2 minute read
Small Business of the Year - Armuchee Pharmacy
Celebrating the Small Business of the Year is our way of honoring a member who has shown exemplary achievement in business. Nominees must be a for-profit entity and Chamber member with a business presence within Floyd County for at least five years, with 50 or fewer employees.
The 2021 Small Business of the Year is awarded to the Armuchee Pharmacy, which opened its doors in August 1994.
Advertisement
Austin Ratliff, owner and pharmacist, acquired the business from his father four years ago. Growing up in Rome, Austin finished high school at Model then attended Shorter University before going on to Auburn University to obtain his Doctor of Pharmacy degree in 2014.
Since acquiring the pharmacy, he has added techniques and technology. A website, an app, and online ordering allowed the pharmacy to automate helpful services. Before the Covid-19 vaccine was available, efficient and effective guidelines and borders were set in place so that everyone within their parameter would be as informed and safe as possible.
When the allocated vaccine was first received, Armuchee Pharmacy had devised a simple schedule that allowed customers to receive the Covid vaccine promptly. Thus far, the pharmacy has issued hundreds of inoculations.
Their mission is to provide efficient, patient-centered care for customers and contacts, and they remain dedicated to helping patients manage and understand needed prescriptions.
“Here at Armuchee Pharmacy, we have always been proud to serve the community by meeting its pharmaceutical needs, and we plan to continue to do so. Our staff has years of experience at Armuchee Pharmacy, knowing many customers personally. We are not a chain, but we can offer everything a big box pharmacy can,” says Austin. “All meds are prepared for customers to pick up at one time, and they don’t have to make return trips. The best surprise for new customers is when they learn about our free delivery service—not just to our neighborhoods, but throughout Floyd County. That means customers can stop waiting in drive-through pick-up windows to get prescriptions. We bring them directly to you.”
Austin is optimistic about the future, with new ideas on growing and expanding the digital footprint. They will continue to support school scholarships for Armuchee High School and the middle school’s sports activities. Armuchee Pharmacy also plans to offer convenient preventative inoculations for pneumonia and shingles and other important services for customers, all designed to help boost a healthier, happier community.
