Embracing Private Services as the Future of Pharmacy
The central theme of the brunch was clear: community pharmacies must embrace private services to secure their future. Every discussion and presentation focused on how pharmacies can build these services sustainably into their business models, supported by the right digital and operational infrastructure. The event explored four key pillars:- Identifying and implementing high-demand private services to diversify revenue
- Empowering teams to deliver these services confidently and efficiently
- Leveraging technology to create a seamless, patient-centred service experience
- Marketing and promoting services effectively to meet growing patient demand
Impact and Outcomes We Aimed to Achieve
The Northern Ireland Pharmacy Brunch was not just about a single event; it was about building long-term momentum around private healthcare within community pharmacy. Our desired outcomes included:- Showcasing tools, providers, and partners that enable pharmacies to launch and scale private services
- Highlighting real-life case studies from contractors already succeeding in private healthcare delivery
- Encouraging collaboration and peer-to-peer learning to accelerate adoption of new business models
- Feeding ideas and success stories into Pharmacy in Focus coverage to inspire wider sector transformation
Panel Session 1: Showcasing Solution Providers
The first panel session highlighted a group of leading solution providers, including, ConsultTed, Nuumad,, NPA, Tuli Health, Clear Clinics, Pharmacy Mentor, and Numark. Together, these organisations presented under four themes that captured the core areas where pharmacies can innovate and grow through private service delivery.1. Why Private Services Matter and How to Choose the Right Ones
Speakers explored why the future of community pharmacy depends on diversification beyond dispensing. They discussed which private services have the highest potential for growth and how pharmacies can strategically select the right ones based on local patient demand, profitability, and capacity. Key insights were shared on what separates thriving private service models from those that fail to gain traction.2. Enabling the Team
Delegates learnt how empowering teams is fundamental to success. Providers demonstrated training, frameworks, and support systems that help pharmacy teams deliver private services confidently and consistently. The message was clear: sustainable private healthcare delivery starts with a capable and motivated workforce.3. Technology as an Enabler
Technology was a consistent theme throughout the event. Providers showed how digital tools can streamline service delivery, manage bookings, and enhance patient communication. The discussions also touched on building integrated ecosystems that connect clinical care with online visibility, helping pharmacies scale private services efficiently.4. Marketing Your Services
Marketing emerged as one of the most critical components for success. Providers shared effective strategies for promoting private services to the right audiences—both online and offline. They emphasised how clear communication, compliance, and digital visibility together drive awareness, trust, and sustained patient uptake.