The vast majority of the Jhoots Pharmacy and Jhoots Chemist sites have been temporarily closed, but Allied is committed to reinstating essential pharmacy services and will integrate them into the existing Allied Pharmacies' network, ensuring reestablishment of service and improved access to healthcare.

Suhail Abdullah, group chief executive of Allied Pharmacies, said: ‘This acquisition reflects our group's core values of patient care and community service, and we look forward to driving innovation in pharmacy services.'

Jonathan Board, director and head of pharmacy at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, said: ‘This deal highlights the strength and resilience of the UK pharmacy sector and the opportunities for growth through strategic partnerships.'

The portfolio was sold for an undisclosed price.