Glossary A–ZLetter S
Self-selection area (pharmacy)
The self-selection area is the part of a pharmacy where customers may take goods from the shelf themselves, such as cosmetics, care products, food supplements and medicines that may also be sold outside pharmacies.
It is located in the sales area in front of the counter. Pharmacy-only medicines are not kept there.
Screens in the self-selection area show offers, seasonal topics such as sun protection or the cold season, and pointers to advice. Small screens on shelves can explain individual products. Because customers find their own way here, signs to product groups and a note on where to get advice also help.
Medicinal products advertising law also applies in the self-selection area as soon as medicines are advertised, including the mandatory information. Health claims for food supplements and cosmetics are subject to their own limits. Screens must not give the impression that pharmacy-only products are freely available. The distinction from the behind-the-counter display area is important when planning content. Health information should remain factual here too and refer customers to advice at the counter.