German Pharmacies Stage Protests Over Stagnant Fees
Pharmacists across Germany are holding a day of action on Monday, March 23, 2026, to protest stagnant pharmacy fees and demand increased remuneration. A rally is planned in Hanover’s Opernplatz, drawing pharmacists from across Lower Saxony.
The Pharmacists’ Demands
Pharmacists argue that their fees have remained unchanged for years whereas costs have significantly increased. Mathias Grau, deputy chairman of the state pharmacists’ association, stated that the federal government promised to increase pharmacy fees in the coalition agreement.1
The Current Situation and Historical Trends
According to the state pharmacists’ association, pharmacy remuneration has not been adjusted since 2013. However, costs have risen by 65 percent during this period, leading to pharmacy closures. The trend is concerning, as taking over or starting a new pharmacy is becoming less attractive to young pharmacists.1
The Pharmacy Chamber Lower Saxony reports that 474 pharmacies have closed in the state since 2009, representing a decline of almost 23 percent. As of September 30, 2025, Lower Saxony had 1,639 public pharmacies – the lowest number in 45 years.1
Health Insurers’ Perspective
The GKV umbrella association of health and nursing care insurance funds also calls for remuneration reform, but proposes a differentiated approach based on pharmacy size. They suggest lower fixed amounts for high-selling pharmacies in urban areas and higher remuneration for pharmacies with lower sales in rural regions. The association believes a flat-rate increase is unnecessary, advocating instead for better distribution of funds.1
Recent Pharmacy Landscape in Hanover
Hanover is home to several pharmacies, including Marien-Apotheke, which specializes in individualized medicines and care for patients with rare diseases like hemophilia, cystic fibrosis, and multiple sclerosis.4 Rossmann, Hölty-Apotheke, and Leibniz-Apotheke are also listed as top-rated pharmacies in the Hanover area.2
Pharmacy Regulation and Associations
Pharmacists in Germany are represented by the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists (BAK) and regional chambers, such as the Chamber of Pharmacists Lower Saxony.3 These organizations advocate for pharmacists’ interests and ensure pharmaceutical safety and quality.
Historical Context: Andreae & Co.
The history of pharmacies in Hanover dates back to 1639 with the founding of Andreae & Co., the first court pharmacy in the region. Originally established by Dr. Joachim Jäger, it later came under the ownership of the Andreae family from 1645 to 1803.1
1 dpa-infocom, dpa:260323-930-852465/1
2 Yelp: Top 10 Best Pharmacy Near Hanover, Niedersachsen – With Real Reviews: https://www.yelp.com/search?cflt=pharmacy&find_loc=Hanover%2C+Niedersachsen
3 ABDA: Chambers of Pharmacists and Pharmacists’ Associations: https://www.abda.de/en/about-abda/chambers-of-pharmacists-and-pharmacists-associations/
4 Teamwire: Marien Pharmacy, Hanover: https://teamwire.eu/en/resources/success-stories/marien-apotheke-hannover/