Australian pharmacy giant Chemist Warehouse has officially launched its first store in the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant milestone for the company. The new 1,000-square-metre superstore in Dubai joins Chemist Warehouse’s global network of over 530 stores in Australia, 53 in New Zealand, 12 in China, and 11 in Ireland, continuing its mission to offer world-renowned health and beauty brands at everyday low prices.
Located at Al Ghurair Centre, Al Rigga Road, the Dubai store offers pharmacy dispensary services alongside a wide selection of Australian and local products across categories including health, wellness, beauty, baby, cosmetics, and fragrance. Shoppers can also enjoy a luxurious experience with high-end fragrances and cosmetics available and the store is open seven days a week from 8am to midnight.
“We are proud to have officially landed in Dubai and celebrate our first store opening in the UAE,” said Chemist Warehouse Director Mario Tascone. “With our ‘one-stop shop’ model and larger retail format, we’re excited to welcome customers and deliver a wide range of high-quality products at affordable prices. And watch this space—store number two is just weeks away!”
In addition to its international expansion, Chemist Warehouse is set to roll out a new QR code payment system across its Australian stores by early 2025, aiming to reduce the hefty transaction fees associated with traditional card payments. With cash payments continuing to decline, the discount pharmacy giant is exploring ways to cut costs as it currently spends a staggering $15 million annually on digital payment fees.
The new system will allow customers to pay via QR code at checkout, linking directly to their bank accounts for a seamless transfer-like transaction. While this shift is expected to significantly lower costs for the retailer, it won’t affect prices for shoppers, who will still have the option to pay with their phone, watch, card, or cash.
“Because we are a discounter and work on low margins, these transaction costs represent a big part of our potential profit,” Chemist Warehouse Chairman Jack Gance told The Australian Financial Review.
This cost-saving measure is expected to streamline payments while offering customers more flexible options at the checkout, without compromising on convenience.
Read the current issue of our digital magazine below:
- For more news and updates, subscribe to our weekly newsletter
- Follow us on Instagram
- Like us on Facebook
- Connect with us on LinkedIn