German pharmacies stage nationwide strike to demand policy reforms
Berlin – Momentum is building for the nationwide day of protest on March 23, as pharmacy owners across Germany ramp up efforts to mobilize participation. In Hamburg, the Adler Pharmacy plans not only to close its doors that day but to go further. "We'll set up an information stand outside," says owner Heike Gnekow. "We won't just leave our customers standing in front of a locked pharmacy."
The success of the protest hinges on widespread participation from owners and their teams. Many say they look to neighboring pharmacies for cues—when larger chains close, smaller independent shops often follow suit, according to several owners asked about their involvement.
In smaller towns, coordination appears seamless, with broad consensus and solidarity. Protest planning is being organized through various channels, including WhatsApp.
Hamburg's Most Famous Pharmacy Joins Strike
The Adler Pharmacy in Hamburg-Wandsbek is also taking part. "We've been coordinating with colleagues," Gnekow explains. "We just came out of the school holidays, so we've been trying to rally as many people as possible."
Beyond closing for the day, the pharmacy will set up information booths outside. "We don't want customers just finding locked doors—we want to explain why we can't be there for them that day," says Gnekow, who co-manages the pharmacy with her father, Holger Gnekow, president of the Hamburg Chamber of Pharmacists.
"We also want to direct people to the online petition," she adds. Under the slogan "Stop the Death of Pharmacies—Implement the Coalition Agreement Now!" the ABDA (German Pharmacists' Association) launched a petition in February. "It's crucial that as many people as possible sign it," Gnekow stresses. "My team will split up that day—some will stay here, while others will travel toHannoverfor the rally." The exact number of staff attending is still under discussion.
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