As a pharma business, this is your moment—not to capitalise on illness, but to step up, serve your community, and build trust. Whether you’re an independent pharmacy in the Glebe or part of a larger chain in Kanata, flu season is the perfect opportunity to position your brand as a helpful, local health partner.
But the question is: Are you ready to help your customers prepare—and are you doing it in a way that keeps your pharmacy top of mind both offline and online? Let’s dive into how your pharmacy can gear up for Ottawa’s flu season and use smart digital marketing to reach the people who need you most.
Start Early and Stay Visible
The flu doesn’t wait, and neither should your messaging. Most of us start thinking about flu shots in late September or early October. That’s your cue to begin your outreach even sooner. Make sure your community knows:
- When flu shots will be available
- If they need an appointment or can walk in
- What they should bring (e.g., health card, ID)
- What you’re doing to keep the process safe and quick
Start posting about it on your social platforms. Update your website homepage. Put a poster in your window and send out a simple email to past customers. The goal? Be the first name they think of when the sniffles start.
Make It Easy to Book Flu Shots Online
Let’s face it—most people don’t want to call in and wait on hold. If your pharmacy offers flu shots (and it should), make it easy to book appointments online. A simple scheduling tool or form on your website can go a long way. If online booking isn’t available yet, even a clear message like “Walk-ins welcome for flu shots after 10 a.m.” helps reduce confusion.
Bonus Tip: Use local SEO keywords on your flu shot page like “flu shot Ottawa,” “flu vaccine near me,” or “Ottawa pharmacy flu appointment.” These help people find you when they search on Google.
Educate, Don’t Just Advertise
Nobody likes being sold to, especially when it comes to their health. Instead of just saying “Get your flu shot here,” offer valuable information your customers actually want.
Write blog posts like:
- “5 Things to Know Before You Get a Flu Shot in Ottawa”
- “How the 2025 Flu Vaccine Works and Why It Matters”
- “Is It the Flu or Just a Cold? Here’s How to Tell”
Use your blog, Instagram, or even short videos to talk about common questions people have. The more you educate, the more you build trust. And that trust turns into traffic, both in-store and online.
Offer Flu Prevention Bundles
Here’s a win-win idea: create flu season care bundles with everything a customer needs to stay well or recover faster. These could include:
- Vitamin C
- Hand sanitiser
- Thermometers
- Throat lozenges
- Tissues
- Disinfectant wipes
You can package them as “Flu Fighters” or “Winter Wellness Kits” and sell them at the counter or online. Throw in a free flu season guide or discount coupon for a flu shot, and suddenly your pharmacy isn’t just selling pills—it’s offering solutions. This also gives you something great to promote in your email newsletters and social media.
Partner with Local Businesses or Schools
Community collaboration can give your pharmacy real exposure. Consider reaching out to:
- Local schools
- Senior homes
- Gyms or yoga studios
- Daycares
- Offices or co-working spaces
Offer to set up an information booth, give a short talk about flu prevention, or arrange a group flu shot booking. These kinds of partnerships boost your visibility and help new customers discover your services, especially if those organisations share your name in their newsletters or social channels.
Go Beyond the Shot: Offer Helpful Advice
Your pharmacy can help more than just offering vaccines. Use flu season as a time to remind people of everything else you offer:
- Medication reviews
- Consultations for over-the-counter flu remedies
- Help choosing products for kids or elderly family members
- Information on flu vs. COVID symptoms
Post a few educational reels or TikToks. Something as simple as “Which cough syrup works best for dry cough?” or “What to eat when you have the flu” can draw in views, engagement, and visits. You’re not just pushing products. You’re guiding people through a stressful time, and that builds loyalty.
Tap into Google Business Profile Features
If you haven’t updated your Google Business Profile in a while, now’s the time. Make sure it reflects your flu shot availability and any seasonal promotions. Add posts about flu season prep, new blog content, or care bundle deals. Mention your hours and if appointments are needed. This helps customers who are searching phrases like:
- “Flu shots Ottawa near me”
- “Pharmacies open late Ottawa flu”
- “Where to get flu vaccine in Barrhaven”
Being visible on Google Maps and search means you’ll get foot traffic from people who are actively looking for help.
Encourage Reviews After Flu Shot Visits
When your client comes in for a flu shot, ask them how it went, and then gently suggest leaving a Google review.
Something like: “We’re glad you came in today! If you found your visit helpful, we’d really appreciate a quick review on Google to help others find us.”
This not only boosts your local reputation but also improves your search ranking. And during flu season, people absolutely check reviews before deciding where to go.
Show the Human Side of Your Staff
Don’t underestimate the power of people. Highlight your pharmacists and team on social media:
- “Meet Amanda: She’s been giving flu shots for 6 years and makes them almost painless.”
- “Jason’s flu shot tip? Breathe out slowly when the needle goes in—it really helps!”
Photos, quick bios, or even silly “Team Flu Fighters” intros can make your pharmacy feel welcoming. When customers see the friendly faces behind the counter, they’re more likely to walk through your door.
Keep Customers Engaged All Season
Flu season often lasts into March or even April. Don’t let your messaging drop off after October. Keep the conversation going with:
- Monthly newsletters
- Reminders for second flu shots (if needed)
- Social posts about symptoms, remedies, or flu updates
- Mini campaigns like “Flu-Free February” with discounts on immune-boosting products
Stay at the top of your mind, and your customers will keep coming back.
Conclusion
Flu season is a challenge for everyone, but it’s also a chance to show your value. When your pharmacy steps up with clear info, convenient service, and a caring voice, you become more than a store. You become a partner in health, and that’s the kind of business people support long after flu season ends. Need help crafting flu season marketing that feels real and builds trust online? Contact Us at Rankingeek Marketing Agency. We help Ottawa businesses turn everyday services into standout brand stories.
