Surviving Tough Times: Strategies for Pharmacy Management in 2026

In the face of intensifying competition and a declining population, managing a pharmacy today poses significant challenges. Strike Co., a leading M&A brokerage based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is hosting a free online seminar entitled "Surviving Tough Times: Strategies for Pharmacy Management" on March 11, 2026. This seminar aims to provide pharmacy owners and stakeholders with practical insights to navigate the complex market landscape.

With about 60,000 pharmacies competing in a space that already exceeds convenience stores, the dynamics of the pharmacy industry have transformed drastically. Regulatory reforms and reimbursement revisions have made the operational environment even more challenging. As a result, pharmacy management must evolve from being location-dependent and focused primarily on prescriptions to becoming 'patient-choosing' organizations. This transition includes enhancing the functions of community pharmacies, integrating home-based dispensing, online medication guidance, and promoting self-medication support.

The seminar will feature Yuya Iijima, CEO and pharmacist at Iijima Pharmacy, known for its advanced model in community-centric pharmacy operations. Iijima has been instrumental in implementing practices that improve patient care while maintaining a relationship with the community. With his background and experience, he will share effective management strategies that align with the growing expectations of both patients and regulatory authorities.

Seminar Details

- Name: Surviving Tough Times: Strategies for Pharmacy Management
- Date: March 11, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Format: Webinar (Live Online)
- Cost: Free of charge
- Target Audience: Pharmacy owners and stakeholders (Note: Participants from competing firms are requested to refrain from joining).
- Registration Deadline: March 10, 2026, by noon

Those interested can register via the official seminar page. Once registered, participants will receive a viewing link via email.

Presenter Profile

Yuya Iijima is a graduate of Tohoku Pharmaceutical University and joined Iijima Pharmacy in 2006, becoming CEO in 2015. Renowned for his dedication to community-focused pharmacy practices, Iijima actively works on several initiatives aimed at enhancing pharmacy functions, including serving as an advisor for various national projects related to pharmacy management. He is involved in the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's committee focusing on strengthening pharmacy functions and serves on several advisory boards, including the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency.

Overall, this seminar presents a unique opportunity for pharmacy professionals to learn from an industry leader and share experiences that can help navigate the current marketplace challenges.

Main Organizer

Strike Co.

- Location: Otemachi 1-2-1, 15th Floor, Mitsui & Co. Building, Chiyoda, Tokyo
- CEO: Kunihiko Arai
- Established: July 1997
- Business: M&A support
- Contact: 03-6848-0101
- Website: Strike Co.

As Strike transitions to a holding company structure under Strike Group in April 2026, this event marks an essential step towards fostering a collaborative healthcare environment that focuses on patient care and pharmacy sustainability.