Core Insights - The retail pharmacy industry is experiencing a significant transformation, moving away from rapid expansion to a focus on consolidation and adaptation to market pressures [1][2][4] - The aging population is creating new opportunities for retail pharmacies, with a notable increase in demand from the 50+ demographic, which now accounts for approximately 50% of sales [1][8][10] Part 01: Industry Trends - The high-growth era of retail pharmacies is coming to an end, with many companies reporting a reduction in store numbers [2][4] - In the first half of 2025, four out of six listed retail pharmacy companies reduced their store count, with notable closures at 老百姓大药房 and 一心堂 [2][3] - The overall number of retail pharmacies in China decreased by approximately 3,000 in Q1 2025, following a decline of 3,395 in Q4 2024 [3][4] Part 02: New Growth Drivers - The increasing elderly population is driving demand for both medical and health management services, particularly for chronic disease management [9][10] - Retail pharmacies must transition from being solely drug sellers to comprehensive health service providers to meet the evolving needs of the silver-haired demographic [10][24] Part 03: Strategic Pathways - Retail pharmacies are focusing on non-drug health products and services to cater to the health needs of the elderly [11][12] - Companies like 老百姓大药房 are seeing growth in non-drug sales, with a reported increase of over 9% in related revenues [12][25] - Successful expansion into non-drug categories requires precise product selection and innovative marketing strategies [15][26] Health Management Services - Retail pharmacies are developing differentiated services to build closer relationships with the elderly community [16][20] - Innovations include home health management services and community health stations that provide essential health services [21][23] - 老百姓大药房 has implemented programs like the "30-day blood pressure stabilization plan" to assist elderly patients in managing their health [23][24]