Business Spotlight
Jersey Drugs - 286 Central Avenue, Jersey City
Business Owners: John Gerbasio and Jeff Forrer
October 2009
The history of Jersey Drugs located at 286 Central Avenue goes beyond the thirty years John Gerbasio & Jeff Forrer have owned the place, but rather to the days the two worked at the pharmacy side by side stacking shelves in 1973 during their high school years.
Then pharmacist, Peter Sobados, encouraged the two to pursue a
degree in pharmacy after graduating high school and one day own
the location itself.
John Gerbasio, graduated from Hudson Catholic High School
in 1975 and went on to earn a Bachelors degree in Science in
Pharmacy, from St. John’s University, and Jeff Forrer graduated
from Dickinson High School and also earned a Bachelors degree
of Science in Pharmacy from Brooklyn College of Pharmacy. After
receiving their degrees they soon returned to Jersey City Heights to
fulfill their mentor’s dream and became the business men they were
inspired to be.
To John & Jeff this is not any ordinary job - its their passion. Former Jersey City Heights residents, they understand their customer’s needs and concerns. “Everyone who walks into Jersey Drugs can feel confident about the service they are receiving. If a customer has a question either Jeff or I are available” says John. The relationship they have with their customers is that of traditional small business setting where the business owner will deliver medications to people’s home, call doctors to clarify possible miscommunication, and trust each other. Offering free delivery, everyday senior citizen discount of 10%, and multilingual translations for medications these unique services is what keeps customers returning. “We have customers that have been coming here for 30, 40 years and we happily address their concerns, questions every time,” said John.
Jersey Drugs is a member of the Hudson County Pharmaceutical Society. Has been recently certified ACHC. The business has worked with the Rutgers School of Pharmacy hosting students for an externship programs. Jersey Drugs is a place of professional service, a business of education, and a fine example of Central Avenue business!