Pharmacies in South West Hertfordshire ‘at breaking point’ as costs rise
South West Hertfordshire MP says pharmacy closures could increase as many small businesses struggle to keep staff and stay open amid growing financial pressures
Last updated 12th Nov 2025
Pharmacies across South West Hertfordshire are being pushed to “breaking point” by rising costs and limited funding, according to local MP Gagan Mohindra.
He said many community pharmacies are dispensing medicines at a loss and facing higher costs because of the Labour government’s increase in Employers’ National Insurance Contributions.
Mr Mohindra said: “Pharmacies are the frontline of our NHS, helping take pressure off GP surgeries and hospitals. But right now, too many are being forced to run at a loss. It is simply unsustainable when 60% of pharmacy owners took no salary last year.”
He has been visiting pharmacies in his constituency to hear from staff directly about the challenges they face. Many told him they are struggling to afford energy bills, keep staff employed and manage growing costs.
Mr Mohindra added: “Instead of giving them the backing they need, the Labour Government are pushing them to breaking point with their increase in Employers’ National Insurance, piling on even more costs just for employing staff. I’ll keep working with ministers and officials across departments to make sure the voices of our local pharmacies are heard. Because if we’re serious about supporting the NHS, we have to start with those on the frontline.”
He said two pharmacies in the area have already closed since 2016, warning that without urgent action, more could follow.
We have approached the Department of Health and Social Care for a comment.