Pharmacy

They have a take-charge approach and a lot of initiative.

Chambers UK
Life Sciences

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With a track record spanning over 25 years, our specialist pharmacy solicitors have the expertise to support clients through every stage in the life cycle of a pharmacy business. We are uniquely placed to advise on the broad range of issues affecting pharmacies today – from complex transactional requirements to regulatory matters.

Our dedicated, multi-disciplinary team, made up of lawyers from our corporate, commercial, real estate, employment, immigration and clinical negligence practices, provides legal advice to pharmacies of all sizes. At Penningtons Manches Cooper, we have the flexibility and breadth of understanding to advise major pharmacy chains through to independent operators with one pharmacy as well as individual practitioners. 

Whether you are looking to purchase a pharmacy or your business is threatened by the possible opening of a new contract, we will be able to tailor our services to your specific needs. If you are involved with judicial review proceedings or fitness to practise issues, our long history of acting on regulatory matters in the sector will mean that we can offer pragmatic assistance and representation. 

Our lawyers have advised on the acquisition and disposal of hundreds of pharmacies, often to very tight timescales. We know and understand the pressures of operating in a world of constantly evolving legislation and provide clear, commercial guidance relevant to the sector. In addition, our specialists have established strong relationships with banks, accountants and agents with significant experience of working with pharmacies who can deliver the necessary complementary support. 

In-house training for clients – both on commercial and regulatory issues - is an integral part of the services offered by our team of pharmacy lawyers.

We offer expert advice on:

  • setting up, including incorporation and choosing the right structure
  • funding or refinancing, whether from banks or other sources
  • new contract applications, appeals and contract defence
  • buying and selling assets or shares in pharmacy businesses, including split exchange and completion contracts
  • purchasing freehold property, granting new leases and lease renewals
  • all employee related matters
  • judicial review
  • defence of negligence claims
  • contracts with suppliers
  • Internet pharmacy terms and conditions
  • joint ventures with GPs

Recent work highlights

Multiple acquisitions for leading chain

Representing a private equity backed pharmacy chain on all its acquisitions, whether by share or asset purchase, including advising on acquisitions dependent on the relocation of NHS contracts, the granting of new leases and even the construction of new health centres.


Joint venture negotiations

Acting for the owner of an independent pharmacy on the termination of its existing joint venture arrangements, followed by the disposal of a majority interest in its share capital and the completion of an agreement with a new joint venture partner.

Related expertise

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC311575 and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under number 419867.

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP