Retail pharmacy across Europe is undergoing a rapid digital transformation. This shift is being driven by a combination of factors, including rising patient expectations, ongoing staffing shortages, and growing competition from digital-first healthcare providers. Today’s consumers expect faster, more convenient, and technology-enabled services. As a result, pharmacies are under increasing pressure to modernise operations and adopt digital health solutions to remain competitive and meet evolving patient needs.
Europe’s E-Pharmacy Market Growth At A Glance
The European e-pharmacy market is set for significant expansion, with projections indicating growth from €26 billion in 2023 to €69 billion by 2029. This represents a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.9% [1]. Driving this trend are factors such as improved internet access, the rollout of e-prescription mandates, and rising demand for the home delivery of medicines.
Meanwhile, the broader European retail pharmacy market is forecast to grow at a steady annual rate of 3.19% through to 2032 [2]. However, pharmacies continue to face mounting operational pressures, including managing increasing workloads with reduced staffing and navigating the challenges associated with digital integration.
About the Report
Medihive’s latest market research report, Digital Adoption in Retail Pharmacy: Challenges, Insights and Opportunities, offers a comprehensive overview of how pharmacies across Europe are approaching the adoption of digital technologies, and where th challenges with digital adoption lie.
The report features insights from pharmacists, pharmacy owners, managers, and technicians working in independent, chain, and public-sector pharmacies across various European countries.
Key Digital Adoption Insights
- Manual processes remain common for scheduling, staffing, and inventory management.
- Key pain points: staff shortages, inefficient workflows, and patient no-shows.
- Main barriers to digital transformation: lack of time, budget constraints, and resistance to change.
- While interest in expanding digital engagement and clinical services is high, a clear digital readiness gap remains.
[1] https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/europe-e-pharmacy-market-report-095600625.html
[2] https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/europe-retail-pharmacy-market
