I still remember that Friday afternoon in October 2023.
I had just stepped off the train in Birmingham with my wife, heading to the Pharmacy Show. On the train, we got chatting with another couple also attending the event. In the middle of that conversation, they mentioned something I had never heard of before — IPPA, the Independent Plus Pharmacy Association
Then came the invitation:
“There’s an AGM and dinner happening this evening — you should come along.”
I hadn’t planned on it. But food was on offer, I was already in town, and I thought, Why not?
What I Walked Into Changed Everything
That evening, I entered a room full of African pharmacy contractors — business owners like me, running high-performing community pharmacies across the UK.
People winning awards.
People running multiple stores.
People doing business at a level that challenged and inspired me.
In that moment, I realised two things:
- I wasn’t alone in the everyday challenges of pharmacy ownership.
- There were others I could learn from — and support too.
That same night, I joined IPPA. I haven’t looked back since.
Why You Should Consider Joining Too
🔹 If You’re a New or Aspiring Pharmacy Owner
If you’re early in your journey — or preparing to become a contractor — IPPA gives you the support I wish I had at the start.
You’ll gain:
- Mentorship from experienced contractors
- Practical business guidance on contracts, supplier negotiations, and profitability
- CPD and compliance support tailored for independent pharmacy owners
- A sense of community with people who understand your unique journey
🔹 If You’re an Established Contractor
After over 20 years in this profession, I’ve come to believe this:
Success is sweeter when it’s shared.
As a member of IPPA, I’ve found a way to:
- Give back to the next generation of contractors
- Shape the direction of community pharmacy
- Use my experience to help others grow and avoid costly mistakes
This isn’t just about growing your business — it’s about growing our community.
This Is Not the Time to Step Back
The landscape is shifting.
We have a new NHS contract on the horizon.
We face economic pressures, staffing challenges, and changing expectations.
This is not the time to walk alone.
It’s the time to lock arms with others who understand what you’re navigating — and who are building with the future in mind.
Join Us Today
Whether you’re new or experienced, IPPA offers more than a membership — it offers a movement, a network, and a platform for long-term impact.
👉 Join us at ippa.uk
👉 Renew your membership if you’ve been part of the journey
👉 Be part of something bigger
Let’s build the future of African-owned pharmacy in the UK — together.
See you at the next AGM.
