Guardian Pharmacy LLC, one of the nation’s largest long-term care pharmacy companies, announced that San Diego, CA-based, Ron’s Pharmacy Services is joining the Guardian Pharmacy family, a strategic partnership that expands Guardian’s presence to the West Coast.

Since 1981, Ron and Janna Belville’s pharmacy has provided outstanding service for assisted living and skilled nursing communities throughout Southern California, today serving more than 12,000 residents. The Belville’s will continue to own and operate the pharmacy in partnership with Guardian, with Ron serving as president and Janna as vice president. Additionally, well-respected industry veteran, Bob Smith, will become an ownership partner in the pharmacy and serve as chief operating officer. Smith, who has decades of industry knowledge, will focus on operations and systems enhancements as well as help support the growth of the business.

“Our goal at Ron’s Pharmacy is to continue to grow while maintaining exceptional service,” said Ron Belville. “To accomplish this, we knew we needed a partner that could assist with the time-consuming financial, technical, and administrative tasks, so we can put all of our focus on our current and future customers and maintain our reputation for excellent service.”

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with Ron, Janna, Bob and the rest of the team as we expand to the West Coast,” said Fred Burke, CEO of Guardian. “The long-standing reputation of the pharmacy and focus on quality service mirrors our core business beliefs and makes for a strong partnership.”

Harbor Healthcare Consultants, a boutique investment banking firm, served as the exclusive advisor to Ron’s Pharmacy.

“I’ve known Ron for several years and as we discussed his goals, I knew partnering with Guardian Pharmacy would be the perfect fit,” said Ira Cammeyer, president of Harbor Healthcare Consultants. “Guardian’s business model allows Ron to retain ownership in the pharmacy and provides the additional resources needed to achieve the team’s growth, goals and ambitions.”