UK Pharmacies Face Potential Tsunami of Closures Amid Rising Costs

Pharmacies across the UK are facing a severe financial crisis, with estimates of an additional £310 million in costs due to rising National Insurance contributions, National Living Wage increases, and soaring business rates. The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has warned that nearly all pharmacies are struggling and many may have to cut services or close entirely if the government does not provide urgent funding. Over 1,200 pharmacies have closed since 2017, with closures disproportionately affecting deprived areas. Pharmacists like Ashley Cohen have resorted to loans to keep their businesses afloat, highlighting the unsustainable situation many face as funding has stagnated for years. The NPA is calling for immediate government action to prevent widespread closures, as 99.7% of pharmacies indicated readiness to take collective action if necessary. Without intervention, the accessibility of medicines and health advice could significantly diminish in the coming months.