The Evolution of The Drug Store from 1899 to Today

The pharmacy, with years of experience, traces its origins back to 1899 when it was established by A.R. Bechaurd, a Civil War veteran, under the name Drug Store. In the early 1900s, Joe Backman from Fort Atkinson purchased and renamed the establishment Backman Drug Co.

By 1911, the store saw a change in stewardship as Ray O. Fischer, who had served his apprenticeship there, became the new owner. Around the same time, Franklin Mueller began his own apprenticeship at the store, attended the University of Illinois, and became a registered pharmacist by 1915.

In 1935, the Muellers acquired half an interest in what became Fischer Pharmacy, Inc., and just a year later, the store underwent its first major remodel, which included the installation of a soda fountain and booths. The year 1953 marked a significant transition when Ray Fischer, opting for retirement, sold his share of the store to Mueller. By 1956, the store was renamed Mueller Drugs, around the same time Floyd Lange joined as a pharmacist. The store continued to evolve; in 1963, the soda fountain was removed to expand the Hallmark card department.

In 1965, Floyd Lange acquired an interest in the store, now known as Mueller Drugs, Inc. When Mueller retired in 1971 at the venerable age of 80, he sold the remainder of his interest to Floyd Lange and Robert Niebler. A year later, in response to emerging health concerns, the store discontinued the sale of cigarettes, cigars, and tobacco products, repurposing the space to further enlarge the Hallmark department.

Floyd Lange’s passing in 1984 left Robert Niebler as the sole owner, operating the store under the name Mueller Drugs while doing business as The Drug Store. Despite these changes, the pharmacy has remained at its original location at 132 South Main Street in Jefferson. The store, which still boasts its original tin ceiling and stained glass windows, was computerized in 1987 and has since undergone numerous updates to maintain its status as a reliable provider of professional pharmacy services.

Fast forward to today, Josh Lotz, the current owner, began his community pharmacy journey fresh out of pharmacy school. “I didn’t really know if I had any intention of owning at that time, but I really liked going more independent as opposed to the chain route because there was a little more freedom and just a better feel, especially getting to know patients better.”

In the bustling world of pharmaceuticals, where numerous competitors vie for attention, one question lingers: How does one truly stand out? For Josh Lotz, the answer is simple yet profound.

“We do our best to know our customers on a first-name basis and treat them as if they were family,” Josh explains. This commitment to a personal touch is at the heart of their service philosophy. When it comes to recommendations, Josh and his team aim to offer the best possible service, ensuring every customer feels valued and cared for.

Their dedication goes beyond friendly service. Recognizing the needs of their patients, they offer crucial services like home delivery for those who can’t easily get out and about. “We also provide medication packaging for patients who need extra help managing their medications,” Josh adds. The goal is to be friendly, quick, and professional, creating a seamless experience for every customer.

Josh is very pleased with the partnership with IPC and understands the benefits of being part of a member-owned cooperative. “IPC has always been a beneficial partner,” he says. Leveraging IPC’s resources, Josh makes heavy use of generic purchasing from the warehouse daily.

“IPC keeps us informed about new ideas and services at conferences and through their educational resources,” Josh mentions. “My regional director is very helpful when it comes time to review my contract with McKesson, manage my rebates, and provide opportunities for services or products that I wouldn’t otherwise be aware of or have access to.”

Josh is looking forward to attending McKesson ideaShare at the end of June. “We’re looking forward to seeing what other pharmacies are doing—whether it’s outside-the-box ideas, new products, or different services,” Josh says. This openness to new ideas and strategies reflects Josh’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation for The Drug Store.

In a world where personal touch and professional service are crucial, Josh and his team exemplify what it means to stand out. The Drug Store is committed to delivering quality customer care, forming strategic partnerships, and embracing innovation, thereby setting the standard for exceptional pharmaceutical services. This legacy of dedication and adaptability has cemented the pharmacy’s status as a community cornerstone, offering reliable, professional, and personalized care for over a century.