Market Growth and Key Categories
The retail pharmacy sector in Mexico is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 6.5% over the next three years, with sales expected to rise from $9.6 billion in 2025 to $11,586 million by 2028, according to a study by RX Mexico and Euromonitor.
The leading categories in the market are over-the-counter (OTC) medications, generating $2.968 billion in sales, followed by vitamins and dietary supplements with $2.668 billion, and herbal and traditional products with $1.170 billion.
- The weight management and wellness segment is expected to reach $823 million in sales, while sports nutrition is projected to hit $807 million.
- Pediatrics will account for $358 million, and allergies $56 million.
Regional Distribution of Pharmacies
Mexico has a total of 65,105 pharmacies, with over 74% (more than 48,000) operating under individual licenses and not being part of large chains or corporations.
More than 60% of these businesses are concentrated in the Central and Bajío regions, with 26,796 and 13,255 pharmacies respectively.
The states with the most pharmacies are the Capital City of Mexico and the State of Mexico, totaling 18,217 pharmacies, which represent 30% nationally. Jalisco has 4,667 establishments.
Digital Transformation and Opportunities
Eleonora García, Director of Expo FAC at RX Mexico, explained that the retail pharmacy market faces challenges not only in technology but also in logistics and knowledge.
While many pharmacies can use digital tools like WhatsApp for orders, the critical aspect is how they efficiently respond to provide better customer service.
“Not only is the challenge the use of technology, but it’s also a logistics and distribution challenge. These new trends should not only be advantageous but also help pharmacies thrive,” Eleonora García stated.
García also highlighted that another opportunity for improvement in Mexican pharmacies is having staff with more technical knowledge, acting as certified dispensaries rather than just dispensing medications.
Expo FAC: A Platform for Business Connections
Given the significance of this market segment, Expo FAC brings together pharmacy and personal care suppliers, facilitating business meetings.
- In its second edition last year in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Expo FAC generated an economic impact of 22 million pesos and facilitated over 300 business meetings, totaling approximately 400 million pesos.
- This year’s event in the same city anticipates around 3,000 attendees and the participation of 70 brands.
- The expectation is that 79% of exhibitors will establish at least one commercial alliance.
“Expo FAC is a strategic meeting point for the retail pharmacy sector, where alliances are built, solutions presented, and conversations initiated that shape the direction of an essential industry for Mexicans’ well-being. Remember that 14.4% of spending is allocated to personal care items, reflecting the relevance and potential of this sector in Mexico,” Eleonora García emphasized.
