Sigma hails ‘strong result’
April 17, 2013
Sigma Pharmaceuticals has
unveiled its vision for the future
of pharmacy, with the company’s
annual report detailing a strategy
which aims to “place the
pharmacist and their skills at the
heart of our business by refocusing
our efforts on professional
services”.
“Disease management and
interventions are the key pillars of
an integrated patient care model.
“By focusing on pharmacy and
professional services, Sigma will
attract likeminded pharmacy
partners who ultimately believe in
the welfare of their customers, and
this changing dynamic will generate
fundamental industry change”.
The company also revealed the
launch of its multi-channel platform
by the middle of this year, aiming to
gain greater market share through
opening new channels “that have
traditionally been reserved for brick
and mortar stores”.
CEO Mark Hooper attributed a
strong performance over the last
12 months to a reinvigorated retail
strategy, based on a Customer
Value Proposition “placing
pharmacists and consumers at
the centre of everything we do for
mutual benefit”.
The report also detailed the
full year profit of $18.7 million
- adversely affected by the
settlement of a shareholder class
action (PD 24 Oct 12).
“Excluding this, the strong
health of the underlying business
is reflected in the 4% rise in
underlying Net Profit After Tax,”
said chairman Brian Jamieson.
“The company’s transformation
program has delivered great
benefits and continues to drive
energy and enthusiasm across the
business,” he said.
The comments were echoed
by Hooper who cited a number
of highlights including the
appointment of brand ambassadors
Dr Cindy Pan for Guardian, and TV
personality Georgie Parker as the
new face of Amcal and Amcal Max.
He said Sigma had proudly
celebrated its 100 years of service
to community pharmacy, and also
introduced the ‘Shine Awards’ to
recognise its team members.
“Sigma will continue to pursue
improved returns built on the
significant investment undertaken
in key operational parts of
the business together with its
enhanced retail offer.
“This is notwithstanding the
broader difficulties facing the retail
sector and ongoing PBS reform,”
Hooper added.
MEANWHILE the report also
reveals that Sigma is investing in
the development of a number of
“pilot stores” across a range of
demographics, aiming to ensure its
brands continue to be relevant in
their local communities.
It also detailed the remuneration
of senior executives, including
a $1.8 million package received
by Hooper, $659,000 for Chief
Operating Officer Gary Dunne,
and $645,000 for Jeff Sells, Chief
Financial Officer.
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