Mumbai: GSK Pharma shuts its consumer trade channel

Mumbai: City-based GSK Pharma has shut its consumer trade channel (CTC) business, terminating the employment of around 200 people, to save costs. The employees, based across cities, were mid-level executives who worked with trade channels — that is, distributors and chemists, sources told TOI.

A GSK India spokesperson confirmed the development, saying, “As part of a strategic review of our business, over 150 colleagues from our CTC business have been impacted. In keeping with our values, we are supporting them with appropriate financial and outplacement support.” Sources say that the number of people laid off could be even higher, but the exact details could not be ascertained.

An industry expert explained that their role was taking orders from chemists which in today’s world can be done more effectively through the digital medium.

They would ensure brands are present in the chemist and retail outlets.