The OTC (over-the-counter) medicines market has grown: in 2014, it grew 10% in value compared to 2013. Brazilians who buy products in pharmacies/drugstores prioritize location and price when deciding where to shop. Sales of vitamins and minerals had growth of 12% in the same period. The increasing interest of younger consumers in the category is contributing to sales growth.

Different tools can be used to help customers to better monitor and manage their health, and retailers should provide enhanced services to help clients, especially kiosks for self-screening, as these are highly sought after. Such services can provide value, and extend services to consumers besides offering lower prices and promotions.

Location, low price and special offers play an important role in attracting more consumers to pharmacies/drugstores as well as a wide range of products available and 24 hour services.

This report covers the pharmacy retailing market in Brazil.

Market size is based on sales of OTC medicines in all retail channels, including direct sales to consumers. This includes:

• Analgesics (painkillers) and antipyretic drugs (to prevent or reduce fever)

• Anti-cough/cold/flu products: decongestants and flu medicine

• Dermatological products: skincare products, dermatological creams and antipsorics (anti-skin irritation)

• Gastrointestinal products: antinauseants/stomach and diarrhea/laxative medicines

• Vitamins and minerals (not including supplements)

In addition, other products commonly sold in pharmacy retailers were included in the consumer research, but are not in the market data:

• Health devices (eg inhalers, humidifiers)

• Ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages (eg juice, water, isotonic drinks)

• Confectionery

• Children’s products other than medicines (eg diapers, children’s hygiene products)

• Beauty products (eg makeup)

• Sunscreen lotion

• Personal hygiene products (eg shampoo, soap, deodorant)

• Prescription medicines