A family-run business in Armagh has bought its third pharmacy with the help of a six-figure investment from Ulster Bank.

The Hunter family recently acquired Parkes Pharmacy in Gilford, Craigavon, having previously opened Eden Pharmacy and Richhill Pharmacy in the mid-90s. The new site will take the business’s staff headcount to 25 and will increase its prescription dispensing capacity by more than half, the family said.

Second-generation pharmacist Matthew Hunter, who will run the new site, said: “This is a community we know well. We have very strong relationships with our service users and with healthcare providers throughout the Craigavon area.

“When the opportunity came up to purchase Parkes Pharmacy we saw this as a chance to extend our reach and to ensure the local community continues to have access to safe and reliable over the counter services.”

Ulster Bank senior relationship manager Danny McGivern commented: “Eden and Richhill pharmacies have provided a vital community service for decades now and that longevity is a reflection of the dedication and quality of care delivered by the Hunter family. 

“This acquisition will secure access to important healthcare advice and treatments for thousands of service users, and we’re very pleased to have provided the funding facilities to make that available.”