Chemist Warehouse parent Sigma Healthcare has laid out a pathway to increase its current New Zealand network of 75 stores to over 100.

The Australian pharmacy chain entered New Zealand in late 2017, with the country being its first overseas market. 

The number of stores in the market has so far reached 75, following 14 new openings in FY26. Among the latest stores, Palmerston North delivered the strongest opening sales week ever recorded across the Chemist Warehouse network globally.

According to Sigma’s annual report, construction has started for six more stores in New Zealand, and more than 20 additional leases have been signed. This provides a clear pathway to more than 100 stores in the country.

To support the next phase of growth, the retailer will open a dedicated New Zealand distribution centre in September, which will enhance local supply chain capability and operating leverage.

During the year ended June 30, New Zealand network store sales exceeded $1 billion, representing a 20 per cent growth. The chain has more than 3000 employees in the country.

Chemist Warehouse’s other overseas markets include Ireland, China and the United Arab Emirates, with a planned debut in the UK. The chain’s international segment reported a 33 per cent increase in revenue last year.

• Further reading: How Chemist Warehouse powered Sigma’s FY25 sales and margin gains.