UPDATE: Former Jhoots Pharmacies in North Devon are set to reopen within days under new ownership, bringing relief after months of prescription shortages and staff payment issues. The announcement comes from Ian Roome, MP for North Devon, who met with Allied Pharmacies’ managing director on November 13, 2023.
These developments signal a turnaround for the troubled pharmacy chain, which has faced significant operational challenges. Allied Pharmacies has purchased 60 Jhoots branches, including those in Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, and Braunton, and is preparing to resume services shortly.
Patients in the region have been deeply affected by the recent disruptions. Many have expressed frustration over the inability to access vital prescriptions as stores were left empty due to unpaid suppliers. This crisis has left staff in distress, some reporting they were not compensated since July and were threatened with dismissal for not showing up to work in vacant stores.
“Allied Pharmacies stepping in to take over the former Jhoots branches is really welcome news for North Devon,” said MP Ian Roome. “They have also assured me that they are preparing to resolve the back-pay of Jhoots pharmacy staff who have not been paid, which is absolutely vital.”
The takeover marks a significant step toward stabilizing local pharmacy services. Allied Pharmacies has pledged to address outstanding payments to staff within five working days. This commitment was reaffirmed in Roome’s recent discussions with the new management.
Local officials are optimistic about the future. Graham Bell, a county councillor from Braunton, described the acquisition as “fantastic news.” He noted the overwhelming concerns voiced by residents over the pharmacy closures and praised the dedication of pharmacy staff in maintaining essential services during this tumultuous period.
“The closure of so many pharmacies would be unthinkable, especially as we enter the winter season,” Bell emphasized. “Thankfully, Allied stepped in. We need to ensure our pharmacy network is sustainable to prevent future crises.”
As North Devon braces for the reopening of its pharmacies, the community hopes for a swift return to normalcy, easing the burden on patients and healthcare providers alike. Local leaders are urging continuous dialogue to safeguard against future disruptions in pharmacy services.
For residents and patients, this announcement brings new hope as they await the full restoration of their vital pharmacy services. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
