A prominent chain of pharmacies on the high street has stepped in to rescue 60 branches of a competing firm facing financial difficulties. Allied Pharmacies has assumed control of 60 Jhoots Pharmacies locations, most of which are currently closed. Allied has expressed its commitment to restoring essential pharmacy services at these sites.
This acquisition expands Allied’s presence to approximately 210 branches in England and Wales, as reported by C+D. In a statement, Allied emphasized the critical role community pharmacies play in public health and wellbeing, acknowledging the impact of the closures on vulnerable groups reliant on local healthcare access.
Members of Parliament were briefed recently on Jhoots’ closure of some pharmacies, raising concerns about the resulting lack of health services in communities. Allegations of payment delays to staff were also brought to light.
The ownership of Jhoots Pharmacies is divided between brothers Manjit and Sarbjit Jhooty, with Manjit owning over 20 branches and Sarbjit the remaining 129. Manjit’s spokesperson reaffirmed the solvency and functionality of the pharmacies under his management, while Sarbjit acknowledged workforce challenges and assured resolution efforts.
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