Running out of a common medicine is one of the most avoidable ways a pharmacy loses sales and loyalty. A little planning, plus a distributor with short lead times, keeps your shelves dependable.
Know your fast-movers
A small share of your lines drives most of your sales. Identify those fast-movers and treat them as never-out-of-stock items — they deserve the closest attention.
Set par levels and reorder points
For each key line, decide the minimum quantity that should trigger a reorder. Base it on how fast the item sells and how quickly your distributor can deliver, so a new lot arrives before you run dry.
Order on a regular rhythm
A fixed ordering schedule, topped up with quick mid-week orders when needed, beats ad-hoc panic buying. A predictable rhythm also helps your distributor serve you better.
Plan for seasonal and local demand
Demand shifts with festivals, weather and local events — temple and tourist seasons, monsoon respiratory demand, and so on. Stock ahead of predictable spikes rather than reacting once shelves are bare.
Lean on a reliable distributor
Short, dependable lead times let you hold less stock safely. Choose a partner who delivers to your town on a regular route, can manage urgent top-ups, and is willing to source items that are temporarily unavailable.
Quick checklist
- List your top fast-moving lines and never let them run dry
- Set a reorder point for each key item
- Order on a regular schedule, with quick top-ups
- Stock ahead of festivals and seasonal demand
- Use a distributor with reliable delivery to your town
Frequently asked questions
How do I set a reorder point?
Estimate how many units you sell while waiting for a delivery, add a small buffer, and reorder when stock hits that level. Shorter distributor lead times mean you can hold less safely.
How much safety stock should a pharmacy keep?
Enough to cover your delivery lead time plus a buffer for demand spikes — more for fast-movers, less for slow lines. A reliable distributor lets you keep this lean.
Related guides
Fast-moving medicines every pharmacy should keep in stock · Seasonal medicine demand: planning your pharmacy's year · Managing medicine expiry, near-expiry and returns in your pharmacy
More: product range · delivery areas · FAQs · all guides