platform and experience the benefits firsthand.
“As Australia’s largest independent pharmacy network, we are here to face challenges with our members and provide their businesses with the flexibility they need to succeed,” he said.
“The medicinal cannabis category is evolving quickly and we are extremely happy to work with Leafio to provide a solution in this space.
“Via the Leafio platform, we will be equipping our members with the tools to become trusted, go-to medical cannabis providers in their local communities.”
In welcoming the partnership, Nicole Le Maistre, Leafio General Manager, highlighted the benefit of the move to the 1,000-plus pharmacies that sit within the IPA network.
“Leafio makes it easier for pharmacies to provide in-demand medications to an increasing cohort of Australian patients,” she said.
“These partnerships are essential for ensuring pharmacies and the patients they serve have a reliable supply of these therapeutics.”
Here’s Some IPA background.
They’ve been around for less than a year and it looks as though they’ve moved pretty quickly to seal this deal with Lefio/ Montu or visa versa.
IPA launches to champion independent pharmacy owners
At the APP2024 Conference yesterday, Steve Kastrinakis, Managing Director, and highly regarded founding Pharmacist, announced the formation of Independent Pharmacies Group of Australia (IPA). IPA is a new chapter for The Platform Alliance Group, a previous merger between several longstanding independent pharmacy groups – Advantage Pharmacy, Pharmacy Catalyst, and Pharmacy Alliance.
IPA aims to provide comprehensive support tailored to the unique needs of independent pharmacies operating across Australia. With nearly 1,200 member pharmacies, the group leverages its scale to invest in innovative programs, services, and technology that provide their members with an integrated and unique approach to drive better patient outcomes and sustainable business growth.
“Our name change reflects our DNA and who we are. We understand that no two pharmacies are the same. We are here to support your independence,” stated Kastrinakis in his speech. “IPA is the product of pharmacy groups founded by pharmacists, for pharmacists, over 20 years ago, and we remain dedicated to [their] success as independent operators.”
Key benefits of the new brand for independent pharmacists include:
● Flexibility to operate branded or fully independent pharmacy models
● Group buying power for improved margins and market-leading deals
● Marketing expertise to drive consumer engagement and loyalty
● Implementation support for professional services and revenue streams
● Business intelligence tools including procurement analytics and loyalty insights
“Our goal is to simplify running independent pharmacies so our members can focus on delivering outstanding service to their patients,” added Kastrinakis. “Whether you want to be part of our national brands or operate an independent model, we have support levels that meet the needs of you and your local community.”
IPA launched at this year’s APP conference, inviting attendees to visit their stand to learn how the group can help independent pharmacy owners maintain their independence while charting a successful future.
https://retailpharmacymagazine.com.au/ipa-launches-to-champion-independent-pharmacy-owners/
Independent Pharmacies Australia (IPA) Announces Key Merchandise Leadership Appointment and Team Changes
Aug 15, 2024
Independent Pharmacies Australia (IPA) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new General Manager of Merchandise, Darragh O’Se, effective Monday, 2 September 2024.
Darragh joins the IPA team bringing a wealth of experience in merchandise management, having held senior roles at Woolworths Group and Blooms the Chemist, with significant expertise from Smyth’s Toys Superstores in the UK, Central Europe, and Amazon Australia. Darragh has a strong track record of using insights to develop impactful category strategies and has consistently delivered exceptional results. Additionally, as an active Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply member, Darragh exemplifies his commitment to professional excellence and industry knowledge.
“I am thrilled to be joining IPA during the exciting growth phase,” said Darragh. “I am dedicated to delivering exceptional value to IPA members and growing supplier brands to create a positive impact in Australian communities. I’m also very excited to work with the IPA team to achieve our collective goals.” Darragh will lead a team of 32 category, procurement and logistics specialists in a newly structured IPA Merchandise team.
Lynne Gallucci, who joined IPA as Chief Operating Officer in March 2024 said “The Merchandise restructure responds to member and supplier partner feedback to focus on areas that have been jointly identified for a successful business partnership. Our focus is to unify independent pharmacies to deliver scale, simplify the way we do business and our pharmacies’ operations, and amplify the great products, services and programs that our pharmacies provide to their communities.”
In addition to this pivotal appointment, IPA is confirming several team changes within the Merchandise team to enhance operational efficiency and support its strategic initiatives:
- Natasha Beck – Head of Buying
- Suzi Ebeyer – Head of Merchandise Services
- Matt Marsh – Head of Merchandise Operations
Steven Kastrinakis, IPA Managing Director, said, “I am excited to welcome to Darragh to the team and am confident that with his leadership of the Merchandise team, IPA will bring continued success and growth for our 1100 members across Australia and our valued supplier partners.” The IPA Merchandise team changes will strengthen support for IPA members by providing strategic category plans including ranging, pricing, and promotions, in a fast-evolving pharmacy industry.
