DIF (Distribuzione Intermedia del Farmaco — pharmaceutical intermediate distribution) is the link in the pharma supply chain that connects the manufacturer to the pharmacy: intermediate distributors (wholesalers) buy medicines and deliver them to points of sale, ensuring wide availability and frequent deliveries, often several times a day.
How it works
The intermediate distributor manages warehouse, assortment and logistics for thousands of SKUs, with fixed-route deliveries to pharmacies. It operates under strict quality requirements (GDP) and, for many products, cold chain control.
Why it’s a critical sector
DIF runs on razor-thin margins and high logistics intensity: route efficiency, vehicle fill and punctuality make the difference between profit and loss. It’s the operating context of Optivo’s pharma vertical — see the pharmaceutical distribution sector page and the analysis on pharmacy chains and disintermediation.
FAQ
How is DIF different from general pharmaceutical logistics?
DIF is specifically wholesale distribution to pharmacies, with frequent deliveries and broad assortment under GDP rules. Pharmaceutical logistics also covers manufacturing, import and primary transport.
Why are DIF margins so low?
Because of regulated prices, highly fragmented deliveries and high logistics costs combined. That’s why operational optimisation is decisive — see the analysis on DIF EBITDA.