BRANSON, Mo. — Sav-Mor Pharmacy Services was honored to host the Southern Drug Store Association (SDSA) Annual Meeting at the beautiful Big Cedar Lodge in Branson, Missouri. This year’s gathering brought together representatives from 10 regional pharmacy chains to engage in meaningful dialogue on the most pressing issues facing retail pharmacy today.
Attendees included leadership from: Hartig Drug, Auburn Pharmacy, Hi-School Pharmacy, Lewis Drug, Fruth Pharmacy, Osborn Drug, 986 Pharmacy, and HomeTown Pharmacy (MI). Also present were Joseph “JP” Poling, President/COO of Good Day Pharmacy, and Ronna Hauser, Senior Vice President for Policy and Pharmacy Affairs at the National Community Pharmacists Association.
The event was sponsored by Cardinal Health, Centor, Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Co., and Dexcom.
Industry Insight & Collaboration
The agenda featured presentations from each attending chain, covering a wide range of topics — from pharmacy operations and reimbursement challenges to cybersecurity and the adaptation of AI in pharmacy. This “best-practice-sharing” format encouraged open discussion and problem-solving among peers, reinforcing SDSA’s mission of collaboration and mutual growth.
Networking & Recreation
While professional discussions took center stage, attendees also enjoyed time for recreation and connection. Activities included golf at Payne’s Valley, tours of the famous Big Cedar caves, and relaxation at the spa — offering a perfect balance of work and leisure.
Member Reflections
Gregg Bollinger, Senior Channel Director at Dexcom, said: “My first year at Southern Drug was awesome. The meetings and opportunity to present to SDSA members were incredible — I can’t wait to return in 2026.”
Bill Ladwig of Lewis Drug echoed the sentiment:“The people are the ones that make the meeting worthwhile. Without the amazing folks willing to share their successes and failures, these meetings wouldn’t be what they are.”
Passing the Torch
In a cherished SDSA tradition, Anthony Codrean passed the historic napkin — bearing the signatures of over 26 former host chains — to Mike Burns of Auburn Pharmacy, who will serve as host for next year’s meeting.
