For the last 36 years, owners Gavin and Margaret-Anne Smith have reached above and beyond to meet the ongoing needs of generations of Medowie families, providing personal, caring service from their local pharmacy. Theirs is a rare story of family, community and friendship that has undoubtedly been the building blocks for the thriving business it is today.

Despite the inevitable change that the emergence of big pharmacy chains has brought about, Gavin and his 20 loyal staff enjoy a rapport with customers that would be enviable for any business owner today.

“It might sound like a cliche but it truly is wonderful to be able to look after generations of families and really get to know their history and how we can help them. We have built a trust in our community that we are both proud of and grateful for,” begins Gavin.

While the focus is on old-fashioned values and genuine service, the pharmacy is far from outdated. Gavin has the unique background of a long-standing pharmacist and has also been a qualified herbalist for the last 20 years, which brings a holistic approach to health that customers truly benefit from.

“If you combine our thorough knowledge of our customers’ history with our pharmaceutical experience and then add herbal remedies - it’s something quite powerful. Customers can be assured we recommend the best and most appropriate treatment for their circumstances,” adds Gavin.

With 8 pharmacists on the team, service is efficient. With 4 pharmacists qualified to give the flu vaccine, the team can accommodate walk-in patients in the week.

Blood pressure checks, medicine checks and dosage administration aids are all part of the regular service, with home delivery available when needed. Customers are truly looked after, with little that Gavin and Margaret Anne won’t try to accommodate.

“If a customer can’t get in to pick a prescription up we’ll go to them, it’s how good service should be,” he says.

Passionate about his work, Gavin’s enthusiasm runs right through the business, son David, recently completing his degree in pharmacy has joined the team.

All staff members, including well known face and pharmacist Warwick Bremner and his daughter Nicole, echo the sentiment of service first. With extended opening hours and seven day trading, customers’ needs are always a priority and with some great Christmas gifts in store, it’s a perfect time to drop by.

It’s a story that has stood the test of time and a great deal of change and is likely to continue to do so for some time yet.