INDUSTRY stalwart, and founder of the Cincotta Discount Chemist chain of pharmacies, Albert Cincotta (pictured), 93, passed away recently.
The Cincotta Discount Chemist family is "deeply saddened as he was the inspiration behind the Cincotta Discount Chemist brand and his legacy will continue to live through the store teams into the future".
A statement shared that Cincotta had "many friends throughout the network and was widely respected across the pharmacy industry".
"With a commitment to outstanding customer service and affordable prescription prices, Cincotta adopted a motto of 'Famous for Value, Famous for Care' and is considered the pioneer of discount pharmacy in Australia, opening his first pharmacy in 1951 in the western Sydney suburb of Merrylands.
"It was his passion for providing value for money and superior care that led to the Merrylands pharmacy becoming an institution in Greater Sydney."
During the 1960s, Cincotta first recognised the strong need for customers to obtain medicines after normal business hours.
The statement added that "passionate about serving the community, Cincotta fought through the courts until he won the right to offer after-hours trading".
The late-night trading hours combined with heavy discounting created a customer-focused and patient-first discount pharmacy.
"We are committed to continuing the strong heritage that Albert created," said CEO Mario Capanna.
"I know everyone in our industry will join me in passing on our sincere condolences to his wife Mary, his children Joseph and Marianne and the wider Cincotta family at this sad time."
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 20 Jul 23
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