If it feels somewhat different to walk through the doors of Steinbach’s Pharmasave, it might be because so many faces are familiar. Or because the staff’s positive demeanor is a top-down dynamic. Or because a customer-first approach ensures each client is treated like a person, and not a number.
Or, maybe it’s a bit of everything.
“It’s a very customer-focused, very welcoming store, and our customers feel it,” says Nichol Hauck, a staff member who recently made the switch to Pharmasave. “We want our customers to feel welcomed, to be served well. And we want to know our customers, and for them to know they’re not just another number.”
Given the personnel behind the counter, it’s a disposition that comes naturally. Kelly Penner is a pharmacy assistant who’d worked 16 years at the hospital pharmacy, and was enjoying her full-time commitment as a bus driver when an opportunity at Pharmasave opened up.
“In December [Pharmasave franchise owner] Scott Penner approached me and asked if I’d consider coming over here,” she recalls. “I had worked with Scott when he was a student, so there was a bit of history there.”
She decided to take the chance on herself – something she jokes was more of a challenge given her age.
“It’s been a great change and just goes to show that you can do things even when you’re my age!”
Colette Dunlop, long time area pharmacist, says she enjoys working at Pharmasave because of the great support staff, which allow her to focus on customer care while filling prescriptions. Dunlop joined Pharmasave shortly after the business opened in 2022, 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. This is the best place I've worked in my 24 years as a retail pharmacist."
Pharmasave customers will also recognize Martha Pauls from her nearly 20 years as a pharmacy assistant at other Steinbach stores. Looking to focus more on patient care, she made a serious career shift, and is already enjoying the interaction with customers.
“You know, it was time for a change. I needed some personal growth, to develop myself mentally and physically,” she explains. “Where I was at was a bit overwhelming, so I wanted to go to a smaller community pharmacy.”
Pharmasave’s draw, both for customers and staff members, begins with its owner-operator, Scott Penner – though he’s quick to point out that nothing that happens with his business is a one-man show.
“This is truly a team effort, providing the kind of care that we do,” he says. “We all have the same philosophy of being the best community pharmacy in our town.”
Pauls, for her part, already values Penner’s leadership.
“Scott is a great guy to work with,” she says. “He’s very understanding and he’s always looking out for us, making sure we have what we need. I think customers will appreciate the patient-friendly dynamic we have.”
Pharmacy assistant Kelly Penner concurs, and emphasizes that it’s the people on both sides of the counter who make Steinbach’s Pharmasave a great place to work and to shop.
“We have awesome customers, and with our staff it’s like we’re working with friends,” she says. “It’s just a good environment. Every day feels like a good day.”
Now hiring part- and full-time pharmacists, Pharmasave is looking for someone with a BScPhm degree from an accredited pharmacy program, and a valid Manitoba pharmacist license. The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of pharmacy laws, regulations, and ethical standards, and possess excellent interpersonal skills. Penner reminds anyone interested that hours are flexible, benefits are great, and that the store is closed on all stat holidays.
Pharmasave is located in the Victoria Plaza Mall, at Unit 10C, 20 Brandt St in Steinbach. Open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m. Call (204) 326-2334.
