Rite Aid Corp., currently undergoing a Chapter 11 bankruptcy process, is set to close 154 stores as part of its financial restructuring.
These closures will impact 15 states across the nation, with Pennsylvania, California, and New York being the hardest hit, accounting for 39, 32, and 20 closures, respectively, according to documents filed in bankruptcy court.
Rite Aid closing 154 stores in 15 states: Here's the list https://t.co/7lN5WavHIV
— FOX Business (@FoxBusiness) October 19, 2023
The pharmacy giant, the third-largest in the U.S., had been shutting down stores even before the formal bankruptcy filing. In the year leading up to September 30, approximately 210 stores were closed, leaving the company with a total of 2,100 operational stores.
On the same day Rite Aid filed for bankruptcy protection, it announced a new leadership team as it grapples with lawsuits related to its alleged involvement in the opioid crisis. Similar accusations have been directed at its competitors.
BREAKING: Rite Aid filed for bankruptcy and is closing hundreds of stores pic.twitter.com/6HIAKQFK0H
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) October 16, 2023
Rite Aid’s objectives for entering the court-supervised bankruptcy process include reducing its debt, increasing financial flexibility, and pursuing key initiatives. These include the potential sale of Elixir Solutions, determining the best path forward for some stores, and resolving legal disputes fairly.
Jeffrey Stein has been appointed to lead the company in its effort to bounce back from years of declining sales and legal challenges.
Rite Aid has already settled several lawsuits connected to the opioid crisis, including one with the state of West Virginia last year.
Beyond its financial and legal woes, Rite Aid faces stiff competition from major players in the healthcare sector. Walmart, for instance, plans to open 28 new Health center locations next year, expanding its healthcare presence into Missouri and Arizona. By the end of 2024, Walmart expects to have over 75 Walmart Health centers across the U.S.
Walgreens is also making strides in the healthcare sector, with the recent appointment of Ginger Graham as interim CEO, while the company searches for a permanent replacement for Roz Brewer. Graham brings nearly three decades of leadership experience in the healthcare industry to the role, including serving as the former CEO of Amylin Pharmaceuticals. Brewer played a significant role in expanding Walgreens into healthcare, overseeing three strategic acquisitions to enhance its consumer-centric healthcare offerings.
