Buying, Selling, or Transferring a Pharmacy?
Let Us Take the Stress Out of the Process, So You Can Focus on What Really Matters—Your Business and Your Life
What Makes PRS Different?
At PRS Pharmacy Services, we’re pharmacist-owned and operated—which means we know firsthand what it takes to buy, sell, transfer, or start a pharmacy. Our experts aren’t just brokers; they’re licensed pharmacists who have owned and operated pharmacies themselves.
Since 1982, we’ve opened, sold, and transferred over 500 independent pharmacies, guiding owners through every step of the process. We’re also the only broker recommended by NCPA, FPN, and more than 20 buying groups representing over 15,000 pharmacies. Whether you’re just exploring opportunities or ready to close the deal, we’re here to help you do it right.
99%
Pharmacies Sold within Valuation Range
+$20 Million
Pharmacies Sold
+500
Pharmacies Sold, Opened or Transitioned
Our Team Consists of Pharmacists and Pharmacy Owners with Decades of Experience
Brokerage Services
Buy a Pharmacy
Owning an independent pharmacy is more than a career move—it’s a chance to take control of your future and build a profitable business. Whether you’re exploring opportunities or ready to close the deal, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Selling Your Pharmacy
We specialize in helping independent pharmacists sell their pharmacies quickly, discreetly, and profitably. Since 1982, we’ve helped hundreds of pharmacy owners successfully transition to the next phase of their lives—and we’re here to do the same for you.
Pharmacy Valuations
Pharmacy valuations are important whether you are selling your pharmacy or looking to buy a pharmacy. Our pharmacy valuation services will give you exactly what you need: a REAL number both you and a potential buyer can actually use.
Pharmacy Location Feasibility Studies
Choosing the right location for your pharmacy is not just a decision—it’s a foundation for future success. At PRS Pharmacy Services, our Site Feasibility Study is designed to help you make informed, confident decisions about opening a new pharmacy.
Are You Ready for Pharmacy Ownership?
PRS Pharmacy Services is here to help you every step of the way—from funding to feasibility to ownership. Let’s turn your dream into a reality.
Opening a Startup Pharmacy
Opening an independent pharmacy is a dream for many pharmacists, but let’s face it – the process can feel overwhelming. From navigating regulations to designing the perfect layout, it’s easy to feel lost in the details. That’s where PRS Pharmacy Services comes in.
Pharmacy Ownership Services
Pharmacies For Sale
Find your pharmacy today.
Owning an independent pharmacy is more than just a business—it's a way to make a difference in your community while building your financial future. Browse our listings and let's find the right pharmacy for you.
Pharmacy Transfer Consulting
Need Help Transferring Your Pharmacy?
Our pharmacy transfer consultants have the expertise to make the process smooth and stress-free.
Rx Check-Up™
Unlock Your Pharmacy's Full Potential with an Rx Check-Up™
The comprehensive pharmacy performance evaluation designed to help you succeed.
“During our pharmacy acquisition, PRS was a valued partner. Scott and Deb were always available to assist with the transition and answer any questions along the way. They provided a level of confidence knowing we had a partner who was experienced with State/Federal laws, rules, and regulations in regards to the acquisition of our pharmacy.”
- Eric
Get a FREE Consultation Today!
Connect with our team today.
Call us at 800-338-3688 to find out how we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
BroKERAGE
What is included in the PRS Brokerage Services?
At PRS we pride ourselves on being a different kind of Pharmacy brokerage service and are endorsed by NCPA. We have programs for every situation and we are owned and operated by Pharmacists so we understand what it takes to succeed and the challenges most owners or potential owners are facing in today’s competitive market.
We PROMISE 100% confidentiality and will never share your information with anyone. You can view our signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) here.
Why is buying & selling Independent better than dealing with a chain?
- We know that it may seem easier to sell your Pharmacy to CVS, Walgreen’s or Rite Aid, but offers from chains are often contingent upon a certain number of the purchased scripts successfully retained by the chain. In addition, chains will not purchase any LTC, compounded, and/or medication adherence packaging prescriptions. Furthermore, if you own the building a chain will not purchase. This can seriously affect the amount you collect from the sale. Check out our blog post about selling to a chain titled “Selling to a Chain is the Easy Road to Big Bucks, Right. Not So Fast” for more information on why it’s better to stay independent.
- Independent Pharmacy is good for the community. When you keep your Pharmacy Independent, you are helping the overall health of your neighborhood. Check out our Blog post titled “4 Reasons To Support Independent Pharmacies” for more information on why Independent Pharmacies are better than chains.
What is the difference between an asset purchase and a stock purchase?
In a stock purchase the buyer purchases the seller’s share of the corporation’s stock directly, therefore obtaining ownership of the seller’s corporation. The Pharmacy operation remains with the same corporation and FEIN.
In an asset purchase, the seller retains possession of the corporation or LLC and the buyer’s corporation purchases individual assets of the company such as Rx files, equipment, inventory and goodwill.
For a more thorough breakdown, please schedule a consultation with one of our experts.
Are there any licensing and PBM considerations in a stock purchase?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a buyer does not have to address licensing and third-party contracting during a stock purchase. Each state Board of Pharmacy determines the definition of “Change of Ownership” differently. In addition, “Change of Ownership” notifications may need to be filed with all appropriate government licensing boards and PBM’s. The complicated rules and laws involving buying, selling, owning, or transferring a Pharmacy are why you should always hire a reputable company to guide you through the process. PRS is the exclusive NCPA endorsed broker.
How do I determine if my offer or asking price is fair?
Our Pharmacy Valuation Service can ensure that you are getting a fair and just price whether you are the buyer or the seller. You can rest assured that the results will be accurate and unbiased because our Pharmacy Valuations are conducted by a third-party.
BUY A PHARMACY
How much does it cost to open a pharmacy?
When it comes to figuring out how to open a pharmacy, this is likely the most common question we answer. That answer is that it depends. Typically most lending institutions require a loan for $600,000 which covers the initial start-up costs such as build out, furniture, fixtures, equipment and working capital until the pharmacy generates a positive cash flow. The cost can depend on whether you are starting from scratch or buying an existing established pharmacy. There are many options and PRS can help you determine which one is right for you.
Is it better to open a new pharmacy or purchase an existing one?
Once again, that answer depends on many factors, some of which can be subjective. If you purchase an existing store, the upfront costs will be more, but as long as you had a proper valuation done you will have revenue coming in the day you take over the new store. When you open a Pharmacy from scratch you may have less costs, but it could take 1-2 years for your pharmacy startup to start to operate in the black. PRS can help you determine what is best for your particular situation.
How long does it take to open a pharmacy startup?
The licensing and subsequent third-party enrollments vary per state. Typically you would need to allow 14 weeks following your pharmacy inspection until you were fully operational. View some of the ownership programs PRS offers to assist you with your pharmacy start-up.
What do I need to do if I am buying a pharmacy?
The first thing you need to do is have a Pharmacy Valuation performed to determine if the asking price is fair. Second, partner with professionals that have experience in due diligence, licensing, third-party contracting, letter of intent (LOI), purchase agreements and pharmacy operations to help ensure a smooth transition.
We PROMISE 100% confidentiality and will never share your information with anyone. You can view our signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) here.
What is the best way to determine if a site would be a good fit for a new pharmacy?
This is another fundamental question people wrestle with when figuring out how to open a pharmacy. PRS can conduct a site feasibility study to help you determine if your proposed location is a good choice. Our proprietary site feasibility software will generate a 2 year pro forma by looking at demographic data, traffic patterns and other information to determine the likelihood of a new pharmacy being successful at a given location.
What if I already have a Pharmacy location?
Yes! we can help! We can evaluate your prospective location with a Pharmacy Location Feasibility Study to determine if it is a good investment.
I already have a Pharmacy in mind to purchase. What are my next steps?
Our Pharmacy Transfer Consulting covers every detail, ensuring things such as third party, licensing and wholesaler agreements aren’t disrupted. We custom-tailor this service based on your specific needs.
SELLING Your pharmacy
If I am looking to sell my pharmacy what is the best way to start the process?
The best place to begin is by having a Pharmacy Valuation done to find out the value of your store and to know what you can expect from the market. Once this is complete, PRS can help you find the right buyer. We have qualified buyers throughout the country.
What is my pharmacy worth?
There are many factors that determine what a Pharmacy is worth. A Pharmacy Valuation can help determine the fair market value of your Pharmacy so you get what your Pharmacy is worth when selling or if you are buying you know you are making a good financial decision.
How do I value my pharmacy?
PRS’s Pharmacy valuation process was designed and perfected over 30 years by a PhD who is a nationally recognized Pharmacy valuation expert. Using his formulas combined with our vast experience in independent Pharmacy, we will accurately determine the fair market value of your Pharmacy. PRS’s Pharmacy Appraisals are so detailed and precise, buyers are able to use them when acquiring financing. For more information check out our blog: What not to do when valuing your Pharmacy.
Is a pharmacy valuation / appraisal really necessary?
Absolutely. The first step in the selling process is accurately determining the value of the Pharmacy. Additionally, Pharmacy valuations assist with estate planning, discovering where you can improve profitability and justifying the selling price to a buyer. A Pharmacy Valuation takes the Purchase Price from a level of personal opinion to rational analysis.
My wholesaler will sell my pharmacy for "FREE". Why should I pay a broker?
Wholesalers are interested in keeping the wholesale business, period. Getting you the best price for your Pharmacy is not a priority for them. The wholesaler Pharmacy appraisals we have seen are usually on the low side so the Pharmacy sells faster. Wholesalers typically only present to the seller potential buyers that currently have an account with that particular wholesaler eliminating about 75% of the potential buyers for their Pharmacy.
What about confidentiality? I do not want my wholesaler or buying group to know that I am selling my pharmacy?
We will not share your information with anyone without a signed Non-Disclosure Agreement. Even then, we have a process a buyer must go through to receive certain financial information and PRS will disqualify them as a potential buyer of your Pharmacy if they do not meet our strict criteria. Only serious, qualified buyers will see your information. You can view our signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) here.
How long does it take to sell a pharmacy?
It can take more than six months to sell a Pharmacy. Planning to sell your Pharmacy in less than 6 months is not realistic and is just dreaming and wishing. The most time-consuming items are acquiring the financing, especially an SBA loan, and the speed at which the attorneys and accountants prepare, review and send vital documents such as purchase agreements and financial records. If your financial records are not up to par, you should begin working on them immediately. You will need to continue to prepare updated statements throughout the process as the bank will keep requesting the latest financials as they do their due diligence in the lending process.
Why does it take six months or longer to sell my pharmacy? It seems like a long time. Another broker told me he could sell my pharmacy in 3-6 months.
Here is a quick look at the selling timeline to show why it takes more time:
- Pharmacy Valuation Process: 2-4 weeks
- Gather documents and prepare initial buyer marketing plan: 2-4 weeks
- Begin soliciting and screening buyers: 2-8 weeks
- Schedule store visits for qualified buyers: 2-4 weeks
- Ask for and review Letters of Intent from interested buyers: 2-4 weeks
- Accept a buyer offer and they begin the due diligence process: 6-8 weeks
- Once an offer is validated by the buyer, prepare and negotiate Purchase Agreement: 2-6 weeks
- Sign purchase agreement and begin final stages of acquiring funding: 4-12 weeks
- Loan approved, schedule and conduct closing: 4 weeks
- Sale complete
As you can see, three months is not realistic and certainly that timeline came from an inexperienced broker. Don’t get stranded with the wrong broker, call PRS.
Should I sell my pharmacy to a chain? Wouldn't it be less hassle?
If your Pharmacy is profitable and capable of attracting financing for the buyer, the best option is to find a private buyer, but do not be surprised if your broker tries to sell your Pharmacy to a chain. It is easy quick money for them but not usually the best thing for you. There are many downsides to selling your Pharmacy business to a chain. For most sellers, this should be the last resort. For more information, see our blog: Selling to a Chain is the Easy way to Big Bucks, Right. Not so Fast!
Will I have to owner finance for a potential buyer for my pharmacy?
Most Pharmacy purchase loans are via the SBA, which requires buyers to come up with 10% of the loan amount as an equity injection. At a minimum, the buyer must provide a 5% equity injection and the remaining percentage may be as a Seller’s note. This does not preclude additional seller’s note with a negotiated interest rate and pay back terms.
Why should I choose PRS to sell my pharmacy?
PRS is the ONLY Pharmacy broker endorsed by the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), the Federation of Pharmacy Networks (FPN) and over twenty-five Buying Groups, representing more than 15,000 independent Pharmacies. Why? Unlike some companies that claim to be brokerage experts who only began selling Pharmacies recently, we have spent the last 30+ years buying, selling, opening and transferring Pharmacies besides being Pharmacists and Pharmacy owners ourselves. To date, PRS has sold, transferred, or opened over 500 independent Pharmacies and has worked in most states. We are fully insured, licensed and accredited. We invite you to compare us to our competition and see for yourself why we are a different kind of broker.
Will an experiences pharmacist be involved in the sale of my pharmacy?
PRS will assign one of our licensed retail Pharmacists as your Project Manager. Each of our experts has at least 30 years of experience selling and opening retail Pharmacies. There are too many things that make Pharmacy brokerage unique and too many opportunities to make costly mistakes.
What is the difference between an asset purchase and a stock purchase when selling a pharmacy?
In a Pharmacy stock purchase, the buyer purchases the seller’s shares of the corporation’s stock, thereby obtaining ownership of the seller’s corporation. The Pharmacy operation keeps the same corporation entity and FEIN. In a Pharmacy asset purchase, the seller retains possession of the corporation and the buyer’s corporation purchases individual assets of the company such as Rx files, equipment, fixtures, inventory and goodwill. For a more thorough breakdown of asset and stock purchases and for help deciding which is best for your situation, please schedule a FREE consultation with one of our experts.
Consulting
My pharmacy is losing money and I do not know why?
Well, you are in the right place. PRS’s Rx Check-Up™ will look at your entire pharmacy operation to identify profitability issues and provide recommendations to help your entire pharmacy run more efficiently. We look at everything from P&L statements, personnel utilization, vendor agreements, payer reimbursements, inventory control and more. Contact us today. Waiting is costing you money.
Is my pharmacy as profitable as it could be?
PRS can do a bumper to bumper check-up of your current pharmacy operations to determine if your pharmacy is running as profitably and efficiently as possible. Our Rx Check-Up product is exactly what you need.
PRS IS AN ACCREDITED BUSINESS INTERMEDIARY