The history of The Jean Coutu Group is inextricably linked to the growth of Quebec entrepreneurship. Over the years and through acquisitions, the Jean Coutu brand has evolved in step with the changes that have occurred in the profession of pharmacist and in the field of retail management.
From the very beginning, the Jean Coutu Group has adapted to new market trends in order to meet the expectations of its customers and to remain an industry leader. The Jean Coutu brand has thus carved out an enviable place for itself in several commercial and industrial sectors, making its mark on North American and world markets thanks to its innovation and boldness. And that's not counting the special place it holds in the hearts of Quebecers, an affection that has been documented in prestigious rankings for many years.
1969
Jean Coutu, founder of the Jean Coutu Group, opened a discount pharmacy in Montreal with his associate at the time, Louis Michaud. They innovated in the retail sector with a large array of products, high-quality professional services and longer store-opening hours.
1973
The Jean Coutu Group incorporated under its legal name, Services Farmico. The success of the five "Jean Coutu Discount Pharmacies" prompts the establishment of a franchise system.
1982
The company makes its first foray into New Brunswick.
1983
The network of Jean Coutu affiliated pharmacies operates its first branch in Ontario.
1986
Services Farmico becomes The Jean Coutu Group (PJC) Inc.
1987
The Jean Coutu Group is expanding into the United States, operating under the name The Jean Coutu Group (PJC) U.S.A.
1990-1995
The Jean Coutu Group acquires hundreds of pharmacies under various banners, including Brooks Pharmacy and Rite Aid, in six northeastern states, including Rhode Island.
1997
The acquisition of 19 Cumberland locations by the Group is the largest transaction in the history of retail pharmacy to date in Quebec.
1998
The Jean Coutu Group was recognized as the most admired company in Quebec for the first time, paving the way for many subsequent nominations.
1999
The company offers the first online prescription renewal service in Canada.
2000
The Jean Coutu Group is innovating by setting up a pilot project for prescription renewals by telephone and by implementing a new concept of PJC Health and Beauty locations.
2004
The company is now the fourth largest drugstore chain in North America, with a combined network of 2,204 stores.
2007
The Jean Coutu Group (PJC) Inc. acquired the pharmaceutical company Pro Doc Ltd, a Quebec generic medications firm.
2010
The Jean Coutu Group (PJC) Inc. launches the first application in Canada to place a prescription refill request from an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad. The launch of the notification service allowing patients to be notified, by text or email, when their medications are ready to be picked up at the pharmacy is taking shape.
2015-2016
The new head office in Varennes and the adjacent distribution center welcome employees from the former head office in Longueuil.
2018
In the spring of 2018, The Jean Coutu Group becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of METRO, which consolidates all its operations in the pharmaceutical sector.
