Medicine Shoppe Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Medicine Shoppe has been helping pharmacists establish and manage locally focused pharmacies since its founding in 1970 in St. Louis, Missouri. The brand entered franchising just a year later, in 1971.
Today, the company remains based in St. Louis and operates as part of Medicine Shoppe International, which is owned by Cardinal Health.
The franchise provides independent pharmacy owners with the resources they need to offer tailored, patient-centered care.
Through a Medicine Shoppe location, customers can access prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, vitamins, wellness programs, immunizations, and on-site testing services. The concept blends the traditional neighborhood pharmacy atmosphere with the efficiency and innovation of modern healthcare.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Medicine Shoppe franchise? It costs on average between $478,000 – $961,000 to start a Medicine Shoppe franchised facility.
This includes costs for construction, pharmacy equipment, initial inventory, and early operating expenses. The total investment can vary based on several factors, such as the type of pharmacy setup, the location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| 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 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Medicine Shoppe locations are there?
As of the latest available data, Medicine Shoppe International operates nearly 500 locations across the United States. Out of these, 297 are owned by franchiseed.
What is the total investment required to open a Medicine Shoppe franchise?
The total investment required to open a Medicine Shoppe franchise ranges from $478,000 to $961,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Medicine Shoppe franchise?
Medicine Shoppe franchisees are required to pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5% of gross sales, which grants continued access to the brand, systems, and support services. In addition to royalties, franchisees must also contribute to marketing efforts, typically through an advertising fee of 1% of gross sales.
What are the financial requirements to become a Medicine Shoppe franchisee?
To qualify for a Medicine Shoppe franchise, prospective owners are generally expected to have a minimum net worth of $400,000 and at least $200,000 in liquid capital. These financial requirements ensure that franchisees have the resources to cover startup costs, manage initial operating expenses, and sustain the business until it reaches profitability.
Who owns Medicine Shoppe?
The Medicine Shoppe franchise is owned by Cardinal Health, Inc., a global healthcare services and products company.
Disclaimer
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