Holland & Barret is trialling sales of over-the-counter medicines and health products in 20 of its stores.
The surprise nmove is designed to widen the retailer’s shopper appeal, while responding to accessibility issues with OTC medicines due to the loss of hundreds of community pharmacies in the last few years.
The Grocer reports that H&B’s initial branded OTC lines include leading name cough and cold formulas, children’s products, decongestants, skin treatments, antiseptics, antifungals, hay fever treatments and insect repellents.
A Holland & Barrett spokesperson said: “At Holland & Barrett we’re known for offering a wide range of innovative products to help our customers stay well, however, they’ve told us that sometimes they would like more immediate relief too. That’s why we’re trialling a selected range of medicines and healthcare products in around 20 stores, which is a range extension to give our customers more options to take control of their health and wellness.”
In September, the retailer relaunched its entire food range in a significant reposition for the 153-year-old business.
