Business
Clicks Expands Its Reach with New Pharmacies Across South Africa After Regulatory Resolution

Clicks, one of South Africa’s leading retail pharmacy chains, has announced the rollout of new pharmacies across the country after receiving 27 new licenses from the Department of Health.
The licenses mark a turning point for the company following a lengthy regulatory dispute over its ownership of Unicorn Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturing arm of the Clicks Group.
In May 2016, the Independent Community Pharmacy Association (ICPA) filed a complaint with the Department of Health, arguing that Clicks’ ownership of Unicorn violated regulations prohibiting pharmacies from owning pharmaceutical manufacturing companies.
The legal battle culminated in a March 2023 ruling by the Constitutional Court in favor of the ICPA, which forced the Department of Health to halt the processing of new pharmacy licenses for Clicks.
Regulatory Compliance Unlocks Expansion
To comply with the ruling, Clicks sold Unicorn Pharmaceuticals in August 2024, clearing the path for the Department of Health to grant new pharmacy licenses.
Since the sale, Clicks has been granted 27 new licenses and has already opened 11 new pharmacies in November and December 2024. The company plans to accelerate its expansion in 2025, strengthening its position in the South African pharmacy market.
Clicks’ CEO highlighted the importance of this milestone:
“This rollout supports our long-term growth strategy and reinforces our commitment to delivering accessible healthcare solutions across South Africa.”
Clicks’ Strong Market Performance
The company’s recent trading update for the 20 weeks leading to 12 January 2025 highlights its robust performance. Clicks reported an 8.1% increase in group turnover, with retail sales up by 8.7% and distribution turnover growing by 9.5%.
Clicks’ retail sales include brands such as The Body Shop and Sorbet corporate stores. Notably, the turnover from Unicorn Pharmaceuticals was excluded following its sale, with Clicks emphasizing that this disposal has no impact on the group’s turnover or distribution segment.
What This Means for South African Consumers
The expansion of Clicks pharmacies is expected to improve access to healthcare services and products across the country. With its enhanced footprint, Clicks aims to serve a broader demographic while maintaining its commitment to quality and affordability.
South Africa’s pharmacy market is becoming increasingly competitive, but Clicks’ proactive resolution of regulatory challenges and strategic expansion gives it a distinct advantage.
Clicks’ focus on growth and compliance reflects a strong commitment to its customers and stakeholders. As the company opens more pharmacies in 2025, it is set to strengthen its position as a leader in South Africa’s retail healthcare sector.
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