Pharmacy retail shifts in Patagonia as Autofarma closes

The pharmaceutical retail landscape in southern Argentina is undergoing significant changes. The long-standing pharmacy chain Autofarma, owned by the Llaneza brothers, has ceased operations after nearly sixty years due to unsustainable financial conditions. The company cited difficulties in restocking and unpaid obligations to providers and the Obra Social del Estado Fueguino (OSEF) as contributing factors to its closure.

In response to this vacancy, Grupo Prisma has announced plans to launch its own network of pharmacies, perfumeries, and related businesses across Santa Cruz. The group has already secured leases for several locations in Río Gallegos and other parts of the province. Additionally, Grupo Prisma is interviewing former Autofarma staff with the intention of absorbing as many employees as possible into its new operations.

Meanwhile, Farmacias Patagónicas continues to expand its regional presence with the opening of a new 340-square-meter branch in Puerto Madryn. The new location includes 555 square meters of exclusive parking and aims to integrate digital services, such as WhatsApp prescription handling and e-commerce, to support the community.