Medicap Pharmacy Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Medicap Pharmacy is a long-standing retail pharmacy franchise that traces its origins back to 1971 in Des Moines, Iowa. Just three years later, in 1974, the company began franchising and steadily grew its presence throughout the state.
By 1981, the network had expanded to 28 pharmacies across Iowa, and by 1984, it had moved into surrounding regions. Today, Medicap Pharmacy operates under Medicine Shoppe International, which is part of Cardinal Health. The franchise maintains its main office in West Des Moines, Iowa, while also having corporate facilities in Dublin, Ohio.
The brand provides a comprehensive mix of healthcare solutions, ranging from prescription medications and over-the-counter essentials to health supplies and exclusive private-label products. Many locations also enhance their retail services with immunizations, point-of-care testing, and one-on-one consultations designed to support personalized care.
What distinguishes Medicap Pharmacy from larger national chains is its community-oriented philosophy.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Medicap Pharmacy franchise? It costs on average between $130,000 – $961,000 to start a Medicap Pharmacy franchised center.
This includes expenses for leasehold improvements, pharmacy equipment, initial inventory, and early operating costs. The total investment varies based on several factors, such as the size and layout of the pharmacy, the market location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the property. Medicap Pharmacy offers 2 types of franchises:
| Type of Medicap Pharmacy® Business | Initial Investment |
|---|---|
| New Medicap Pharmacy® business | $478,050 – $961,440 |
| Medicap Pharmacy® business converted from an existing pharmacy | $130,000 – $582,440 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a New Medicap Pharmacy® business.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Fee | $0 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment | $42,000 – $95,000 |
| Pre-Opening Costs | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $55,000 – $175,000 |
| Signs & Installation | $15,000 – $35,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $95,000 – $170,000 |
| Grand Opening and Marketing | $4,000 – $34,000 |
| Accounts Receivable Financing | $60,000 – $100,000 |
| Computer and Pharmacy Equipment | $26,000 – $40,000 |
| Retail Solutions | $0 – $14,075 |
| Telepharmacy | $0 – $35,865 |
| Accreditation Costs | $3,050 – $7,500 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $175,000 – $245,000 |
| TOTAL | $478,050 – $961,440 |
Download the Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Medicap Pharmacy locations are there?
As of the most recent publicly available data, Medicap Pharmacy has about 54 locations in the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Medicap Pharmacy franchise?
The total investment required to open a Medicap Pharmacy franchise ranges from $130,000 to $961,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Medicap Pharmacy franchise?
A Medicap Pharmacy franchise requires ongoing payments that include a royalty fee of 3% of gross sales and a marketing and advertising fee of 1% of gross sales. These fees are paid regularly to the franchisor to cover operational support and to contribute to systemwide promotional campaigns.
What are the financial requirements to become a Medicap Pharmacy franchisee?
To become a Medicap Pharmacy franchisee, prospective applicants are typically expected to have a minimum liquid capital of about $55,000 to cover startup obligations and cash flow needs.
Who owns Medicap Pharmacy?
The franchise is owned by Medicine Shoppe International, Inc., which is a subsidiary of Cardinal Health.
Disclaimer
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