New Owner Roland Helle Steers Wittenberg's Robert Koch Pharmacy Into Future Growth

Roland Helle has taken over ownership of Wittenberg's Robert Koch Pharmacy, including its Mycare division, following the death of pharmacist Christian Buse last year. The change in leadership marks a new phase for the pharmacy group, which also operates Galenos Pharmacy and Kreisel Pharmacy in the region. Helle brings extensive experience in both pharmacy management and digital healthcare innovation to his new role.

Helle's career includes a four-year stint at Mycare from 2009 to 2013, where he led the pharmaceutical department. After leaving, he contributed to the development of Germany's e-prescription system and electronic patient record at Gematik. His background also features roles as chief pharmacist at Aponeo and managing director of Atida Plus.

The pharmacy group now under Helle's ownership includes Medpac, a subsidiary specialising in pharmaceutical blister packaging. Since its launch in 2012, Medpac has expanded production capacity from 50 million to over 500 million units annually by 2025. Investments in automation and sustainable materials have positioned it as a leader in customised, eco-friendly packaging for major German pharmaceutical firms. The division currently accounts for around 40% of the group's revenues. Following Christian Buse's death, his wife Yvonne initially took over pharmacy management and joined the executive board of the homecare division. Christine Buse, her mother-in-law, also supported the pharmacy's leadership during the transition. Helle recently highlighted financial challenges ahead, warning of rising costs due to revisions in the Pharmacy Operations Ordinance (ApBetrO).

With Helle's takeover, the pharmacy group enters a new chapter under experienced leadership. The business now combines established local pharmacies with a growing packaging subsidiary. The focus remains on expanding capacity while navigating regulatory changes in the sector.