果然财经｜零售药店倒闭潮来了？去年关了3.9万家

Industry Overview - The retail pharmacy industry in China is experiencing a significant downturn, with an estimated 39,000 pharmacies expected to close in 2024, averaging 107 closures per day, and projections suggesting that closures may exceed 100,000 by 2025 [1][3] - The number of pharmacies surged from 400,000 in 2010 to nearly 700,000 by 2024, but this rapid expansion is now reversing [1][3] Company Performance - Major players in the industry, such as Guoda Pharmacy, have closed over 1,270 stores in 2024, reporting a net loss exceeding 1.1 billion yuan [3] - Other companies like Jianzhijia and Yibao Pharmacy have also reported significant losses, with Jianzhijia's profit dropping from 160 million yuan in 2023 to a loss of over 90 million yuan in 2024 [3] - In the first quarter of 2025, several pharmacies, including Yibao Pharmacy and Yifeng Pharmacy, have also announced store closures [3] Market Dynamics - The market is facing structural oversupply, with the average number of customers served per store dropping from 4,112 in 2016 to 2,113 in 2023, indicating a saturation of the market [3][5] - High competition has led to aggressive price wars among pharmacies, with many resorting to loss-leading promotions to attract customers, further straining their financial viability [5] Consumer Behavior - Changing consumer habits, particularly among younger generations, are shifting towards online platforms for purchasing medications, exacerbating the decline in foot traffic to physical stores [7] - The tightening of healthcare insurance policies, including stricter regulations on the use of insurance cards, has further reduced the profitability of pharmacies, particularly those relying on chronic disease medications [8] Regulatory Environment - New regulations requiring pharmacies to implement complex billing processes and maintain compliance with drug traceability have increased operational challenges, particularly for smaller pharmacies [8] - By the end of 2025, all pharmacies must employ licensed pharmacists, adding to the operational costs and compliance pressures faced by the industry [8]