Australia’s largest and newest independent pharmacy service provider celebrates its first birthday

L to R in photo: Dave Fenlon (CEO) with PAG Genius Award Winners Maree Mitcham, Nikitha Perera, Abbi Wilkes, Graeme Bryce, Lily Do, Shannon Kerr and Ann-Maree Chadwick (Chief People & Culture Officer

The Platform Alliance Group (PAG) celebrates its first birthday by recognising team members for their significant contribution to member pharmacies, colleagues, and the business itself.

PAG was established in March 2022 with a merger of Pharmacy Platform and Pharmacy Alliance to become Australia’s largest independent pharmacy group with 1100 member pharmacies and bringing together leading support brands – Chemist Discount Centre, Alliance Pharmacy, Advantage Pharmacy, Pharmacy Catalyst, instigo; and technology brands – Buy-It-Right and Know-It-All. Since then, developing people, culture and capability has been the highest priority to provide exceptional support, business and health programs, and technology solutions to pharmacy owners who are navigating significant ongoing change and operating pressures with product out-of-stocks, staffing shortages and rising business costs.

Dave Fenlon, CEO, said, ‘PAG was established to protect the interests of independent pharmacists and drive growth for their pharmacies today and in the future because we believe that independent pharmacies truly understand the needs of their communities and can provide better care.  We have 160 talented team members who are incredibly committed to supporting every one of our member pharmacies and inspiring their colleagues and member pharmacies every day.’

Abbi Wilkes, Marketing Specialist for Alliance Pharmacy, was recognised for the ‘Extra Mile’ award – PAG’s most prestigious award, said, ‘It’s been a truly rewarding year and a fantastic experience working with a great team.  A lot has changed for our communities, with the cost of living being a major concern today.  Top of mind for me this year is helping our pharmacies communicate that they can help every Australian look after health in an affordable way.’

Graeme Bryce, National Procurement Manager, received the ‘Working Together’ award, said, ‘It’s been amazing to be part of such a big transformation seeing such great industry brands and teams come together as PAG.  My role is to help our pharmacies manage the cost of doing business, which is crucial in the environment we are in now, but it takes fantastic teamwork to make sure pharmacies get the most out of what I do.’

Ann-Maree Chadwick, Chief People & Culture Officer, said, ‘I’m so pleased to mark our first birthday by recognising six outstanding team members who are experts in their areas, for their contributions to creating a positive team culture and delivering outstanding service to our members.’

 

Text by: PAG