DIRECT ANSWER
What costs should a pharmacy include when comparing online platforms?
Compare total monthly cost, not a single headline percentage. Include the subscription, percentage and fixed transaction fee, payment processing, delivery or fulfilment charges, refunds, optional services and internal staff time. Use GST-inclusive or GST-exclusive figures consistently and confirm current written terms.
PRACTICAL WORKFLOW
How to approach it
Set the comparison period
Use a representative month and record order count, sales value and average basket.
Convert every fee
Calculate each percentage, fixed charge and subscription on the same GST basis.
Include operational costs
Add delivery subsidies, packaging, refunds and labour where they differ between models.
Test several volumes
Compare low, expected and high order scenarios to identify break-even rather than relying on one forecast.
OWNER CHECKLIST
What to confirm
- Monthly subscription
- Percentage fee
- Fixed per-order fee
- Payment processing
- Delivery and refund treatment
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions pharmacy owners ask
Should fees be compared before or after GST?
Either basis can work, but all alternatives must use the same basis and the customer-facing disclosure must be accurate.
Why does average basket matter?
A percentage fee rises with basket value, while a fixed subscription is spread across the month's orders.
Where should current Pharmacia prices be confirmed?
Use the current Pharmacia plan page and secure onboarding terms rather than an older email or screenshot.
EVIDENCE
Sources and further reading
This guide provides general business and operational information for Australian pharmacy owners. It is not legal, accounting or clinical advice.