Smaller multiples launch two lobbying groups
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Peak Pharmacy group's Peter
Cattee is chairman of the new association for England and Wales
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The interests of smaller independent multiple groups
of pharmacies are to be represented by two new lobbying bodies.
The Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies
(AIMp), and an equivalent body for Scotland (AIMpS), will represent the
interests of multiple groups that are not part of the Company Chemists
Association. They are seeking representation on the Pharmaceutical Services
Negotiating Committee, the Scottish Pharmaceutical General Council and
local pharmaceutical committees.
Founder members of AIMp include Peak Pharmacy, Day
Lewis, H. I. Weldrick, Cohens Chemist and P. Williams Chemist. The group
currently covers 700 pharmacies in England and Wales. Founder members
of AIMpS are A. G. Bannerman, Davidson's Chemists, Lindsay & Gilmour
and Munro Chemists.
Peter Cattee of Peak Pharmacy is chairman of AIMp.
He says: "The association was formed following discussions and concerns
that the smaller multiples did not have anyone effectively lobbying on
their behalf."
Kirit Patel of Day Lewis is AIMp vice chairman.
He says that smaller multiple groups have head office infrastructure costs
that need to be taken into account. While the profession needs to speak
with one voice, there is a need for internal representation within pharmacy.
Reorganisations of the PSNC and LPCs could allow this to happen.
AIMp will be holding a meeting in Leicester on 23
January, to be addressed by Sue Sharpe, chief executive of the PSNC. Further
details of AIMp and the meeting are available from David Vanns, general
secretary, at H. I. Weldrick on 01302 369121.
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