PCD Pharma or Pharma Franchise Distributors
Two popular pharma distribution systems, PCD Pharma and Pharma Franchise Distributors, are the pharmaceutical distributorships to keep up with the demand of the pharmaceutical industry. While both types of distributors help to market and sell pharmaceutical products, there are some key differences between them. Here we will discuss the differences, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the right distributorship for your pharma business.
What is PCD Pharma?
PCD stands for Propaganda Cum Distribution. In this kind of pharma business, a pharmaceutical company gives sales rights to a distributor for a specific area. The distributor is responsible for marketing and selling the company’s products in that area.
Benefits of PCD Pharma
- Limited Investment: Distributors don’t need to invest much money to start. As they work by providing distributorship, they do not have to invest in infrastructure everywhere or establish a distribution network. The manufacturer provides the products, and the pharma distributor takes care of the marketing and distribution.
- Marketing Freedom: Distributors can create their own marketing strategies.
- No Sales Targets: Usually, there are no strict sales goals to meet.
Advantages of PCD Pharma
- Easy to start
- Low business failures
- Flexibility in working. They are not bound by any legal agreement, which means they can promote and sell products manufactured from multiple manufacturers. This makes them an ideal choice for small and medium-sized manufacturers who do not have a large distribution network.
Disadvantages of PCD Pharma
- Limited product range
- Less control over company’s image
- Potential for unstable income
How PCD Pharma Works?
- PCD pharma distributor works independently. They operate as independent entities and have more flexibility in terms of product selection and pricing. They are also responsible for maintaining their own stock and inventory.
- Can set their own prices (within prescribed limits)
- They are responsible for their own marketing and sales.
Target Markets of PCD Pharma
PCD pharma often targets smaller towns and rural areas.
What is Pharma Franchise?
A Pharma Franchise is when a big pharma company (franchisor) allows another person or company (franchisee) to use its brand name and sell its products.
Benefits of Pharma Franchise
Brand Association: Franchisees benefit from the established company’s market value.
Large Product Range: Access to a larger variety of medicines.
Gets Marketing Promotion Materials: Often receive marketing materials and guidance from the franchisor.
Advantages of Pharma Franchise
- Franchisee works with a well-known company name.
- Complete support from the franchisor.
- Franchisee can gain higher profits. They have the exclusive monopoly rights to promote and sell their products in a particular region. This gives them an edge over their competitors and can lead to a higher profit margin.
Disadvantages of Pharma Franchise
- Franchisee can have higher initial investment
- Less operational freedom
- Franchisee may have sales targets to meet
How Pharma Franchise Works?
- Franchisee follows franchisor’s guidelines. The franchisee operates as an extension of the franchisor pharmaceutical company and follows their guidelines and policies. They focus on a specific working area and target doctors, hospitals and pharmacies to promote and sell their products. They have their own sales team or use medical representatives for marketing purposes.
- Prices are set by the franchisor.
- Marketing strategies are usually given by the company franchisor.
Target Markets of Pharma Franchise
Pharma Franchise can operate in both urban and rural markets, depending on the franchisor’s strategy.
How to Choose between PCD Pharma and Pharma Franchise?
Here are some steps to help you make the right choice:
- Understand How They Work: Review both PCD Pharma Distributors and Pharma Franchise Distributors. Understand the differences between PCD Pharma and Pharma Franchise Distributors, understand how they work, their advantages and disadvantages, and the cost involved in setting up the business.
- Calculate Your Investment Capabilities: Evaluate your business with respect to your working area, product range and investment capabilities.
- Talk to Industry Experts: Talk to industry experts, including manufacturers, distributors and medical professionals, to get a better understanding of the market and the distribution models that work best in your region.
Conclusion
Both PCD Pharma and Pharma Franchise Distributors help in expanding reach of medicines to different areas, creating job opportunities, increasing competition, which can lead to better prices for consumers.
Consider the factors mentioned in this article, choose the right distribution model for your business and hold a strong marketing and distribution network.