The Pharmacy Shop was established in 1974. Almost two decades later in 1996, Judi Henneke joined as a partner and, in 2000, became the store's sole owner.

As an independent pharmacy, competing with the large national chains is tough. To survive, The Pharmacy Shop needed to find its own niche. Not only has it carved out its place in the market, it is being recognized among the fastest-growing small businesses in the Brazos Valley for the second time.

The Pharmacy Shop provides specialized personal service for its customers, particularly those among the growing elderly population. For customers who cannot drive, The Pharmacy Shop offers delivery to private homes, care facilities, and nursing homes. The service relieves customers and their families of mobility concerns, and has helped the pharmacy distinguish itself among a competitive marketplace.

"Always stay positive and make the best of all choices that you make," says Henneke, adding "that it's important to have employees who share your same goal."

Offering special services like home delivery has not diminished business for The Pharmacy Shop's retail store; in fact, Henneke opened a second location in College Station in 2005. Henneke has found that by taking special care of her customers, her customers take care of her business.

"Mouth-to-mouth advertising is the best," says Henneke. "Long term care and assisted-living residents provide great mouth-to-mouth advertising which can't be exceeded."