Community pharmacy in Scotland has never stood still. But in 2026, the pace of change feels faster than ever.
Independent prescribing is expanding, Pharmacy First continues to evolve, pharmacies are taking on an increasingly clinical role, and new technologies are transforming everything from dispensing to patient care. At the same time, pharmacy teams continue to navigate financial pressures, workforce challenges and rising expectations from both patients and the NHS.
It means there’s one question many pharmacy professionals are asking:
What’s next?
For many, the answer begins with coming together.
This September, pharmacy professionals from across Scotland will gather at the Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show to share ideas, discover innovations, hear from industry experts and explore the opportunities shaping the future of community pharmacy.
Taking place on 15th and 16th September at the Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, Grangemouth, the two day event has become one of the most important dates in Scotland’s pharmacy calendar. Bringing together community pharmacy teams, suppliers, manufacturers and sector leaders, it offers an opportunity to step away from the day to day demands of pharmacy and focus on what comes next for the profession.
Why this year’s show matters
Community pharmacy continues to evolve at an incredible pace.
Patients are increasingly looking to their local pharmacy as the first point of contact for healthcare advice. Clinical services continue to expand, digital technology is changing the way pharmacies operate and businesses are continually adapting to meet changing patient needs while remaining commercially sustainable.
No single pharmacy has all the answers, which is why opportunities to learn from one another have never been more valuable.
The Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show provides exactly that opportunity.
Over two days, visitors can explore new ideas, speak directly with suppliers, hear from influential voices within the profession and discover practical solutions that can be implemented back in their own pharmacies.
Whether you’re an independent contractor, part of a multiple, a pharmacy technician, dispensing assistant, counter team member, student or pharmacy owner, the event has been designed to provide valuable insights for every role within the profession.
More than just an exhibition
While the exhibition remains at the heart of the event, the Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show offers far more than an opportunity to browse exhibition stands.
Visitors will be able to explore the latest developments in pharmacy technology, automation, retail solutions, digital services, OTC products and clinical innovations, while speaking directly to the companies helping shape the future of community pharmacy.
Alongside the exhibition, a comprehensive speaker programme will give delegates the opportunity to hear from respected speakers discussing many of the issues currently facing Scottish pharmacy. From the future of clinical services and independent prescribing to business growth, workforce development and retail innovation, the programme has been designed to provide practical learning that attendees can take straight back into practice.
One of the great benefits of this year’s event is its flexibility. With the same exhibitors exhibiting across both days, there’s no pressure to commit to the full two day programme. Whether you can spare a couple of hours, half a day or want to make the most of both days, you can attend in a way that suits your schedule and still experience everything the exhibition has to offer. It’s designed to fit around the realities of working in community pharmacy, making it easier than ever to take time out, discover new ideas and return to your pharmacy with fresh inspiration.
The show is also an opportunity to discover products and services that can improve patient care, streamline pharmacy operations and create new opportunities for business growth.
Building connections that last
One of the greatest strengths of community pharmacy has always been its willingness to share knowledge.
Some of the most valuable ideas don’t come from presentations or product demonstrations. They come from conversations with colleagues who have faced similar challenges, introduced successful new services or found innovative ways to improve patient care.
That spirit of collaboration is one of the reasons the Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show continues to attract pharmacy professionals from across the country.
The networking doesn’t stop when the exhibition closes for the day. On the evening of Wednesday 16th September, attendees are invited to continue those conversations at the Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show Social Dinner.
Bringing together pharmacy professionals, exhibitors and industry partners in a relaxed setting, the dinner offers the perfect opportunity to catch up with colleagues, make new connections and discuss the ideas sparked throughout the day. Whether you’re attending with your team or coming along on your own, it’s a chance to strengthen relationships and enjoy an evening with others who share a passion for community pharmacy.
After all, some of the most valuable conversations don’t happen in the seminar theatre or on the exhibition floor. They happen over dinner, where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed and lasting professional relationships begin.
Looking ahead
The Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show isn’t simply about showcasing the latest products or technologies. It’s about bringing the profession together at a time when community pharmacy continues to evolve.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical business ideas, clinical updates, new suppliers, retail ideas or simply the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, the event promises something for every member of the pharmacy team.
If you’re passionate about the future of community pharmacy, make sure 15th and 16th September are already in your diary.
Registration for the Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show is free for pharmacy professionals, with places also available for the Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show Social Dinner on Wednesday evening.
Planning your visit
The Scottish Pharmacy Trade & Retail Show takes place on 15th & 16th September 2026 at the Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, Grangemouth.
- Free entry for pharmacy professionals
- Attend for a couple of hours, half a day or both days
- Speaker sessions across both days
- Social Dinner on Wednesday evening, booking required
