United Drug

Founded in 1948 in Ballina, Ireland by a group of pharmacists, United Drugs is a wholesaler specialised in supplying personal care and healthcare products to over 1800 clients. The business was acquired by McKesson in 2016.

United Drug was created by a group of pharmacists. United Drug clients include department stores and pharmacies. The firm also distributes to hospitals.

In 1950, United Drug came to an agreement with one of its UK suppliers, Pfizer, to provide it with products directly.

After acquiring the company Ayrton Saunders United Drug became a national distributor.

In 1986, United Drug became the first company in Ireland to offer overnight service to pharmacists.

By 1989, United Drug was listed on the Irish Stock Exchange. During that same year the company formed a joint venture with Alliance Healthcare.

After acquiring the company Sangers in 1992, United Drug was able to distribute all over Ireland.

In 1999, the business partnered with Dublin Drugs. This partnership allowed United Drug to become the leading Irish wholesaler providing healthcare and personal care products.

United Drug achieved a turnover of €1298.5 million in 2019 and employs 8700 people.

In the personal care category, United Drug offers products such as cosmetics and fragrances.

The business has a division which is assigned to find new information to provide to the firm’s suppliers.

United Drug also handles the distribution of products and manages its own warehouse of 300000 sq.ft.

United Drug has invested € 40 million in technology and innovation in 2017 in order to increase its distribution capacity. For instance, the warehouse has been upgraded.

The group is concerned about the environment and has participated in the Carbon Disclosure Project. United Drug has reduced its carbon emission by 18% since 2008.

The company has also been supporting various community projects as well as charities. United Drug has not only been providing financial help but its employees are also assisting in projects for the community.