Amazon opens online pharmacy

Amazon is looking to go after a new share of the market with the launch of Amazon Pharmacy, a new storefront on the e-commerce site that enables customers to manage pharmacy transactions.

The service, while not directly related to private label, is a new way for Amazon to drive consumers to Amazon and under the Amazon Pharmacy branding. The service includes free two-day delivery for Prime members. In that regard, the service could meet the need for managing long-term prescriptions as opposed to immediate prescription needs filled by brick-and-mortar pharmacies.

Amazon Pharmacy is a discrete offering from Pillpack and a complement to drive fuller shopping trips to the e-commerce giant. It will begin in 45 states.

“As more and more people look to complete everyday errands from home, pharmacy is an important and needed addition to the Amazon online store,” said Doug Herrington, senior vice president of North American consumer at Amazon. “PillPack has provided exceptional pharmacy service for individuals with chronic health conditions for over six years. Now, we’re expanding our pharmacy offering to Amazon.com, which will help more customers save time, save money, simplify their lives, and feel healthier.”

Read more on this news at sister publication Drug Store News.