e& UAE partners with Aster Pharmacy to launch tech-powered ‘Pharmacy in a Box’ stores

e& UAE has struck a major partnership deal with Aster Pharmacy to roll out a new tech infrastructure solution called 'Pharmacy in a Box.' The initiative will upgrade Aster's current store network and support expansion plans over the next five years.

The collaboration targets one of the region's largest pharmacy chains, promising to modernize how customers interact with healthcare retail. Both companies see this as a chance to set new standards for the pharmacy sector in the Middle East.

How does it work?

'Pharmacy in a Box' delivers a complete infrastructure overhaul for each store location. The solution packages advanced technology tools with operational systems designed to streamline daily business processes.

e& UAE provides the technical backbone, while Aster Pharmacy implements the upgraded systems across its network. The partnership covers both existing stores and new outlets planned for the coming years.

"Our objective is to ensure seamless integration of technology that boosts operational efficiency and enriches the overall experience for both patients and customers," said Fadi Shanaah, Senior Vice President of Enterprise Sales at e& UAE.

Why does it matter?

Healthcare retail is changing fast, and pharmacy chains need modern tech to keep up with customer expectations. The upgrade allows Aster to focus more resources on patient care instead of managing outdated systems.

"By streamlining our operations, we can focus on delivering exceptional care and service to our customers," explained N.S. Balasubramanian, CEO of Aster Retail GCC.

The partnership creates a scalable model that other pharmacy chains might follow. Kumar KV, Group Chief Information Officer at Aster DM Healthcare, noted that "Technology is central to how we deliver better and more convenient pharmacy services today."

The context

e& UAE operates as the flagship telecom division of e&, a global technology group with operations across 38 countries. The company reported consolidated revenue of AED 59.2 billion in 2024, with net profits reaching AED 10.8 billion.

Aster Pharmacy represents one of the region's most established pharmacy networks, part of the larger Aster DM Healthcare group. The chain has built its reputation over decades of operation in the Gulf market.

This deal fits into e&'s broader strategy of expanding beyond traditional telecom services into enterprise solutions. The company now offers everything from cloud computing to cybersecurity services across the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe.