Farmacias Similares, named for its commitment to generics, has long been advertised with the slogan, “The same, but cheaper.” Promising up to 75% savings, the company launched a marketing campaign positioning itself as a savior for low-income Mexicans while challenging transnational pharmaceutical corporations that discredited generics.
By operating on a massive scale and manufacturing many of its own medications, the company further cut costs and passed the savings on to customers. With more than 9,500 pharmacies across all 32 Mexican states, 550 in Chile, and 14 in Colombia, Farmacias Similares aims to reach 12,000 locations within five years, ultimately aspiring to become the world’s largest pharmacy chain. It is currently the second-largest chain in Latin America, trailing only Walgreens.
Employment and Healthcare Access
The company provides more than 800,000 jobs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, its network of 16,000 doctors conducted 15 million consultations per month nationwide. These doctors are not employees of Farmacias Similares; instead, they operate under a bailment contract, using office spaces provided at no cost, with consultation fees belonging entirely to them. This system ensures that doctors remain independent, prescribing any necessary medication regardless of availability in Farmacias Similares.
Each consultation costs approximately 60 pesos (about US $3). The pharmacy clinics provide affordable care, bridging healthcare gaps with low-cost generics and $2 doctor visits. These clinics facilitated 136 million primary care appointments last year, serving roughly 20% of Mexico’s population. While they excel in treating immediate illnesses, health experts warn they may not be ideal for managing chronic conditions.
Expanding Services and Medical Offerings
In addition to general consultations, the clinics offer essential health services such as blood pressure monitoring, birth control, oxygen and blood sugar readings, stitches, and ear cleanings. Many Mexicans rely on these clinics rather than navigating the often slow and inaccessible public health system. This is particularly true for the millions of street vendors, taxi drivers, and other informal workers who lack healthcare benefits.
Some locations also feature diagnostic laboratories, while select facilities offer X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. These additions have made Farmacias Similares a key player in providing affordable healthcare access.
The Influence of Dr. Simi
Farmacias Similares is represented by its beloved mascot, Dr. Simi, a cheerful, mustachioed figure seen dancing outside pharmacies. Dr. Simi has gained a massive following, with over two million TikTok followers. His influence expanded into pop culture when fans began tossing Dr. Simi plush dolls onto concert stages. What started as a spontaneous act at a Norwegian singer Aurora’s concert has since spread to global superstars like Bad Bunny, Adele, Dua Lipa, and Rosalía.
The popularity of Dr. Simi dolls skyrocketed, leading the company to increase monthly production from 12,000 to 40,000. These dolls are manufactured at a facility that primarily employs people with disabilities, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to social responsibility.
Philanthropic Initiatives
Farmacias Similares is part of the “For a Better Country” group, which supports multiple social and environmental initiatives:
• SimiPlanet: This environmental program protects over 60 ecosystems in Mexico, using drones to drop “life bombs” (seed-infused compost) for reforestation. To date, they have planted 2.5 million trees and corals.
• SimiRedi: A rehabilitation center providing affordable, multidisciplinary care for people with disabilities. There are currently three centers, with plans for expansion.
• SimiSae: A free emotional health center offering in-person and remote counseling via telephone, chat, and email.
• Disaster Relief: First responders distribute medical supplies, diapers, toiletries, water, and other essentials to affected communities.
Supporting Mexican Athletes
In addition to healthcare and environmental efforts, Farmacias Similares supports Mexican Olympians and Paralympians. The company awarded monetary prizes for medalists at the Paris 2024 Games:
• 200,000 pesos (US $10,000) for bronze
• 500,000 pesos (US $25,000) for silver
• 1 million pesos (US $50,000) for gold
Through these initiatives, Farmacias Similares continues to expand beyond pharmaceuticals, positioning itself as a leader in healthcare, social responsibility, and cultural impact in Mexico and beyond.