Pharmaceutical distribution in Sweden

In Sweden, pharmaceuticals are distributed through a single-channel distribution model, with pharmaceutical companies as the clients.

Single-channel distribution is used in Sweden. Under this model, each pharmaceutical company chooses a single distributor for its pharmaceuticals. In a single-channel distribution model, distributors compete for pharmaceutical companies' distribution contracts. Single-channel distribution is uncommon in the rest of Europe. It was introduced in Sweden in 1970, when the state acquired ownership of Sweden's pharmacies and formed the state pharmacy chain Apoteket AB.

Multi-channel distribution

In most other European countries, pharmacies are supplied with goods through a multi-channel distribution model. Under this model, each individual pharmacy or pharmacy chain chooses a distributor to deliver all pharmaceuticals sold by that pharmacy or chain. This means that several distributors can distribute goods to the same pharmaceutical company, and distributors compete for the pharmacies' distribution contracts.