HBF sells Friendlies to Pharmacy 777

HBF has sold the Friendlies Pharmacy master franchise, under which 31 Western Australian pharmacies currently operate, to Pharmacy 777 and agreed to partner with the buyer to provide preventative health services to its members across the stores.

A HBF spokesperson said they could not disclose the details of the sale but said the dollar value was the least important part of the deal.

They said the significant aspect was the collaborative agreement between Pharmacy 777 and HBF to expand the reach of preventative health services provided to HBF members in pharmacies.

In a statement, the companies said Pharmacy 777 will be HBF’s exclusive provider of preventative health services including flu vaccinations, health checks and weight management programs.

Pharmacy 777 will provide financial and operational support to help Friendlies pharmacies transition to the Pharmacy 777 brand.

HBF chief executive John Van Der Wielen said the services delivered in pharmacies were highly valued by HBF members and HBF wanted to make them available to as many members as possible.  

“This alliance will mean thousands more HBF members will have ready access to the health services that come with HBF membership,” Mr Van Der Wielen said.

Pharmacy 777 managing director Kim Brotherson said their pharmacies are not just about supplying medication but ensuring they deliver meaningful health outcomes that are built around the needs of every patient.

HBF became the franchisor of the Friendlies group in 2012 and began offering preventative health services to HBF members in the pharmacies in the same year.

Pharmacy 777’s first store was established in Applecross, Perth in 1968 and has since grown to provide services in 26 locations.