In big cities you can find them on almost every corner, in rural areas they are scarce: pharmacies are part of the appearance in many, but not in all areas.
Nationwide, the number of pharmacies is declining significantly. As the association president emphasizes, there is simply a lack of appreciation and the necessary offspring.

Fewer pharmacies and branches

The number of pharmacies in Germany is steadily declining. At the end of 2022, the Federal Union of German Associations of Pharmacists reported a total of 18,068 branches.

A decline of a total of 393 production sites is the most massive loss in the history of Germany, according to the association.

Not only did the proportion of self-employed pharmacists fall. For the first time, the number of branches run by pharmacists was also reduced. In Germany, the pharmacy density is 22 pharmacies per 100,000 inhabitants. The European average is 32 branches per 100,000 inhabitants.

Ensure a nationwide supply of medicines

As Abda President Gabriele Regina Overwiening indicated, the way to the nearest pharmacy is automatically longer for many patients. She considers it particularly dramatic that the proportion of self-employed pharmacists and the number of branches operated are falling. Over 30 branches across the country were closed last year alone. Numerous owners close their businesses because they cannot find a successor or qualified staff.

Appropriate measures would have to be introduced to ensure a nationwide safeguarding of the supply of medicines. The Abda President explained that politicians would have to provide detailed framework conditions for the operation of pharmacies.
At the same time, the state should endeavor to reduce the proportion of bureaucratic burdens. According to Overwiening, pharmacies do not need coercive measures, but instead more appreciation and promising perspectives.