Liverpool SME funding specialist River Capital provides six-figure sum to back the purchase of a pharmacy in the north of the city. Tony McDonough reports

River Capital is providing a six-figure funding package to support the acquisition of a pharmacy in Walton in north Liverpool.

Sean Clarke, owner of healthcare business SPC Care, will use the funding from the North West Business Growth Loan Fund, via River Capital, along with his own cash to acquire Normans Pharmacy in Walton Road.

A qualified pharmacist with 14 years of experience, including a tenure as an area manager for McKeevers Chemists, Sean plans to transform Normans Pharmacy into a hub of modern healthcare services.

This investment will support the retention of five existing jobs and creation of two new positions over the loan term.

SPC will introduce new services, including participation in the NHS Pharmacy First scheme and innovations around Electronic Medication Administration Records (eMAR) for care homes.

And the pharmacy will expand its operating hours to include Saturdays. This approach aims to improve medication management and streamline processes for care homes, ultimately benefiting patients and caregivers alike.

Sean also plans to implement modern online platforms for private services, including travel vaccines and aesthetic products.

He said: “This investment from River Capital is crucial in helping us realise our vision for Normans Pharmacy. We’re excited to build on the pharmacy’s existing foundation and introduce new services that will significantly benefit the local community.”

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Through various funds, including the North West Business Growth Loan Fund, River Capital provides financial support to drive economic growth and job creation in the North West region.

Jim Moore, investment manager at River Capital, added: “We are delighted to support Sean Clarke and SPC Care in this acquisition.

“Sean’s extensive experience in the pharmaceutical sector, combined with his innovative plans for Normans Pharmacy, aligns perfectly with our mission to foster growth, create jobs and support local communities in the North West.”