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The Australia and New Zealand OTC & Rx markets are set for significant growth, with Australia projected to exceed USD 23.1 billion by 2040 at a CAGR of 5.37%, and New Zealand expected to reach USD 2.19 billion, growing at a CAGR of 5.48%. Overall, both Australia and New Zealand’s markets are experiencing an increasing consumer preference for self-medication and preventive healthcare, leading to increased demand for over-the-counter (OTC) products. Pharmacies are expanding their OTC offerings to meet this demand.
Australia and New Zealand Pharmacy Trends & Market Overview
The pharmacy chains landscapes of Australia and New Zealand are experiencing significant transformations, driven by mergers, technological advancements, and changing consumer expectations. The integration of digital health solutions, including telemedicine and e-prescriptions, is enhancing patient access to healthcare services. This shift is also fostering the growth of online pharmacy services, providing consumers with more convenient options for obtaining medications or self-medications.
Figure 1: The Australia and New Zealand Pharma and Consumer Health Market Data
Pharmacy Chains landscape & market Australia
The Australian pharmacy sector features a mix of independently owned pharmacies, franchise networks, and large chains. Some of the larger chains include:
- API (Australian Pharmaceutical Industries): Is a major Australian health and beauty company that operates as both a pharma wholesaler and a retail pharmacy group. API owns the Priceline Pharmacy brand, which has over 470 stores nationwide, and distributes prescription and OTC medicines to pharmacies across Australia. API was acquired by Wesfarmers in 2022.
- Sigma Healthcare: Leading pharma company specializing in wholesale distribution and retail pharmacy franchising, manages a network of over 1,200 branded and independent pharmacies, operating under brands such as Amcal, Guardian Pharmacy, Discount Drug Stores, and
- Ebos healthcare: EBOS Healthcare is a division of EBOS Group Limited, the largest and most diversified Australasian marketer, wholesaler, and distributor of healthcare, medical, and pharma products.
There have been some notable mergers and acquisitions, such as the merger between Chemist Warehouse and Sigma Healthcare in February 2025. This merger positions Sigma Healthcare as a key player in Australia’s healthcare industry.
Pharmacy Chain landscape & market New Zealand
New Zealand’s pharmacy sector also comprises a mix of independent pharmacies and larger chains, with organizations like ‘Pharmac’ playing a key role in funding and managing medicines. Key players include:
- Unichem: Part of Green Cross Health Limited, Unichem operates numerous pharmacies across New Zealand, offering a wide range of health services and products. They focus on community-based healthcare and provide services like vaccinations and health checks.
- Life Pharmacy: Also under Green Cross Health, Life Pharmacy specializes in beauty and wellness products alongside traditional pharmacy services. They have a significant online presence, allowing customers to shop for health and beauty products online.
- Chemist Warehouse: Expanding from Australia, Chemist Warehouse has established a presence in New Zealand, offering discounted health and beauty products through both physical stores and an online platform.
Market data suggests that the New Zealand pharmacy market is evolving, with chains like Unichem and Life Pharmacy focusing on integrating comprehensive health services, and new entrants like Chemist Warehouse introducing competitive pricing strategies.
Figure 2: Pharmacy Chains Landscape in Australia.
Key Market Drivers and Trends in Australia and New Zealand
Market Trends Australia
There is a growing emphasis on preventative health with an increase in demand of nutritional products & supplements and consumer health products that support overall well-being. Pharmacies are also increasingly leveraging technology to improve their operations, such as online pharmacies, delivery services, e-prescriptions.
Market Trends New Zealand
New Zealand’s pharmacy market is witnessing a growing demand for natural remedies and herbal supplements and a growing consumer preference for self-medication and preventive healthcare, leading to an increased demand for consumer health products.
Chameleon Pharma Consulting Group (CPC) has over 20 years of experience in supporting Pharma, OTC, Medical Devices, Phyto, and Aesthetic Medicine companies. Having established own offices & local hubs across Latin America, Europe, Asia, the US/Canada, the Middle East, and the CEE/CIS regions is another advantage of CPC. With this local network and expertise gained from 300+ international projects and a team of 25 experts we offer our clients:
- Business Development, M&A, and Due Diligence
- Market Entry & Expansion: Systematic product and country analysis, market reports
- Strategic Partnering: Identifying local partners, acquisitions, or setting up own offices
- Regulatory & Registration: for drugs, MD, Derma, Aesthetic Medicine, etc.
- Market Authorization & Compliance: Holding MAs, conducting pharmacovigilance
- Quality & Certification: GMP certification, pre-GMP audits
Contact us today for your individual request at service@chameleon-pharma.com!
