VALLEY FORGE, PA. August 8, 2000 – Five local pharmacies were the recipients of this year’s prestigious Family Pharmacy “Pride of the Family Awards.” The awards, which recognize the top Family Pharmacy member in five separate categories, were announced at the 15th annual AmeriSource Conference and Exposition, held July 17-20 in Orlando, Fla.
The award winners are selected by AmeriSource’s Family Pharmacy network each year from more than 2,500 Family Pharmacies nationwide.
This year’s winners were:
The Chairman’s Award: Boone Drugs, Inc., Boone, North Carolina, and owner John Stacy. The Chairman’s Award is presented to the store that exemplifies the highest standards in the independent pharmacy field and represents a model for other independent retail pharmacies to emulate. This includes high marks in the four other Pride of the Family Award categories – community service, private label, merchandising and program participation – as well as working closely with other Family Pharmacy members to help them succeed.
“Boone Drugs was selected to receive our most prestigious award for their ongoing commitment to all the principles of the Family Pharmacy Program,” said Bruce Kneeland, Vice President, Family Pharmacy. “They have contributed greatly to their community through a continuing partnership with Habitat for Humanity, as well as working closely with area doctors and hospitals, and conducting diabetes and blood pressure screenings for area residents. In addition, they have demonstrated a commitment to friendly service, competitive pricing, and a willingness to help other Family Pharmacy stores achieve a similar level of success.”
Community Pharmacy Award: Community Drug Stores, Midland, Mich., and owners Stuart and Rick Bergstein. The Community Pharmacy Award is given to a Family Pharmacy member who has demonstrated exemplary service to the community by working with local groups and organizations, particularly with regard to expanding healthcare services offered by Family Pharmacy. “In its 70 years in business, Community Drug Stores has given a great deal back to the community it serves,” said Kneeland. “These contributions include serving on many local boards, lecturing to dental society and nursing groups, conducting blood pressure screenings, installing an electric chair lift to enable all customers to reach the store’s second floor, and becoming licensed hearing aid professionals to meet the needs of its customers.” Founded in 1930, Community Drug Stores is operated today by the son and grandson of its founder, Leonard Bergstein.
The Private Label Award: Ferri Pharmacy, Murrysville, Pa., and owner Bill Ferri. This award is presented to the store that has developed strong and successful programs to inform employees and customers about the benefits of private label brands. Ferri Pharmacy has accomplished this through an outstanding promotional program that includes store displays, newspaper and radio advertisements, and Family Pharmacy Private Label circulars. In addition, Ferri Pharmacy was selected for its one-on-one interactions with customers. “Bill Ferri and his employees let customers know that he and his staff truly believe in the Family Pharmacy brand and its ability to meet individual needs,” said Kneeland.
The Merchandising Award: Commet Welcome Pharmacy, Michigan Center, Mich., and owner Rob Commet. This award is given to the Family Pharmacy that has successfully integrated and implemented effective and creative merchandising techniques into its operations. Commet Welcome Pharmacy was credited with excellent use of in-store signage, installing “health kiosks” and creating separate sections in its store for wellness therapies and nutraceuticals.
Program Participation Award: Cox Drug Store, Tahlequah, Okla., and owners David and Janet Morris. This award is given for the use, implementation and integration of a variety of Family Pharmacy and other AmeriSource programs. David Morris, owner of Cox Drug Store, was cited for his “commitment to making the most of the pharmacist’s role in healthcare today” and offering a number of Family Pharmacy programs to support this effort.
About Family Pharmacy
Family Pharmacy, an AmeriSource company, is a network of 2,500 independent pharmacies that have joined together to enhance profitability and achieve many of the benefits of a larger organization, such as buying power, consumer programs, advertising discounts and private label programs, while still maintaining their community focus, independent status and unique identities.
About AmeriSource
AmeriSource Health Corporation, with more than $11 billion in operating revenue, is a leading distributor of pharmaceutical and related healthcare services. Headquartered in Valley Forge, PA, the Company serves its base of about 15,000 customer accounts through a national network of 24 strategically located distribution facilities. For news and additional information about the company, visit its web site at www.amerisource.com.