AIOCD's nationwide pharmacy bandh fizzles as chains, Jan Aushadhi, AMRIT stay open
AIOCD's May 20 strike call against e-pharmacies failed to land, with retail associations across 12 states refusing to join. Major chains, hospital pharmacies, Jan Aushadhi Kendras and AMRIT outlets remained operational, citing the drug regulator's assurance to review the e-pharmacy framework. The 12.40 lakh-chemist body's leverage against online players is visibly weakening.
What happened
AIOCD's nationwide pharmacy bandh on May 20 against e-pharmacies has fizzled, with major chains, hospital pharmacies, Jan Aushadhi and AMRIT outlets staying
Key facts
- 12.40 lakh chemists
- 12 states
- May 20
Why this matters
With AIOCD's bargaining position visibly eroding, this is an opportune window to pursue acquisitions or alliances with regional chain pharmacies and PSU-linked formats before consolidation accelerates.