DRAYTON – Drayton Pharmacy is marking a special milestone this month as it celebrates five years of serving the Drayton and Mapleton community.
Opened in November 2020, the pharmacy was founded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic – a challenging time for any new business.
“It was a strange and uncertain year to start a business,” owner and pharmacist John Walsh said.
“But Drayton welcomed us from day one, and that support shaped everything we’ve built here.”
Walsh says the vision from the beginning was simple but meaningful.
“We wanted to create more than a pharmacy,” he said.
“The goal was accessible, community-focused care in a warm, welcoming space where people feel known and supported.”
Ribbon cutting – The Drayton Pharmacy officially opened with a ribbon cutting in November 2020. From left are Mapleton Mayor Gregg Davidson, Myles Walsh, John Walsh, Owen Walsh, Kayla Walsh, Maeve Walsh and Perth-Wellington MP John Nater. Submitted photos
Located at 10 Wellington St. N., Drayton Pharmacy has grown into a modern corner drugstore rooted in small-town values, officials say.
The business underwent a major expansion in 2022-23, relocating Decision Drivers to the upper floor and enlarging the pharmacy’s footprint to meet increasing demand.
“Residents often joke that our walls should come with zippers because this building changes so often,” Walsh said with a laugh.
“The renovation allowed us to broaden our products, add more health services and position us for future growth,” he added.
For Walsh, the anniversary carries personal significance.
His grandfather founded Walsh’s Pharmacy in Arthur in 1952, a legacy he says shaped his approach to patient care.
“Watching him care for his community had a huge impact on me,” Walsh said.
“Bringing that tradition to Drayton has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my life.”
Over the past five years, the pharmacy has expanded services, supported local events and helped families through both everyday health needs and more difficult moments.
Walsh credits his team and the community for the pharmacy’s success. “None of this would be possible without our staff and the trust of the people who walk through our doors,” he said.
“As we look ahead, we’re grateful – and excited for everything still to come.”
