The over the counter drug retailers industry focuses on selling non-prescription medications directly to consumers. This sector features a mix of large pharmacy chains, local drugstores, and increasingly popular online retailers, catering to daily health needs. With the rise of e-commerce and changing consumer preferences, the industry is gradually shifting towards a more digital presence, making health products more accessible. Additionally, innovations in pricing strategies and personalized service are leading companies to rethink traditional retail approaches. Enhanced competition driven by health-conscious consumers continues shaping this industry, fostering growth and responsiveness to market demands.

In this listing, we feature 21 companies thriving in the over-the-counter drug retail space. These businesses range from established pharmacy giants like Rexall Pharmacy Group Ltd. and Shoppers Drug Mart to emerging players like Newpharma. They vary in size, with employee counts spanning from a few hundred to over 30,000. Each company brings unique offerings, specializing in health and wellness products including medications, personal care items, and beauty products. Most of these retailers are based in Canada, Australia, and different parts of Latin America and Europe, reflecting a global market with varied consumer needs.

Read on to discover more about the top over the counter drug retailers companies.

Top 21 Over The Counter Drug Retailers Companies

1. Rexall Pharmacy Group Ltd.

• Website: rexall.ca
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 99%
• Latest funding: September 2024
• Founded year: 1904
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: rexall

Rexall Pharmacy Group Ltd., founded in 1904, is a prominent retail pharmacy chain based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. The company operates approximately 385 pharmacies nationwide, catering to consumers seeking health solutions. Rexall offers a comprehensive range of health and wellness products, including both prescription and over-the-counter medications. As a private equity-owned entity, Rexall is committed to serving its communities and enhancing customer health through its pharmacy services. The company employs around 4,308 individuals, primarily in Canada, and is a subsidiary of McKesson Corporation, which further solidifies its position in the healthcare industry. Rexall's focus on innovation and customer service reflects its dedication to improving health outcomes for Canadians.

2. Shoppers Drug Mart

• Website: shoppersdrugmart.ca
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 99%
• Latest funding: $11.2B, March 2014
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: shoppers-drug-mart

Shoppers Drug Mart Inc. is a retail pharmacy chain based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, founded in 1962. The company operates over 1,300 stores across Canada, providing a wide array of pharmaceutical products, health and wellness items, and personal care products. Shoppers Drug Mart is dedicated to serving consumers by offering accessible health solutions, including a significant selection of over-the-counter medications. Their extensive product range includes items for cough, cold, flu, and home health care, among others. The company also emphasizes online shopping, allowing customers to conveniently purchase products from home. With a workforce of over 30,000 employees, Shoppers Drug Mart plays a vital role in the Canadian healthcare retail market.

3. Chemist Warehouse

• Website: chemistwarehouse.com.au
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
• Employee distribution: Australia 92%, New Zealand 6%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: $700.0M, December 2023
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: my-chemist-warehouse-group

Chemist Warehouse, founded in 2000 and based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, is a prominent retail pharmacy chain. The company operates numerous stores across Australia and New Zealand, providing a wide array of pharmaceutical goods, health products, and beauty items. Chemist Warehouse is known for its competitive pricing, making health and wellness solutions more accessible to consumers. They offer both in-store and online shopping options, including a convenient click-and-collect service. The company has also received significant funding, with a recent amount of $700 million reported in December 2023, which underscores its growth potential and market relevance. Chemist Warehouse is committed to improving public health through various initiatives, including immunization services, further solidifying its role in the healthcare industry.

4. Farmacias de Similares

• Website: farmaciassimilares.com.mx
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mexico
• Employee distribution: Mexico 86%, Chile 13%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: farmacias-de-similares

Farmacias de Similares is a private pharmacy and online retailer based in Mexico, founded in 1997. The company specializes in offering a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as various health products. With a workforce of approximately 5,562 employees, the company operates numerous physical locations throughout Mexico and has expanded its reach to Chile. Farmacias de Similares aims to provide affordable healthcare solutions, making medications accessible to a broad audience. Their online platform complements their physical stores, allowing customers to purchase health products conveniently. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model focused on serving its customer base effectively.

5. Kronans Apotek

• Website: kronansapotek.se
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Employee distribution: Sweden 100%
• Latest funding: April 2002
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kronans-droghandel

Kronans Apotek, founded in 1907 and based in Stockholm, Sweden, is a prominent pharmacy and healthcare retailer. The company specializes in providing a wide array of prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as health and beauty products. With a workforce of approximately 1,854 employees, Kronans Apotek operates numerous locations throughout Sweden, ensuring that essential health products and services are readily available to consumers. Their website features a comprehensive selection of products, including personal care items and health advice, reflecting their commitment to supporting customer well-being. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without reliance on external financial support.

6. Farmacias Cruz Verde Chile

• Website: cruzverde.cl
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile
• Employee distribution: Chile 89%, Colombia 9%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: farmacias-cruz-verde

Farmacias Cruz Verde Chile, founded in 1984, is a prominent retail pharmacy chain based in Huechuraba, Santiago. The company operates a network of pharmacies throughout Chile, catering to the health and wellness needs of consumers. It offers a comprehensive selection of products, including medications, vitamins, personal care items, and beauty products. Farmacias Cruz Verde emphasizes customer service through both in-store and online shopping options, allowing for convenience and accessibility. The company also engages in various health programs and initiatives, further solidifying its role in the healthcare sector. With a significant employee base and a focus on customer satisfaction, Farmacias Cruz Verde continues to be a relevant player in the pharmacy industry.

7. Pharmasave Canada

• Website: pharmasave.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Langley, British Columbia, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 99%, Other 1%
• Latest funding: November 2023
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: pharmasavedrugs

Pharmasave Canada, founded in 1981 and headquartered in Langley, British Columbia, is a prominent pharmacy and drugstore retailer operating throughout Canada. With a workforce of approximately 1,959 employees, the company focuses on providing essential health solutions to consumers. Pharmasave offers a comprehensive range of products, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, health and beauty items, and vaccination services. Their commitment to customer convenience is evident through their online shopping platform and same-day delivery options. Pharmasave also emphasizes community health by providing resources and support for various health conditions, making it a significant player in the Canadian pharmacy landscape.

8. Apoteket AB

• Website: apoteket.se
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
• Employee distribution: Sweden 100%
• Latest funding: November 2017
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: apoteket-ab

Apoteket AB, founded in 1970 and based in Solna, Stockholm, Sweden, is a prominent pharmacy chain that operates within the pharmaceutical retail sector. With a workforce of approximately 3,275 employees, the company runs around 400 pharmacies across Sweden, catering to the health and wellness needs of the public. Apoteket AB offers a wide array of medications, including over-the-counter products, prescription drugs, and health-related items. The company is dedicated to providing essential health solutions to consumers, ensuring accessibility to necessary medications and health products. As a government-owned entity, Apoteket AB plays a crucial role in the Swedish healthcare system, focusing on the well-being of individuals and communities.

9. Apotek 1

• Website: apotek1.no
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Asker, Akershus, Norway
• Employee distribution: Norway 96%, Indonesia 2%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: apotek1

Apotek 1 is a prominent pharmacy chain based in Asker, Akershus, Norway, founded in 1999. The company operates over 400 locations across the country, employing around 2,340 individuals. Apotek 1 specializes in providing a wide array of pharmaceutical products, including prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. In addition to medications, the company offers personal care items, health advice, and services aimed at enhancing consumer well-being. Apotek 1 is dedicated to ensuring that essential healthcare services are accessible to the Norwegian population, making it a key player in the health sector.

10. Farmacity S.A.

• Website: farmacity.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Lomas Del Mirador, Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Employee distribution: Argentina 96%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: November 2007
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: farmacity-s.a.

Farmacity S.A., founded in 1997 and based in Lomas Del Mirador, Buenos Aires, Argentina, is a retail pharmacy that specializes in health and beauty products. The company offers a comprehensive selection of pharmaceuticals, dermocosmetics, and nutritional supplements, catering to the needs of consumers looking for convenient access to essential health and wellness items. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, Farmacity operates both physical retail locations and an online platform, ensuring that customers can easily find and purchase their desired products. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model since its last funding round in 2007.

11. Raia

• Website: drogaraia.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 1905
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: droga-raia

Raia Drogasil SA, operating under the brand Droga Raia, is a prominent retail pharmacy based in Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Founded in 1905, the company has grown to employ over 10,000 individuals, reflecting its significant presence in the market. Raia specializes in providing a wide range of health, beauty, and personal care products, catering to consumers' needs for medications, wellness items, and beauty products. The company operates through both an online platform and numerous physical locations across Brazil, ensuring accessibility for its customers. Raia also offers various services, including health consultations and a marketplace for third-party products, further solidifying its role in the retail pharmacy sector. The company emphasizes customer engagement through benefits programs and a user-friendly shopping experience, which are critical in today's competitive retail environment.

12. Farmatodo

• Website: farmatodo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Caracas, Capital, Venezuela
• Employee distribution: Venezuela 63%, Colombia 31%, Argentina 4%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1918
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: farmatodo

Farmatodo is a private retail pharmacy chain founded in 1918, headquartered in Caracas, Venezuela. The company operates across Venezuela, Argentina, and Colombia, providing a comprehensive shopping experience through both physical stores and an online platform. Farmatodo offers a wide array of products, including over-the-counter medications, health and wellness items, beauty products, and everyday convenience goods. With a workforce of approximately 5,729 employees, the company plays a significant role in the health and wellness sector, catering to consumers looking for accessible health solutions and personal care products. Its operations are primarily concentrated in Venezuela, where it holds a substantial market share in the pharmacy sector, making it a relevant player in the industry.

13. Drogaria Sao Paulo

• Website: drogariasaopaulo.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: drogaria-sao-paulo

Drogaria Sao Paulo is a private retail pharmacy chain founded in 2011, headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil. With a workforce of approximately 1,348 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the Brazilian pharmacy sector. It operates through a network of physical stores and a robust online platform, catering to consumers seeking accessible health solutions. The product range includes a wide array of medications, health and wellness products, and personal care items, making it a go-to destination for customers looking for over-the-counter drugs and related products. The company emphasizes convenience, offering services such as rapid delivery and in-store pickup, which enhances the shopping experience for its clientele.

14. Boots Apotek

• Website: boots.no
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
• Employee distribution: Norway 96%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: boots-norge-as

Boots Apotek, founded in 2001 and based in Oslo, Norway, operates as a private retail pharmacy. With a workforce of approximately 579 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the Norwegian pharmacy sector. Boots Apotek provides a comprehensive selection of prescription and over-the-counter medications, personal care items, and various health services. They cater to consumers seeking health-related products and professional guidance, operating through both online platforms and physical stores. The company emphasizes convenience with services like express home delivery and quick in-store pickup for online orders. Their commitment to health services includes vaccination programs and specialized health consultations, further solidifying their role in the healthcare industry.

15. Vitusapotek

• Website: vitusapotek.no
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
• Employee distribution: Norway 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: vitusapotek

Vitusapotek, founded in 2001 and based in Oslo, Norway, operates as a private retail pharmacy. With a workforce of over 1,300 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the Norwegian health and wellness market. Vitusapotek offers a wide array of products, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, personal care items, and health supplements. Their services extend beyond traditional pharmacy offerings, featuring online ordering and home delivery options, as well as in-store pickup services. This multi-channel approach caters to the evolving needs of consumers, making healthcare products more accessible. Vitusapotek's commitment to health and wellness is evident in their extensive product categories, which include everything from allergy medications to skincare and dietary supplements.

16. Chemist Warehouse New Zealand

• Website: chemistwarehouse.co.nz
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
• Employee distribution: New Zealand 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: chemist-warehouse-new-zealand

Chemist Warehouse New Zealand, founded in 2017 and based in Auckland, is a retail pharmacy chain that operates both locally and internationally. The company specializes in offering a wide array of pharmaceutical products, health supplements, and personal care items at discounted prices. With a strong emphasis on affordability, Chemist Warehouse serves consumers looking for cost-effective solutions for their health needs. The company provides options for online shopping and convenient delivery services, making it easier for customers to access their products. Chemist Warehouse also engages in price matching, ensuring competitive pricing against other retailers. Their operations are primarily focused in New Zealand, with a small percentage of their workforce located elsewhere. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model.

17. Newpharma

• Website: newpharma.be
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Belgium
• Employee distribution: Belgium 89%, Romania 6%, Other 5%
• Latest funding: December 2017
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: newpharma

Newpharma is a private online pharmacy based in Belgium, founded in 2008. The company operates an e-commerce platform that offers a comprehensive selection of health and wellness products, including over-the-counter medications, cosmetics, and nutritional supplements. With a workforce of approximately 247 employees, Newpharma serves a significant customer base, boasting over 1.6 million satisfied clients. The company emphasizes convenience and accessibility, delivering products across Belgium and neighboring countries. Their extensive catalog features more than 47,000 products from 1,700 brands, ensuring that consumers can find a wide range of items to meet their health needs. Newpharma's focus on OTC medications, along with their commitment to customer service, positions them as a notable player in the online pharmacy sector.

18. LloydsApotek

• Website: lloydsapotek.se
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Latest funding: October 2023
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: lloyds_apotek

LloydsApotek, also known as DOZ Apotek, is a pharmacy and health and wellness retailer based in Stockholm, Sweden. Founded in 2010, the company operates both online and through local pharmacies, catering to consumers seeking accessible health solutions. They offer a wide array of products, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, health supplements, and beauty products. LloydsApotek emphasizes customer service and convenience, providing options for online shopping with free shipping on orders over a certain amount. Their product range covers various health needs, from allergy relief to pain management, making them a relevant player in the health and wellness market.

19. Discount Drug Mart

• Website: discount-drugmart.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Medina, Ohio, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: discount-drug-mart

Discount Drug Mart, Inc. is a retail pharmacy and grocery store chain based in Medina, Ohio, founded in 1969. The company operates 78 stores across more than 20 counties in Ohio, providing a wide array of products and services. Discount Drug Mart combines pharmacy services with grocery offerings, creating a convenient shopping experience for customers. Their stores stock over 40,000 items, including health and beauty products, household goods, and groceries. The company prides itself on low prices and exceptional customer service, filling over 5.3 million prescriptions each year. Additionally, Discount Drug Mart engages in community service and charitable activities, further solidifying its role in the local market. The company has not reported any funding, indicating it operates as a private entity without external financial backing.

20. Farmaline

• Website: farmaline.be
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Venlo, Limburg, Netherlands
• Employee distribution: Belgium 83%, Netherlands 6%, Thailand 6%, Other 6%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: farmaline

Farmaline is a private online pharmacy based in Venlo, Limburg, Netherlands, founded in 2008. The company specializes in providing a comprehensive range of health and wellness products, including pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and beauty items. With a workforce of approximately 104 employees, Farmaline primarily serves consumers in Belgium, where about 83% of its operations are concentrated. The company operates through an e-commerce platform, allowing customers to conveniently order products online and have them delivered to their homes. Farmaline is committed to customer satisfaction and offers various promotions, including discounts and loyalty programs. Their extensive product catalog features over 40,000 items, ensuring that customers can find the health products they need at competitive prices.

21. Help Net Farma

• Website: helpnet.ro
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Romania
• Employee distribution: Romania 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: help-net-farma

Help Net Farma, founded in 1998, is a private pharmacy and healthcare retailer based in Romania. With a workforce of approximately 722 employees, the company has grown to operate 406 pharmacies throughout the country. Help Net specializes in a wide array of pharmaceutical products, including over-the-counter medications, health supplements, cosmetics, and wellness items. They offer both in-store and online shopping options, making it convenient for consumers to access their products. The company also emphasizes customer service, providing consultations and advice on health-related matters. Their commitment to health and wellness is evident in their product offerings and the services they provide in their pharmacies, including homeopathic solutions. Help Net Farma has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without external financial backing.

Over The Counter Drug Retailers Insights: Key Companies

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Rexall Pharmacy Group Ltd.	Mississauga, Ontario, Canada	5001-10000	1904	Private Equity
Shoppers Drug Mart	Toronto, Ontario, Canada	1001-5000	1962	Corporate
Chemist Warehouse	Melbourne, Victoria, Australia	10001+	2000	Corporate
Farmacias de Similares	Mexico	5001-10000	1997	Private
Kronans Apotek	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1907	Corporate
Farmacias Cruz Verde Chile	Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile	5001-10000	1984	Private
Pharmasave Canada	Langley, British Columbia, Canada	5001-10000	1981	Corporate
Apoteket AB	Solna, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1970	Corporate
Apotek 1	Asker, Akershus, Norway	1001-5000	1999	Private
Farmacity S.A.	Lomas Del Mirador, Buenos Aires, Argentina	5001-10000	1997	Private Equity
Raia	Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil	1001-5000	1905	Private
Farmatodo	Caracas, Capital, Venezuela	5001-10000	1918	Private
Drogaria Sao Paulo	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	5001-10000	2011	Private
Boots Apotek	Oslo, Oslo, Norway	1001-5000	2001	Private
Vitusapotek	Oslo, Oslo, Norway	1001-5000	2001	Private
Chemist Warehouse New Zealand	Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand	1001-5000	2017	Private
Newpharma	Belgium	201-500	2008	Private
LloydsApotek	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	501-1000	2010	Corporate
Discount Drug Mart	Medina, Ohio, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1969	Private
Farmaline	Venlo, Limburg, Netherlands	501-1000	2008	Private
Help Net Farma	Romania	1001-5000	1998	Private

Want to Find More Over The Counter Drug Retailers Companies?

If you want to find more companies that offer a range of medications, personal care products, and wellness items you can do so with Inven. This list was built with Inven and there are hundreds of companies like these globally.

With Inven you'll also get to know the company's:

• Detailed Ownership: Who owns the company? Is it a public or private company? What is the ownership structure?
• Contact data: Who are the founders and CEO's? What are their emails and phone numbers?
• Financials: How do these companies perform financially? What are their revenues and profit margins?

...and a lot more!