What’s in a name? Well, for loyal patrons of Hazlet Pharmacy who know and love all that they have to offer, probably not quite enough, since “pharmacy” doesn’t begin to describe the vast array of wonderful items that fill the space of the store! In fact, the sign over the entrance actually reads “Hazlet Pharmacy – The Perfect Gift,” and the name could not be more perfect, indeed.
Founded in October 1959 by Anthony Jackapino, the original 1,800-square-foot store was located at the corner of Bethany Road and Hazlet Avenue and was the first pharmacy in Hazlet, NJ. Life was much slower – and the area much less populated – in those days, but as the community grew, so did the business. In 1970, the store was enlarged to 3,500 square feet and continued to offer needed pharmaceutical services and much more. Fast forward to 2004, when the burgeoning business, unable to expand any further to remain in that location, moved to a beautiful, brand new 6,500-square-foot space, conveniently located on Highway 35 in Hazlet, right across from Costco and the Hazlet Multiplex Cinemas. There, every wall and aisle is filled with an amazing assortment of merchandise that has truly sealed its stature as one of the finest gift emporiums in the area. As it has been for decades, Hazlet Pharmacy is still the go-to source for a full line of medical equipment and supplies, plus prescription services that include free delivery and prescription flavoring that helps make the medicine go down easier.
Continuing in the family tradition, day-to-day operations of the business are now run by Anthony’s children, Teresa Tollevsen and Jerry Jackapino, with help from their mother, Sophie Jackapino. Teresa speaks with warmth and pride about the way Hazlet Pharmacy’s products and services have evolved. “It started out as a pharmacy that sold gifts when people came in to get their prescriptions,” she explained. “Now it’s half and half, and we are a destination gift store. There is nothing in the area with the selection we have.” That selection includes such notable names as Vera Bradley, Lenox China, Yankee Candle, Crabtree & Evelyn, Melissa & Doug Toys, Willow Tree Angels, Annalee Dolls, Precious Moments, Jim Shore, Gund Plush, and more.
There is a delicious display of edible treats, plus wine totes and accessories, all of which make perfect hostess and holiday gifts. Home décor items and kitchen tools are appreciated shower or housewarming presents, and to celebrate the arrival of little ones in the family, there are also numerous lovely baby gifts. Don’t overlook the humorous novelty items, because, after all, laughter is the best medicine! The women’s department presents fashionable shawls, scarves, slippers, capes, gloves, jewelry, and accessories. For the perfect stocking stuffer, consider the personalized Christmas ornaments that are available, too.
Customer service is paramount here, and with every purchase, free gift wrapping is offered. There’s even a rewards program, with a preferred customer card that pays back $10 for every $200 in purchases, and a check sent in the customer’s birthday month. And, says Teresa, “If you’re looking for something we don’t have, we will try our best to accommodate requests.” Once you see all the truly perfect gifts they have to offer, now and throughout the year, you’ll agree that the name “Hazlet Pharmacy – The Perfect Gift” says it all.