Smaller pharmacies defend B.C. ban on loyalty programs

Lawyers for Canada Safeway and Thrifty Foods appeared before theB.C. Supreme Court on Tuesday to challenge a new ban on tying prescriptions to customer incentives.

But for some smaller pharmacies, the move by the B.C. College of Pharmacists is a positive one.

ShafikRajani, the owner of nineWescanaPharmacy stores, was in court to observe the proceedings. He says his bigger competitors are using points programs to clobber him.

"It's a battle of David and Goliath, and unfortunately in this case, Goliath is winning, he said Tuesday.

Rajanisaid he supports the colleges new rules, which he saidwill stop customers from hoarding unnecessary prescriptions in pursuit of loyalty points.

Medicine is not something that you get on a deal," he said.

Sobeys lawyer Peter Gall, meanwhile, argues thatthe new rules are anti-competitive and not in the interest of British Columbians.Sobeysowns Canada Safeway and Thrifty Foods.

The public is in favour of price competition, discounts, loyalty programs anything that saves them money," said Gall.

Arguments have beenadjourned to next Friday to give the college time to prepare its arguments.