Major Retailer Opens 20 Pharmacies Amid Walgreens and Rite Aid Store Closures

In the United States, traditional drug stores are facing significant challenges, leading to widespread closures among major chains. Walgreens announced plans to shut down 1,200 stores by 2027, following the bankruptcy and closure of hundreds of locations by Rite Aid. These moves have left many communities without convenient access to pharmacies, exacerbating the issue of 'pharmacy deserts,' where people live over 10 miles from the nearest pharmacy. Amid these struggles, Amazon is expanding its pharmacy services by introducing 20 new pharmacies in various cities, including Boston and San Diego, aiming to offer rapid delivery of prescriptions directly to customers' homes by 2025. This strategic pivot reflects the growing trend of online grocery and drug services in America, where financial burdens and consumer preferences are shifting towards digital solutions. Amazon's initiative incorporates its extensive logistics and automation capabilities, allowing customers to receive medications as quickly as within hours of placing an order. The company anticipates that by the end of 2025, a significant portion of the US population will have access to same-day delivery of prescriptions, addressing the demands for convenience and affordability in healthcare delivery. This evolution in the pharmaceutical landscape highlights the competition between traditional and online drug services, raising questions about the future viability of brick-and-mortar operations in the industry as the needs of consumers continue to evolve.