Mario Verrocchi

A pharmacist by profession, Mario Verrocchi is the driving force behind Chemist Warehouse, Australia’s largest pharmacy retailer. Born and raised in Melbourne, Mario’s career took an unexpected turn during university. Originally studying science, he transferred to law – until a summer trip to Adelaide changed everything. While helping his pharmacist aunt paint her new home, she suggested he consider pharmacy. Through a chance introduction to the South Australian Institute of Technology, one of UniSA’s antecedent institutions, he secured one of only two available places. That moment, he says, set him up for life.

After graduating, Mario began as a trainee under brothers and pharmacy owners Sam and Jack Gance. He spenthis early years immersing himself in the profession and learning every facet of the trade. Not long after, he became partner, with the trio steadily expanding their pharmacy empire. At the start of the new millennium, they took a turn and moved to reimagine the traditional pharmacy model. The result was Chemist Warehouse – large, discount-driven pharmacies blazoned in iconic red, yellow, and blue. Since then, Chemist Warehouse has grown rapidly, reaching over 600 stores across Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, China, and the UAE.

Mario attributes his achievements to his willingness to do “the hard stuff” and a deep retail instinct honed during his youth in his father’s small supermarket. He believes success comes from discipline, not shortcuts, and has taken pride in instilling this belief into young staff and seeing them develop into accomplished business people. Alongside encouraging them to learn from his own mistakes, he imparts the sound advice that the sacrifices you make today are what will make your future easy.

Family has always been at the centre of Mario’s life, shaping not only who he is but also the business he has built. His brothers Adrian and Marcello, along with his son Matthew, are amongst the many relatives that play an active role in the company, making it a true family enterprise. Knowing he has secured prospects for his family for generations to come is one of the highlights of Mario’s many accomplishments.

Reflecting on his career, Mario credits UniSA with giving him his start – that vital first break – and still believes that while others can give you an opportunity, it’s up to you to make it happen.

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