Competition and Consumer Protections Commission launching study into pharmacy sector

Ireland’s Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has launched a study into the retail pharmacy sector.

​The CCPC have identified areas of the retail pharmacy market that merit examination based on consumer complaints, as well as market development.

​The market study will focus on how the market is working for consumers, examining consumer experience when purchasing services and products from retail pharmacies.

It will also focus on the supply of prescription and over-the-counter products to consumers. The CCPC will consider the services that pharmacies provide, like vaccinations and consultations.

​The CCPC will assess the retail pharmacy market, looking at price transparency and consumer switching, the regulatory framework and competition and market developments.

​The study aims to make recommendations about ways to improve competition and consumer outcomes.

​Geoffrey Gray, Commission Member, said: “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.

​“That’s why we want to hear from consumers, pharmacy owners, pharmacists, public bodies, regulators, representative groups and others with views and experiences of this market.”