work in an independent pharmacy, chances are you’ve heard of McKesson ideaShare. Held each year in the lively city of Las Vegas, this conference is designed specifically for independent pharmacy professionals—owners, managers, pharmacists, technicians, and support staff.
Whether you’re running a single store or a small chain, ideaShare helps you stay sharp, connect with peers, and uncover new ways to serve patients and keep your business strong.
When & Where
- Dates: November 10–12, 2025
- Venue: Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Schedule:
- Day 1: Morning registration, afternoons focus on education and networking
- Day 2: Full day of sessions and exhibit hall visiting
- Day 3: Morning best-practice showcases and closing workshops
Las Vegas provides easy access to the conference center along with plenty of dining, entertainment, and travel options—perfect for mixing business with downtime.
What Is ideaShare All About?
ideaShare is an annual gathering crafted just for independent pharmacy teams affiliated with McKesson. Attendees come together to:
- Learn advanced business and clinical practices
- Discover growth opportunities in services and retail
- Explore new vendor relationships in the exhibit hall
- Bond with other pharmacists facing similar challenges
This is a place to exchange ideas, share successful strategies, and learn from real-world leaders in independent pharmacy.
Who Should Attend?
If you identify with any of these roles, ideaShare is for you:
- Pharmacy owners and store managers
- Pharmacists and clinical service providers
- Pharmacy technicians and support staff
- Marketing and business development leaders
- New graduates entering independent practice
- Anyone focused on putting quality service and patient care first
This event welcomes teams at all stages—from startup shops to established community pharmacies—and supports everyone with actionable insights.
What to Expect
1. Educational Sessions
Breakout sessions cover a range of topics, including:
- Advanced medication therapy management programs
- Business growth through retail expansion and merchandising
- Emerging clinical services like immunizations and wellness coaching
- Employee leadership and team building
- Financial management and reimbursement strategies
These sessions are practical, real, and shaped by experiences from independent pharmacy owners—no fluff, just what works.
2. Exhibit Hall
A lively exhibit hall features vendors supplying everything from packaging solutions to OTC items, software tools, and workflow products. You’ll find new ways to create value in your store.
3. IdeaShare Awards
Recognizes standout pharmacy teams for innovation in areas like community impact, service growth, and operational excellence. A great spotlight for hard work and creativity.
4. Networking Events
Coffee meetups, evening receptions, and casual lunch tables create space for conversations. These moments often lead to partnerships or tips you can’t find online.
5. Peer Discussions
Room for roundtable talks and small group brainstorming. Ideal for asking hard questions and sharing lessons from the front lines of pharmacy.
Benefits of Attending
- Learn what works in other successful pharmacies
- Find tools and vendors that support your pharmacy’s goals
- Bring home practical ideas you can apply right away for patient care and growth
- Connect with peers who know your challenges firsthand
- Win awards or earn recognition for your hard work
- Level up your team through training and shared learning
Cost & Registration
Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Full Conference Pass: Includes educational sessions, exhibit hall access, and networking events; estimated cost around $600–$800 per person
- Team Rates: Discounts are typically available for multiple attendees from the same store
- Add-on Workshops: Fees may apply for optional small-group training sessions
- Early Registration: Usually offers a better rate, so it pays to sign up early
Keep in mind: prices may change based on membership status with McKesson and timing of registration.
Where to Stay
Mandalay Bay is the main hotel venue, but the Las Vegas Strip offers many nearby options:
- On-site hotels: Convenient for walking to sessions and events
- Mid-range options: Just a few steps away with good value
- Budget-friendly hotels: A short walk or ride and a way to save
- Suites and Airbnb options: Ideal for teams traveling together or those staying longer
Las Vegas fills quickly around conference dates, so it’s smart to book lodging early for the best rates and room options.
Getting Around
- Rideshare and taxis: Easy to use on the Strip
- Walking the Strip: Most major hotels and the convention center are within walking distance
- Monorail: Connects some hotels on the south end of the Strip
- Airport shuttles: Often available through hotels or via ride-share services
Tips for Maximum Value
- Plan your sessions in advance: Take a look at the agenda and decide which talks align with your goals.
- Bring your team: Attending together lets you discuss ideas during hotel downtime.
- Pack essentials: A notebook, business cards, and a tote bag for all your materials.
- Start conversations early: The best tips often come from informal chats.
- Visit vendor booths: Demos show how tools can fit into your store workflow.
- Enter the awards: Submitting a nomination is a great way to gain recognition for your team.
Final Thoughts
The McKesson ideaShare Conference is more than just a meeting—it’s a community of independent pharmacy professionals who care deeply about their patients and their business. You’ll leave energized with practical tools, ideas that matter, and connections that last.
If you’re committed to growing your pharmacy—whether that’s through new services, better patient care, or smarter operations—this conference has something for you.
To learn more and book your spot for McKesson ideaShare, visit:
https://www.mckesson.com/ideaShare