Chemist Warehouse founding brothers flag intention to sell shares

Sigma Healthcare has announced the release of more than 5 billion shares from voluntary escrow, effective following the close of trading on 27 August 2026.

The release coincides with Sigma Healthcare’s financial results announcement for the period ended 30 June 2026 and relates to shares held by the founders of Chemist Warehouse, Mario Verrocchi, Jack Gance and Sam Gance, as well as their associated entities.

Mario Verrocchi, co-founder of Chemist Warehouse and an executive at Sigma Healthcare, has confirmed that he does not intend to sell any of his shares in the near term and remains committed to his leadership responsibilities within the business.

Meanwhile, Jack Gance and Sam Gance, the brothers who co-founded Chemist Warehouse, have indicated that they do not currently intend to sell more than 20% of their respective shareholdings in the near term. However, they acknowledged that their intentions may evolve depending on personal circumstances and prevailing market conditions.

Michael Sammells, Sigma Healthcare Chairman, said any decision by the founders to sell shares following the expiry of the escrow arrangements remained entirely at their discretion. He acknowledged their stated intention to retain a substantial ownership position in Sigma Healthcare, describing it as a reflection of their continued support and confidence in the company’s long-term prospects.

Sigma Healthcare operates across the pharmaceutical distribution and retail sectors, an industry facing ongoing regulatory change, shifting consumer expectations and heightened competitive pressures.

Earlier this year, Sigma Healthcare expanded into the United Kingdom market through a partnership with London-based Greenlight Healthcare, alongside plans to acquire a 75% stake in certain GreenLight stores. Under the preliminary agreement, Sigma Healthcare will license the Chemist Warehouse brand and provide inventory management and marketing support to Greenlight’s network of 22 stores across London. GreenLight Healthcare will continue to provide dispensary and professional services requirements, as well as back-office support.

The strategic expansion follows the February 2025 merger between Chemist Warehouse and Sigma Healthcare, which created one of the world’s largest pharmacy retail groups and a company with a market capitalisation exceeding $24 billion.

Sigma Healthcare is now Australia’s largest pharmacy chain, operating 553 stores across 412 cities. The company also maintains an international presence through operations in China, Dubai, Ireland and New Zealand.

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