5 Merchandising Ideas for Over-the-Counter Pharmacy Products

While dispensing prescriptions will always be the bread and butter of pharmacies, there are tremendous upsides to successfully selling over-the-counter medicines and other wellness goods. By creating an engaging, patient-friendly shopping experience, you can boost OTC sales and boost convenience for patients looking to make your pharmacy a one-stop shop. 

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Let’s explore five merchandising strategies to help your pharmacy stand out.

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Organize OTCs by Ailment

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Help patients find what they need quickly by grouping OTC products by health concerns, such as "Cold & Flu," "Pain Relief," or "Digestive Health."

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Use clear, eye-catching signage to guide shoppers. This approach not only enhances the patient experience but also encourages cross-selling opportunities.

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Create Seasonal Displays

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Stay relevant by adapting your displays to match the season. For instance:

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• Winter: Highlight cough syrups, nasal sprays, and hand sanitizers
• Spring: Promote allergy medications and sunscreen
• Summer: Showcase insect repellents, first-aid kits, and travel-sized essentials. Strategic seasonal displays can inspire impulse purchases and remind patients to stock up on essentials.
• Autumn: Make it easy for patients to get back to school health essentials like first aid kits, vitamins, and other wellness products

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Feature Local and Niche Products

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Differentiate your pharmacy by offering products from local vendors or niche brands. 

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For example, stocking niche vitamins, natural remedies, or locally made skincare items can attract patients who value community support and personalized options.

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Utilize Endcaps Effectively

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Endcaps — which are the prime shelf space at the ends of aisles — are perfect for spotlighting promotions, new products, or themed bundles. Rotate these displays frequently to keep the shopping experience fresh and encourage repeat visits. Highlighting limited-time offers here can also create urgency.

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Incorporate Interactive Elements

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Engage your patients with interactive merchandising. Consider:

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• Digital Screens: Play educational videos or product demonstrations
• Sampling Stations: Allow patients to try items like hand creams or vitamins
• Health Kiosks: Offer blood pressure or BMI checks near related products. These features can enhance the patient experience and position your pharmacy as a wellness destination.

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By adopting these merchandising techniques, you can create a shopping environment that is both functional and appealing. A thoughtful approach to product presentation not only drives sales but also helps build trust and loyalty among your patients. 

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Take the time to experiment with these ideas and tailor them to your community’s needs — your efforts will pay off! If you’d like to learn how Nimble can free up more time in your day to invest in merchandising strategy, speak to a member of our team, today.