Guardian Pharmacy Services Expands to New Jersey Through Partnership with Freedom Pharmacy

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Guardian Pharmacy Services, (NYSE: GRDN), one of the nation’s largest and most innovative long-term care (LTC) pharmacy services companies, today announced that Freedom Pharmacy, an independent LTC pharmacy based in Randolph, New Jersey, is joining the Guardian family. The pharmacy will continue to operate under the name Freedom Pharmacy and serve residents in assisted living and skilled nursing, as well as individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout North, Northwest and Central New Jersey, with plans to further increase its presence across the Garden State in the future. This strategic partnership expands Guardian’s Mid-Atlantic footprint and marks its first venture into New Jersey.

Founded in 2022 by a group of veteran pharmacists, each with over 35 years of industry experience, Freedom Pharmacy serves more than 1,300 residents. Linda Witzal, RPh, will continue leading the pharmacy in her role as president. All current staff members will continue their employment with Freedom Pharmacy, and the company expects to hire additional employees as it grows its business.

“This partnership with Guardian Pharmacy Services is a natural fit, allowing us to retain our local focus while leveraging the technology, expertise and resources a national company like Guardian offers,” said Witzal. “Having followed Guardian’s journey closely, I’ve appreciated their deep understanding of the complexities of LTC and their commitment to the same values we prioritize in New Jersey---putting residents, patients and staff first. I’m confident this partnership will help us grow and continue providing the exceptional service our communities deserve.”

As part of the Guardian Pharmacy Services family, Freedom Pharmacy benefits from the company’s industry-unique business model which ensures the local pharmacy team can focus on customer service to meet the specialized needs of the communities and residents they serve, while Guardian’s Corporate Support Team assists with the many complex behind-the-scenes business functions, including data analytics, HR, IT, payor relations, national sales and more.

“We are proud to partner with Freedom Pharmacy, led by Linda and her team, who have built their reputation and success by always prioritizing the unique needs of the communities and residents they serve,” said Fred Burke, president and CEO of Guardian Pharmacy Services. “We are excited to join forces with a trusted local pharmacy that shares our values, enhancing our ability to serve New Jersey residents with the highest level of support and care.”

Founded in 2004, Guardian Pharmacy Services has grown from a single location to 50 pharmacies serving 37 states. This growth has been fueled by a balanced strategy of organic expansion, greenfield startups, and acquisitions, positioning the company for continued success in a rapidly evolving market. For more information, visit www.guardianpharmacy.com.

About Guardian Pharmacy Services

Guardian Pharmacy Services is a leading long-term care pharmacy services company that provides an extensive suite of technology-enabled services designed to ensure residents of long-term health care facilities ("LTCFs") are on the appropriate drug regimen and to promote medication adherence, which in turn helps reduce the cost of care and improve clinical outcomes. As of September 30, 2024, our 50 pharmacies served approximately 180,000 residents in approximately 6,800 LTCFs across 37 states.

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Andrew Agan, Cookerly PR, 404-816-2037, andrew@cookerly.com

Source: Guardian Pharmacy Services, Inc.

FAQ

What is the strategic significance of GRDN's expansion into New Jersey through Freedom Pharmacy?

The partnership marks Guardian Pharmacy Services' first venture into New Jersey, expanding its Mid-Atlantic footprint and adding over 1,300 residents to its service base while gaining an established presence in the state's long-term care market.

How many locations does GRDN now operate after the Freedom Pharmacy acquisition?

Following the Freedom Pharmacy partnership, Guardian Pharmacy Services operates 50 pharmacies across 37 states.

What operational changes will occur at Freedom Pharmacy following GRDN's partnership?

Freedom Pharmacy will retain its name, current staff, and local leadership under Linda Witzal, while gaining access to Guardian's corporate support services including data analytics, HR, IT, and payor relations.

What regions will Freedom Pharmacy serve under GRDN's ownership?

Freedom Pharmacy will serve residents in North, Northwest, and Central New Jersey, with plans to expand its presence across the Garden State in the future.