Tifton Drugs has announced a change in ownership, effective last month. New owner, William I. “Bill” Posey, R.Ph., says he hopes to provide a level of service that cannot be matched by the big-box retailers.

“When I started in this industry over 30 years ago, pharmacy was about more than the number of prescriptions you can process in a week. It was about educating the public and making sure each and every person who walked in the door was comfortable with their medications. In today’s climate you are often handed a medication with little to no consultation. We are here to change that,” he said.

What does a change in ownership mean for current and prospective customers?

“From a general business standpoint our existing customers should see no change in the way their medications are processed. We will continue to service our current clientele with no interruption. It is our hope, our expectation, that moving forward our overall service commitment to our customers will be unprecedented,” Posey said.

Throughout his career he has been a consultant, held clinical pharmacy leadership roles and was a hospital administrator. He says, however, small-business is where he feels at home.

“Back in the late 80s I had a drug store of my own and loved every minute of it. As a business owner I felt that I had a better connection with my customers. Growing up in a small town necessitated that my family rely on local businesses, now there is this entire ‘live local, shop local’ movement. That is something we did because there was no other option and I would like to present that way of thinking to a new generation,” said Posey.

A native of Turner County, Posey is a 1977 graduate of the University of Georgia School of Pharmacy. He is married to Tifton native Dianne Wood and has two children, Kent and Cole. The family says they have always been a tight-knit group and they look forward to bringing their synergy to the business.

Youngest son, Cole, will be helping his father with marketing and public relations, but maintains this isn’t “work” for him.

“Working with my dad in any capacity has always been something I’ve enjoyed, but knowing that I am able to contribute to the overall success of his business while laying a foundation for our family for many years to come is extremely gratifying,” he said.

Tifton Drug Company is a full-service pharmacy located at 208 Main Street South, sharing an entry with The Medicine Man’s Corner. They offer full prescription service, a vast selection of over-the-counter medicines, compounding and delivery. You can reach Tifton Drug Company at 229-396-5552 or by e-mail at info@tiftondrugco.com.