working in an independent community pharmacy, the NCPA Annual Convention & Expo in Nashville is an experience you won’t want to miss. It’s the largest national gathering of independent pharmacy owners, managers, and staff pharmacists, offering a unique blend of business insights, peer support, and practical tools—all delivered with a friendly, supportive vibe. Whether you want to expand services, streamline operations, or connect with like-minded colleagues, this event delivers.
Where & When
- Dates: October 18–21, 2025
- Venue: Music City Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Schedule Highlights:
- Day 1: Registration, orientation, student sessions, early networking
- Day 2–3: Full days of workshops, Expo hall visits, general sessions
- Day 4: Strategic wrap-up, closing sessions, final networking opportunities
Held in the heart of Nashville, the convention hall is walking distance from top hotels, restaurants, and live music venues—perfect for combining work with a bit of Music City charm uspharmacist.com+4ovationevents.com+4facebook.com+4ncpa.org+3ncpa.org+3ncpa.org+3ncpa.org.
What the Convention Is All About
As the premier national business show for independent pharmacists, this annual event focuses on peer-to-peer business education, deep connections, and innovation ncpa.org+1exponents.com+1. Key highlights include:
- Extensive educational content designed to boost business growth and efficiency
- A vibrant Expo hall packed with diverse vendors offering tools, services, and products that support independent pharmacy
- Peer-led discussions about real challenges and best practices
- Recognition programs like Independent Pharmacist of the Year
Who Should Attend
This conference is for any member of an independent pharmacy team, including:
- Owners and store managers
- Staff pharmacists and technicians
- Student pharmacists and recent graduates
- Marketing and business development staff
- Practice innovators focused on services like immunizations or diabetes care
No matter your position, the content and connections available will speak directly to your work.
What to Expect
1. Deep-Dive Workshops
Whether you’re exploring point-of-care testing, leadership, LTC ownership, or workflow optimization, these pre-conference programs give you hands-on guidance and real-life tools ncpa.org.
2. General Sessions & Keynotes
Hear insights from pharmacy leaders, influencers, and educators during keynote sessions and plenaries. These sessions set the tone and highlight new directions for independent pharmacies.
3. Expo Hall Access
Browse a wide range of vendors—from tech solutions to retail displays. The hall offers live demos, vendor interactions, and exclusive convention-only specials.
4. Poster and Student Programs
The event features student presentations and peer poster sessions—great places to learn and share emerging ideas and research.
5. Networking & Social Events
Early-bird receptions, roundtable discussions, and casual coffee hubs make it easy to strike up conversations, exchange tips, and build ongoing relationships.
Benefits of Attending
- Learn practical growth strategies from peers who have already walked the evolution path
- Discover new tools and services relevant to your pharmacy model
- Earn Continuing Education credits through active learning sessions
- Engage in meaningful connections with independent pharmacy owners and teams
- Stay informed on emerging care services like immunizations and lab testing
- Gain inspiration for expanding your business and care offerings
Cost & Registration
Here’s a breakdown of the typical pricing (based on recent conferences):
- Pharmacist Owner/Manager (Member): Around $999 early bird; $1,099 onsite ncpa.org+8ncpa.org+8uspharmacist.com+8purexhibits.com+1exponents.com+1ovationevents.com+1uspharmacist.com+1
- Staff Pharmacist (Member): Around $724 early bird; $874 onsite
- Non-Member Rates: Slightly higher for each category
- Technician / Student Rates: Often under $500
- Pre-Conference Workshops: Extra fees apply, ranging from $249 to $899 ovationevents.com+2ncpa.org+2ncpa.org+2
- Team Pricing: Includes discounts for groups from the same store or chain
Prices often rise nearer the event, so registering early is wise.
Where to Stay
NCPA works with nearby hotels, including:
- Omni Nashville (headquarters hotel)
- JW Marriott, Hyatt Place, and boutique options nearby
- Moderate and budget lodging further out, accessible via short rideshare or shuttle
All situated close to Music City Center for easy commuting between hotel and sessions.
Getting Around Nashville
- Walking: Most hotels and the venue are within easy walking distance
- Ride-share and taxis: Ready and available downtown
- Parking garages: Close to the venue; check for discounted convention parking
- Airport Access: Nashville International is a short ride away
Tips for a Great Experience
- Pick your agenda early: Pre-plan session tracks and Expo visits
- Bring what you need: Tote bag, notebook or tablet, business cards
- Arrive early for workshops: They fill fast and focus on tangible results
- Visit the Expo early: Talk to vendors when energy is highest
- Jump into peer chats: Evening socializing often sparks the best ideas
- Follow up post-convention: Send brief thank-you notes or connect on LinkedIn
Final Thoughts
The NCPA Annual Convention & Expo is more than a conference—it’s a community-powered growth engine. It combines business strategies, practical solutions, and personal connections to help independent pharmacy teams thrive.
If you’re ready to grow your practice, deliver more value to patients, and learn from others who share your mission, this event is one to put at the top of your calendar. You’ll return with new relationships, renewed energy, and ideas you can put into action immediately.
To learn more and reserve your spot, visit:
https://ncpa.org/annual-convention