The startup behind the solution was founded by two Moroccans with decades of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. When they decided to venture into entrepreneurship, they turned to a rapidly-growing sector they knew best: pharmaceuticals.
Blink Pharmacie is a digital solution developed by Moroccan start-up Blink Pharma. It provides pharmacies with access to a marketplace where they can directly source pharmaceutical products from wholesalers and laboratories. The start-up, based in Casablanca, was founded in 2019 by Bertul Adil and Sami Khalil Mohamed Ali.
One of the main objectives of this solution is to prevent stock-outs and delivery delays. "We want to accelerate the digitalization of healthcare services [...] The healthcare sector is undergoing a profound transformation due to digital technology, and we aim to support healthcare stakeholders in this transformation. Leveraging our in-depth knowledge of the scientific and regulatory environment, as well as our background in healthcare, we have a deep respect for the ethical rules that govern the sector," says Sami Khalil Mohamed Ali.
Blink Pharmacie launched its mobile app for Android and iOS in 2020. Users can create an account on the app to access the marketplace. During the account setup process, users are required to specify their professional designation, such as pharmacist, pharmacy technician, laboratory representative, wholesaler, or visitor. These designations are then authenticated by the start-up to provide a better framework for its activities.
Laboratory representatives and wholesalers can use the app to share news about new product launches or advertising campaigns and monitor prospects in real-time. Based on the data they collect, they can adjust their marketing strategies for greater efficiency.
According to Blink Pharma, the platform currently has over 4,500 registered pharmacists, more than 41 wholesalers, and over 20 laboratories. The Android app alone has been downloaded more than 5,000 times, as reported by Play Store data.
"We faced significant challenges in authenticating pharmacists, particularly due to the regulations governing the medication supply chain. Initially, it was difficult to convince people about our idea. However, through hard work, we have successfully carved out a niche for ourselves in the market," explains Sami Khalil Mohamed Ali.
Adoni Conrad Quenum