News2026/09/01
A new gem joins the network: Galenica acquires Bären Apotheke am Zytglogge
The long-established Bären Apotheke am Zytglogge has been part of Bern’s cityscape for generations. Since 1 September 2026, it has been part of the Galenica network and continues to operate under the name “Bären Vita Zytglogge” with a new concept. This preserves a piece of Bern’s history while opening up new prospects for its future.
For Lukas Schwander, it was always clear that the pharmacy should continue to serve the local community’s healthcare needs after being transferred to a new owner. Finding a suitable succession arrangement took around two years and proved challenging. In addition to economic challenges such as persistent pressure on margins, a social aspect emerged: Fewer and fewer young professionals are willing to take on the entrepreneurial responsibility of running their own business.
Lukas Schwander found the right solution in Galenica. In addition to the prospects for the location, its employees and customers, trust in a company with roots in Bern was also a decisive factor. “It was important to find a good solution, not only on a personal level, but also to offer reliable prospects to my employees and customers.”
Preserving history, shaping the future
Since 1 September, the location has been operating under the new name “Bären Vita Zytglogge”. The focus is on natural remedies, over-the-counter products and a selection of distinctly Swiss products. In a way, the new concept ties in with the historical origins of the location as a drugstore.
Two locations, one seamless service
Continuity is also being ensured on a personal level: the employees of Bären Apotheke Zytglogge will continue to serve customers. Lukas Schwander will also continue to work as a pharmacist at Amavita Volz.
Galenica's pharmacy network
Galenica is also investing in the modernisation of existing locations, new pharmacy concepts, healthcare services (“Consultation Plus”) and digital offerings. Expansion therefore means not only more locations, but also the further development of our range of services. In doing so, we are strengthening the pharmacy’s position as the first point of contact for health-related questions.
As of the end of June, our pharmacy network included 384 locations throughout Switzerland.
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