As part of its commitment to keep South Africans living fit, Dis-Chem has proudly launched its partnership with parkrun South Africa as the official Pharmacy Retail partner.
Inspired by the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives beyond the traditional role of a retailer pharmacy and integrated healthcare provider, Dis-Chem has launched its partnership as a catalyst to promote active living and healthy lifestyles.
Better Health Starts Here
“At Dis-Chem, our promise is that Better Health Starts Here. We have always been a business rooted in the communities we serve, and we believe in making health more accessible and affordable for all South Africans,” explains Dis-Chem CEO, Rui Morias.
“parkrun is a powerful example of how prevention can be simple, free, and inclusive and we are proud to support a movement that inspires people to move together, stay well, and build a healthier South Africa.”
Running Benefits
In the world of health and fitness, few activities are as inclusive and effective as running – you can do it just about anywhere, with anyone. All you need is a pair of suitable shoes.
Importantly, few activities offer the same health and fitness benefits. Running makes you fitter, strengthens your cardiovascular system, builds stronger bones and connective tissue, and is a great way to lose weight and destress.
It’s not surprising then that running remains one of the most popular forms of exercise globally, with parkrun an important gateway to more active lifestyles and, potentially, a journey to loftier running goals like a half-marathon or marathon.
The parkrun Story
Started back in 2004 when 13 runners and five volunteers got together on a blustery day in Bushy Park, Teddington, in the UK, parkrun has grown into a global fitness phenomenon.
Today, thousands of free, volunteer-led timed 5k events take place in open spaces every weekend around the world, creating safe environments for people to walk, jog, run, or volunteer.
Operating in over 20 countries, holding over 2,700 events every weekend, each parkrun offers a welcoming environment regardless of fitness level or ability, fostering community wellbeing.
The parkrun movement has grown into an international family of over 11 million registered parkrunners (and counting). On a typical weekend, the total number of participants (walking, jogging, and running) plus volunteers exceeds 350,000 people globally.
parkrun South Africa launched in November 2011 at Delta Park in Johannesburg with 26 participants. Today, 224 parkruns take place at locations across South Africa every Saturday morning, across all provinces, in pleasant parkland and outdoor surrounds, whether it’s at a park, along a beach front, or through a beautiful reserve.
A Partnership Approach
As a previous partner to parkrun South Africa, Dis-Chem understands the power of parkrun to bring together communities, and lower the barrier for people to get physically active.
“We’re thrilled to renew our partnership with parkrun again, for the next three years,” says Brandon Fairweather, Health Category Marketing Manager at Dis-Chem.
“Supporting initiatives that promote active, healthier lifestyles is a natural fit and a genuine reflection of our brand values and mission.”
As part of the partnership, Dis-Chem will visit parkrun events around South Africa to engage with parkrunners and event teams, while promoting unique and exciting developments and offers.
Dis-Chem’s involvement will be supported by activations from some of its top vendors and private label brands, including Berocca, Jungle Oats, Slow Mag, Old Spice, Norflex Gel, DS-24, Ensure Gold, Biogen, Lifestyle Foods and Virgin Active.
“We’re thrilled to announce our new three-year partnership with Dis-Chem, South Africa’s leading retailer pharmacy and integrated healthcare provider,” said Bruce Fordyce, President of parkrun South Africa.
“We’re passionate about making physical activity accessible and enjoyable for everyone and we’re delighted that Dis-Chem wants to come on this journey with us.”
