Webster’s Community Pharmacy Named a California Small Business of the Year

Once a struggling business, Webster’s Community Pharmacy has been named the 41st Assembly District’s Small Business of the Year in recognition of the store’s significance and contribution to the Altadena and Pasadena communities.

Assemblymember Chris Holden is scheduled to present the award to Webster’s owners Meredith and Michael Miller on June 19 at an annual Sacramento luncheon sponsored by the nonprofit California Small Business Association, which sponsors the awards and represents the legislative interests of millions of entrepreneurs around the state. Webster’s will be among dozens of businesses recognized – one for each state Assembly district.

The Millers said they will accept the award on behalf of the community and the loyal customers who helped them turn things around. The honor was announced today at the Altadena Chamber of Commerce meeting.

“With Webster’s, we felt from the beginning that the right combination of innovative merchandising and old-fashioned service could once again make it a jewel of Altadena,” said Michael Miller. “We are so grateful for this honor.”

Added co-owner Meredith Miller: “Our number one goal has always been customer service. We strive to not only be a resource for our customers but hope to become their friends.”

Prior to buying Webster’s in 2010, the Millers owned and restored the Fair Oaks Pharmacy & Soda Fountain on historic Route 66 in South Pasadena, where they were well-known for their civic engagement and enterprising ways.

Webster’s employ 25 people, many of whom live in Altadena, and the Millers strive to support other businesses in the community such as local printers, graphic designers and even produce vendors.

The award also recognizes the Millers’ involvement in civic affairs and local organizations such as Altadena Heritage, the Altadena Historical Society, and Young and Healthy, as well as numerous schools and other non-profits.

Meredith has served in leadership positions with the Altadena Chamber of Commerce, the Pasadena Humane Society, Collaborate PASadena and County of Los Angeles task forces. Michael serves as a mentor to future pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Periodically Webster’s will host pharmacy interns who are earning their required lab hours.

The Millers also co-own Meredith M, a women’s clothing boutique, which opened in November 2014 and further broadened their commercial footprint on North Lake Avenue in Altadena. Since 2015, both stores have been recognized by Pasadena Weekly as the area’s best local pharmacy and women’s clothing store for three years running.

Assemblymember Holden praised the Millers for their contributions, as well as the successful effort to turn around a landmark Altadena business.

“When it comes to a small business making a positive impact in the community, you couldn’t find anyone better than Webster’s Community Pharmacy,” he said. “The Millers have certainly made Altadena a better place.”

For more information about Webster’s Pharmacy, visit http://www.altadenarx.com/