Beauty and health retailer Superdrug has increased pay for newly qualified pharmacists, which will result in their wages rising to at least £50,000.
According to Superdrug, this raise was implemented to ensure all of its pharmacists continue to receive a strong renumeration package. There are currently 155 pharmacists working for the employer, with an average length of service of seven years.
The retailer, which is recruiting for 200 roles, also enhanced its employee benefits by introducing a new financial wellbeing package to combat the rising cost of living, and more mental health support for its managers.
Caris Newson, healthcare director at Superdrug, said: “Our pharmacy team members are at the core of our business, and I am delighted to announce this increase in newly qualified salary in recognition of the skill and expertise required for these roles.
“The last few years have been extremely challenging for pharmacists and pharmacy teams and have also highlighted the vital and positive role that they play as clinical professionals, supporting patients and delivering safe and effective healthcare services and care within communities.”
Amy Davies, people director at Superdrug, added: “We are delighted to be strengthening our pharmacy offering. There’s a reason Superdrug is consistently considered to be one of the best employers to work for and I’m confident we offer the strongest package, benefits, and perks to both attract and retain healthcare colleagues.”
Superdrug has also introduced the newly created role of pharmacy team leader to selected stores, in order to offer a clear line of progression for pharmacy dispensers and technicians who want to do more in their career. It appointed two new heads of pharmacy operations to drive and improve its pharmacy performance to offer the best possible care.