SHOREWOOD, Wis. — More people are turning to local pharmacies as national drug stores are experiencing staffing shortages and difficulties keeping certain medications in stock.

North Shore Pharmacy in Shorewood has served the Milwaukee area for 85 years. Kyle Beyer took over the business in March 2020. He’s now the owner and head pharmacist.

He said opening in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic was a challenge, but also a unique opportunity. The pharmacy became a trusted source for the latest medical information during the pandemic and was among the first to offer the COVID-19 vaccine in the area.

Gretchen Miller doesn’t go anywhere else for her vaccinations.

“I just love that this is locally owned,” she said. “I don’t go anywhere else.”

Over the years, many smaller, independent pharmacies have struggled to compete with some of the big box chain retailers. Miller said she thinks that’s changing as more people crave a personal experience.

“The closer you are to the people who are giving you your care, the more they understand who you are,” she said. “They’re local and know your needs.”

Beyer said he and his team know their customers by name, not just by prescription numbers.

“Service is the biggest difference, and if you ask anybody who has transferred here from a CVS or Walgreens, that’s the first thing they notice and tell their friends,” he said. “We are efficient. We are caring. We follow up with patients.”

In a changing health care industry, Beyer said his pharmacy and others like it are meeting changing consumer needs.