TAMPA, Fla. — Benzer Pharmacy has opened its first franchised pharmacy location in Oklahoma.

The drug chain said Friday that the new store, at 219 Dewey Ave. in Poteau, Oklahoma, also marks the debut of the Benzer Pharmacy brand in the state.

Overall, Benzer now has more than 60 pharmacy locations, including Tennessee, Florida, Michigan, Virginia, North Carolina, Texas, Georgia, Nevada, Louisiana and Oklahoma.

Benzer introduced its franchise model earlier this year as a way to propel growth by providing independent pharmacies with a platform to leverage a multi-regional brand.

“Benzer Pharmacy franchisees will instantly receive the credibility and recognition of a large national brand, reduced cost of goods and expenses, full access to expert HR, marketing, accounting, compliance and operational support, cutting-edge business coaching to optimize all the key areas of operations, and access to the full spectrum of specialty medications,” according to Binita Patel, franchise development manager for Benzer.

Along with full retail pharmacy services, Benzer pharmacies focus on specialty drugs and medication management programs for people with complex chronic diseases, including hepatitis, HIV, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, dermatological conditions and gastrointestinal disorders.

On Thursday, Benzer also announced the opening of a new store in Bradenton, Fla. The pharmacy chain noted that the new location is strategically situated near a hospital and hundreds of doctor’s offices.

“Benzer Pharmacy is extremely proud to expand its services in Manatee County, giving residents convenient access to health services,” commented John Cox, pharmacy operations manager at the new Benzer pharmacy.