Bold shift: a major rebranding reshapes a longstanding pharmacy network. Manjit Jhooty, a key operator behind Jhoots Pharmacy, has announced that his entire store portfolio will be renamed JHL Pharmacy. In a press release dated 8 December 2025, Jhooty — who oversees 21 pharmacies branded Jhoots — described the move as necessary due to ongoing issues affecting Jhoots pharmacies run by Sarbjit Jhooty.
He stated, “The actions of other pharmacy operators trading as Jhoots Pharmacy have caused significant and irreparable damage to the brand name.” Although the businesses have operated independently since 2019, his board and he feel a clearer separation is essential beyond prior public statements.
Under the rebrand, the pharmacies will adopt the JHL Pharmacy name with the strapline ‘Just Helping Lives’. Jhooty noted that while it is disappointing to see the Jhoots Pharmacy name exit from the stores he owns after more than two decades of effort, the decision aligns with the best interests of stakeholders and the organization’s future trajectory. He emphasized a smooth transition plan for staff, customers, suppliers, and partner entities.
Some Jhoots locations under Sarbjit Jhooty have been central to parliamentary discussion in recent months, amid reports of unexpected branch closures, service issues, and allegations that locum staff were unpaid. In October 2025, Sarbjit Jhooty told The Pharmaceutical Journal that he was selling and remortgaging stores to cover staff wages and rent. In November, Allied Pharmacies announced it had taken over more than 60 Jhoots branches.
Shortly thereafter, Prime Minister Keir Starmer informed Parliament that ministers were moving quickly to strengthen pharmacy regulation in response to the situation. The network has also faced enforcement actions from the General Pharmaceutical Council as investigations continue.
The JHL rebrand will commence in December 2025, with Manjit Jhooty serving as chief executive and director. The transition will be managed by Jhoots Healthcare Ltd and Pasab Ltd, the companies that currently oversee the portfolio. Leadership, employees, and store locations will remain unchanged during the rebranding process.
Reflecting on the broader issues facing the sector, Jhooty said, “These events should serve as a wake-up call for the industry. The opportunity is to address multiple factors—crafting a funding model suitable for sustainability and tightening the regulation of financial and operational viability for those pursuing rapid expansion.” He underscored the critical role of community pharmacy as a frontline health service, stressing the need to protect operational integrity and public trust so people retain reliable access to essential prescriptions and pharmaceutical services.
Last updated 8 December 2025 15:50
Citation
The Pharmaceutical Journal, PJ December 2025, Vol 317, No 8004;317(8004)::DOI:10.1211/PJ.2025.1.389708
