Guadalajara Pharmacies now have more than 2,900 branches.

Corporativo Fragua, the parent company of Farmacias Guadalajara, reported its second-quarter results, highlighting its expansion in the country with the opening of new branches, sales growth, job creation, and investment.

Javier Arroyo Navarro, the company's general manager, emphasized that the openings are continuing at a rapid pace in order to meet the goal of having 120 new "SuperPharmacies" operating by the end of this year.

In the second quarter, 47 points of sale were opened, reaching 2,923 branches, and operations began in 10 cities where the company had no previous presence. The expansion plan continues, with the opening of a new store every three days, on average.

Arroyo also spoke about the growth in employees, which at the end of the second quarter totaled 63,300, with 4,620 new positions, representing a 7.9% increase over the last twelve months. He emphasized that the first half of the year saw good results and improved profits.

Total sales and same-store sales for the second quarter increased year-over-year. The sales area showed a 3.7% increase compared to the same period last year.

- What is your assessment of the first half of the year?

- The balance is positive: we grew sales by almost 10% (9.5%) in the first six months. Our commercial efforts have yielded results; costs decreased by one percentage point relative to sales compared to the first half of last year. Operating and net margins remain very close to the previous year's benchmark.

- What plans do you have for the distribution centers?

- We completed a technological renovation project in Guadalajara and are working on another capacity expansion project for the Center. We maintain coordination between the three distribution centers, the five platform crossings, the fleet, and the branches, ensuring timely supplies to each of the 2,923 "SuperPharmacies" and enabling customer satisfaction, the foundation for growth.

- Which sectors had the most activity?

- The operation is seasonal, with seasonal variations. We were active in technological developments, promoting e-commerce, and renewing our distribution centers. In terms of personnel, the workforce grew by almost 8% (7.9%) in six months.

- And the less active ones?

- The industry is very dynamic and requires vigilance in all aspects; we haven't identified any sector with low activity.

- How do you expect the second half of the year?

- With slightly higher trading volume than in the first half, the last six months tend to be busier.

- How is the branch opening plan going?

- Expansion is a priority. The goal of 120 new branches for this year is progressing according to plan. In recent years, we've exceeded the goal by 10 or 20 units.

- What is the goal at the end of the year?

- Open a branch every three days; that is, 120 in total.

- What investment plans do you have?

- By 2025, it is planned to invest around 2.7 billion pesos in expansion and projects at CEDIS.

- Which states are still to come?

- We have a presence in every state, with coverage in 496 cities.