“It’s hard to believe this will be our third Christmas as Pharmasave in Steinbach!”
Time flies when you’re having fun… and building this new business has been quite the adventure. Owner and pharmacist Scott Penner of Pharmasave in Steinbach is looking forward to the festive season… while looking back on how far the company has come.
“Anytime you open a new business, you’re taking a calculated risk. It was a little slower in the beginning, but within three or four months we had a lot of traction."
He notes that their September anniversary seems to be a growth point for the business, with a boost in traffic and sales at the same time every year. Guests are also frequently surprised at the size of the store, the amount of options available, and the great selection of M&M Meats products.
“A lot of people haven't been in to see us, or don't even know that we exist. So it's always a challenge in that regard to let people know that we are another option. Plus, word of mouth definitely helps.”
New to Pharmasave’s ever-growing list of services is texting with Phone Fence. This service allows customers to text Pharmasave on their landline, removing the need to remember two separate phone numbers. Clients are invited to order refills, send photos of their prescriptions, ask questions, and even send in insurance information.
“On our end, it’s a desktop application, so we can text them back from a keyboard,” Penner clarifies. “It’s a great way to follow up with people and not play phone tag all day long!”
With the increase in business comes a greater need to fill staffing gaps. Penner says that he has had a pharmacist job listing posted for over a year, but has not yet received any qualified applicants. Penner is currently working the bulk of the hours, which makes for some very long days, but in the end, says that as a business, having lots to do is a good problem to have.
“Yes, we’re still looking for a pharmacist to join our team,” he says. “I’d like to think that we have a great pharmacy here, and great staff to work with. I’m not just saying that about my staff- you can tell they enjoy working here. We’ve even had some staff come over from other bigger corporate environments, and they’re pleasantly surprised with the environment here.”
Colette Dunlop, long time area pharmacist, says she enjoys working at Pharmasave because of the great support staff, which allows her to focus on customer care while filling prescriptions. Dunlop joined Pharmasave shortly after the business opened, and says she feels proud to be part of the tremendous growth of this unique pharmacy.
"It's a nice, relaxed atmosphere to work in, it's a nice change of pace, and I love the flexibility I have with my hours."
Martha Pauls is another staff member who made the switch.
“It wasn’t an easy decision,” Pauls confesses. “But I’ve been given the opportunity to grow personally and professionally. Being the newest team member was intimidating, but the work environment is supportive and encouraging.”
Pauls observed that the work dynamic behind the counter reflects on to the customer experience, and that this is one of the things that makes Pharmasave such a positive place to work.
“All in all, at Pharmasave the staff and customers can feel comfortable and heard, it’s a great group of staff.”
Experienced pharmacists looking for a change are encouraged to apply- Pharmasave in Steinbach would love to have you!
“We are very happy to be part of the community, and to be able to serve the community,” Penners shares. “So I just wanted to wish everyone all the best this holiday season, in the New Year, and Merry Christmas to everyone.”
Pharmasave is open daily in Steinbach’s Victoria Plaza. Browse their flyer or transfer your prescriptions from your current pharmacy on their website, or give them a call at 1-(204)-326-2334.