The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) of Ireland has opened a full Phase 2 investigation into the acquisition of TouchStore Limited by Uniphar plc, a significant player in the healthcare services sector.

Uniphar, which operates as one of the two full line pharmaceutical wholesalers in Ireland, also manages retail stores and franchise networks, owning brands such as Allcare Pharmacy and Hickey’s Pharmacy. TouchStore, based in Limerick, specializes in providing dispensing and retail management software to pharmacies throughout Ireland.

Under Irish competition law, the CCPC is tasked with evaluating certain mergers and acquisitions to prevent adverse effects on competition. This includes assessing how such transactions may affect consumers in terms of pricing, choice, quality, and innovation.

Although Uniphar's acquisition of TouchStore was announced in January 2026 and did not meet the thresholds for mandatory notification, the CCPC exercised its authority under the Competition Act 2002 to investigate the deal due to potential competition concerns.

The acquisition was formally notified to the CCPC on April 27, 2026. After a preliminary review, the CCPC determined that a comprehensive investigation was necessary to ascertain whether the merger could substantially lessen competition in the Irish market.

As the acquisition was completed before notification, the CCPC has mandated interim measures that require Uniphar and TouchStore to operate independently while the investigation is ongoing. Further details will not be disclosed until the review is complete.