Brunet, a success story since 1855
Since its creation in 1855, the Brunet banner has always distinguished itself by its innovative and pioneering spirit. The history of Brunet spans more than 150 years and yet Brunet continues to expand at a phenomenal pace.
Some key-dates:
1855: Founding of Brunet pharmacies by Wilfrid-Étienne Brunet
In 1874, the building erected at the corner of Saint-Joseph and Sainte-Anne (later renamed de la Chapelle) is not only one of the largest, most modern and impressive in Canada at the time, but also hosts Quebec's largest pharmacy.
1940: A leading innovator
Brunet's automatic door-opening system is the first in Quebec. This reflects the innovative spirit that Brunet administrators have always demonstrated. Brunet's dispensary also allows the public to observe their pharmacists at work.
1955: A philosophy of customer service
On its 100th anniversary, Brunet renovates its laboratory to accommodate the very latest equipment. Behind the prescription counter, it takes six pharmacists filling 150 prescriptions per day to keep up with the demand. Attention to customer service, which is part of Brunet's DNA, is already in place.
1982: A foothold in Quebec
A group of five pharmacists in Quebec acquires the Brunet chain, which includes five stores. Then president, Dr. Willie Brunet practiced up until 2002.
1986: A concern for the health of its patients
Brunet is the first pharmacy banner to remove tobacco products from its shelves; twelve years before the Tobacco Act came into effect.
1987: Acquisition by McMahon Distributeur pharmaceutique inc.
The purchase of the Brunet banner by this large pharmaceutical distribution company, owned by METRO inc., strengthens the brand while retaining its core values.
1989: At the forefront of eco-friendly actions
Brunet launches "Gardez l’air en santé", a clean air campaign. Brunet also becomes the first chain to stop selling products containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), the principal cause of ozone layer destruction.
Brunet acts as a pioneer in Quebec by organizing nurse and dietician services in all of its stores.
1991: Involvement in the fight against STBB
As a major player in the fight against sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBB), Brunet collaborates with the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux to promote condom use. Ten years later, as part of World Aids Day, the chain distributes 15,000 free condoms, a first in Quebec.
2009: Launch of Brunet Plus
The Brunet Plus concept, designed for the specific needs of large surface stores, focuses on laboratory services as well as access to personalized advice. Brunet Plus stores also offer a significant range of natural health products.
2010: Community involvement
Brunet is actively involved with the health care sector of universities such as Université Laval, where a Brunet practice laboratory is located, and Université de Montréal through a large-scale pharmacy management project.
2010: Launch of Brunet Clinique
Launched in June 2010, the Brunet Clinique focuses on laboratory services for prescriptions and quick access to personalized advice.
2011: Your health is all that matters
In January 2011, Brunet innovates once again with the launch of MaSanté, an online tool that helps customers take better care of themselves and their families.
2018: Brunet stands out in the WOW ranking
The survey firm Léger unveils the 2018 results of its popular WOW ranking, based on customer experience, products, store, service, pricing, and personalization, among other things. Brunet proudly ranks first among all pharmacy banners and among the top 10 best retailers in Quebec, all sectors of activity combined.
2021: Consolidation of distribution activities in Varennes
In the spring and summer of 2021, the pharmacy division's distribution centre in Varennes gradually takes on volume from McMahon's Montreal and Quebec City distribution centres. In the fall of the same year, the Varennes offices also welcomes McMahon employees.
