The Competition Commission is investigating Dis-Chem's Better Rewards programme following a complaint by Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi.

The probe focuses on the programme's Pharmacy Boost feature, which gives customers a 5% discount on front-shop products for 30 days after visiting a Dis-Chem pharmacy. The commission is examining whether the benefit could discourage consumers from using competing pharmacies, potentially violating Sections 8(c) and 8(d) of the Competition Act.

Commission spokesperson Siyabulela Makunga said information requests have been sent to Dis-Chem, nine other pharmacy retailers, two industry associations and the National Department of Health. A preliminary report is currently being prepared.

Dis-Chem said it is cooperating fully with the investigation and maintains that the programme complies with all legal and regulatory requirements. The retailer added that participation in Better Rewards, launched in October 2025, is voluntary and that the Pharmacy Boost initiative was designed to encourage patients to collect chronic medication and improve treatment adherence.

The company also highlighted the programme's contribution to business growth. In its financial results for the year ended 28 February 2026, Dis-Chem reported that revenue increased by 9.6% during the first 17 weeks after the programme's launch, while participating brands recorded revenue growth of 12%.

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