Walgreens steps in to support Rite Aid customers amid bankruptcy
- Walgreens announced its commitment to assist Rite Aid customers and employees affected by store closures due to Rite Aid's bankruptcy.
- Patients are encouraged to transfer their prescriptions to Walgreens to maintain continuity of care.
- The move highlights Walgreens' intention to support local communities through this transition and expand its workforce.
On May 9, 2025, Walgreens announced its commitment to support customers and employees affected by Rite Aid's recent bankruptcy filing. The situation arose as Rite Aid prepares for several store closures, prompting Walgreens to encourage patients to transfer their prescriptions to ensure continuity of care. Walgreens recognizes the trust patients have in their local Rite Aid pharmacists and aims to provide a smooth transition to their own pharmacy services. To facilitate this, Walgreens has set up resources for customers needing assistance, including a dedicated phone line for transferring prescriptions. In addition to helping customers, Walgreens is also focusing on hiring Rite Aid employees who will be impacted by the closures. The pharmacy chain acknowledges the national shortage of pharmacists and is actively recruiting to fill various positions within its operations. Rite Aid employees are encouraged to explore job opportunities at Walgreens and can find additional assistance through a dedicated email and phone line specifically set up for them. These moves reflect Walgreens' dedication to retaining the experienced workforce affected by Rite Aid's unfortunate situation. Rick Gates, the chief pharmacy officer at Walgreens, shared his empathy for the patients who depend on their community pharmacies. He emphasized the importance of pharmacists in neighborhoods and their roles in continuing patient care during this transitional period. Walgreens aims to ensure that affected patients receive necessary health services and support during a potentially challenging time of change in their pharmacy availability. The overall strategy by Walgreens highlights its commitment to community health and pharmacy accessibility throughout the United States. This initiative not only addresses immediate concerns from patients and employees but also strengthens Walgreens' position in the pharmacy market by expanding its service and professional staff during a time when healthcare continuity is paramount.