Independent Pharmacies Australia (IPA) will build on growing community pharmacy momentum when it hosts its second annual Retail Excellence Conference from 8–10 February 2026, bringing together more than 200 members and supplier sponsors for 3 days of focused, practical learning.
Designed for retail managers and assistants, the conference centres on strengthening how independent pharmacies serve, lead and support their local communities.
Building on last year’s event, the 2026 program features more fast-paced, retail-driven sessions aimed at upskilling and shaping the customer experience, and helping delegates develop actionable plans they can take straight back to their stores.Â
In a statement released earlier this week, IPA says it has seen an increase in registrations since last year’s conference — a sign of an ongoing commitment from community pharmacy owners to upskill their teams and provide value to their communities. Â
Insights from industry and behavioural experts
IPA says, this year attendees will hear from high‑profile speakers including behavioural expert Bri Williams who will share practical techniques for influencing positive change, and pharmacist and leadership coach Vanessa Lontos, who will guide delegates in translating conference insights into purposeful action.
Additional speakers includeÂ
Celebrating excellence across the network
The conference will also recognise standout performers within the IPA network, honouring pharmacies and retail leaders who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation and customer care.
Awards presented will include the Rising Star, Loyalty Champion, Service Excellence, Customer Engagement and Community Impact categories.
Transforming insight into action
IPA says a major focus of the conference is ensuring that learning translates into meaningful change at the store level.
Delegates will leave with a structured and personalised 90-day implementation plan, designed to help them embed new processes, improve execution, and drive continual improvement in their own pharmacies.
‘No longer a nice to have’
“Retail excellence is no longer a ‘nice to have’ — it’s the foundation for strong commercial performance and meaningful community care,” says IPA Managing Director Steve Kastrinakis.
“Our goal with this conference is to give independent pharmacies a clear, practical framework they can take back to their stores and implement immediately.
“When our members execute well at a local level, it lifts the whole network and strengthens the role of community pharmacy across Australia.
“IPA’s Retail Excellence Conference will deliver increased support from our suppliers forÂ
“This comes off the back of insight we have that offering sponsors the speed networking format is a valuable opportunity to reach more retail managers, build relationships, and enhance product knowledge.”
For more information and to register to attend, visit: Retail Excellence Conference 2026.
