[REVISION HISTORY]

Autofarma pharmacy chain closure and investigation

Updated 1 time since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-08-18 21:21 UTC → 2026-08-27 21:16 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The pharmacy chain Autofarma has announced the closure of its branches in Tierra del Fuego and Santa Cruz after nearly 60 years of operation. The company cited an unsustainable financial crisis caused by a prolonged period of non-payment for services rendered to the Fuegian State Social Work (OSEF). Autofarma stated that the lack of payment made it impossible to replenish stock or meet obligations to essential suppliers, forcing the company to divert inventory funds to cover urgent debts to workers and other creditors. The company rejected a settlement proposal from OSEF, calling on the Government of Tierra del Fuego to settle outstanding debts immediately. Subsequent reports indicated that the owners, Daniel and Rubén Llaneza, are reportedly under investigation by Federal Justice regarding alleged involvement in laundering funds through international structures and offshore businesses. The closure has triggered shifts in the regional pharmaceutical retail landscape. In response to the vacancy left by Autofarma, Grupo Prisma has announced plans to launch its own network of pharmacies and perfumeries across Santa Cruz, having already secured leases in Río Gallegos. The group is reportedly interviewing former Autofarma staff to absorb as many employees as possible into its new operations. Concurrently, Farmacias Patagónicas is expanding its regional presence with a new branch in Puerto Madryn.

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