Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Walgreens


, Inc. (WBA) is an American multinational holding company headquartered in , that operates as an integrated healthcare, , and organization with approximately 12,500 locations across eight countries, including over 8,500 Walgreens stores in the United States and .
The Walgreens chain traces its origins to 1901, when Charles R. Walgreen Sr. purchased a drugstore in , , and subsequently expanded through innovations like the invention of the malted in 1922, the opening of the first drive-thru in 1991, and acquisitions such as in 2010 and select stores in 2017.
WBA was formed in 2014 via the combination of Walgreens and , establishing it as one of the world's largest -led and wellbeing enterprises, employing around 311,000 team members and serving millions of customers daily with prescription dispensing, immunizations, screenings, and consumer goods.
Notable achievements include pioneering customer-focused features that drove rapid growth to over 1,000 stores by 1984 and public listing on the in 1934, alongside contributions to through widespread programs.
However, the company has encountered significant challenges, including a $3 billion quarterly loss reported in 2024, plans to close about 1,200 underperforming U.S. stores by 2027 due to profitability issues and market competition, and legal settlements such as a $106.8 million resolution in 2024 for alleged improper healthcare billing.

History

Founding and Early Expansion (1901–1940s)

Charles R. Walgreen Sr., born to immigrants, acquired the Chicago drugstore at which he had been employed on the city's South Side in , establishing the of the company. Located in a residential neighborhood, the single outlet initially focused on traditional pharmacy services, including prescriptions and selling . In 1909, Walgreen formally incorporated the business as Walgreen Co., enabling structured operations amid growing demand for reliable drug retail. Early expansion remained concentrated in Chicago, with the company reaching four stores by 1913, the fifth opening in 1915, and the ninth in 1916. By 1920, Walgreens operated 20 locations, primarily serving local communities through personalized service and fresh soda fountains that became a customer draw. The 1920s marked accelerated growth, including the 1921 opening of the first downtown Chicago store outside residential areas, signaling a shift toward higher-traffic sites; by the mid-decade, the chain had 44 outlets generating combined annual sales of $1.2 million. In 1929, Walgreen Sr. introduced the agency store model, partnering with independent pharmacies in smaller towns to extend brand reach without full ownership, which supported affiliation with over 100 such outlets initially. The 1930s saw nationwide proliferation, with Walgreens entering 30 states and operating 601 stores by 1934, bolstered by private-label products sold to non-company pharmacies for additional revenue. Economic pressures from the prompted operational efficiencies, yet the chain sustained expansion through diversified offerings like milkshakes and ice cream sodas. Charles R. Walgreen Sr. died in 1939, after which his son, Charles R. Walgreen Jr., assumed leadership, guiding the company into the amid II-era constraints on supplies and labor while maintaining growth trajectories.

Post-War Growth and Innovation (1950s–1990s)

Following , Walgreens transitioned to merchandising, opening its first store in in June 1952, which allowed customers to browse products independently rather than relying on clerks. By 1953, the company operated 22 stores, positioning it as an industry leader in this format that reduced labor costs and increased efficiency. This shift supported steady growth, with store count rising modestly from 410 in 1950 to 451 in 1960, while sales doubled from $163 million to $312 million over the decade, driven by higher transaction volumes and suburban expansion. In the , Walgreens experimented with diversification by acquiring three discount department stores in 1962, expanding to 13 by 1966 before closing them all by 1973 due to unprofitability, refocusing on core pharmacy and retail operations. The company entered in 1960, marking its first international territory, and in 1968 became the first major U.S. drug chain to implement child-resistant prescription containers ahead of federal mandates. Soda fountains, once a hallmark, were phased out as consumer preferences shifted away from in-store dining. The 1970s accelerated expansion, with sales surpassing $1 billion in 1975—the first for any U.S. drugstore chain—and reaching $1.34 billion by 1979 alongside 688 stores. That year, Walgreens relocated its headquarters to , to support administrative scaling. Growth emphasized owned stores in dense urban and suburban markets, avoiding broad franchising unlike some competitors. Into the 1980s, acquisitions bolstered footprint: 21 SuperX stores in 1981 and 66 Medi-Mart outlets in in 1986. The 1,000th store opened in 1984, and early pharmacy computers were installed starting in that year, enhancing prescription processing and inventory tracking. By 1989, stores numbered 1,484, reflecting a strategy of selective in high-traffic areas. The 1990s marked explosive growth, with the 2,000th store in 1994 and over 2,200 by 1997, targeting 3,000 by 2000 through entries into markets like Dallas-Fort Worth, , and . Innovations included the first freestanding store in in 1991, pharmacies in 1992, and the Healthcare Plus mail-order service that year. The SIMS inventory system rolled out in 1994 for supply chain management, while sales hit $11.78 billion in 1996. In 1997, Intercom Plus enabled remote prescription refills, and a launched RX Network in ; by 1999, an debuted, anticipating e-commerce integration. This era's emphasis on technology and convenient formats—freestanding units over strip-mall leases—differentiated Walgreens, prioritizing customer accessibility and .

21st Century Transformations (2000s–2010s)

In the early 2000s, Walgreens pursued an aggressive domestic expansion strategy known as the "7 by 10" plan, aiming to grow to 7,000 stores by through annual openings of approximately 400 to 550 new locations, supported by capital expenditures exceeding $1 billion annually in some years. This approach capitalized on increasing demand for convenient retail services, resulting in the company surpassing 3,000 stores by 2000 and reaching over 7,700 by 2010, with a focus on underserved suburban and markets. The strategy emphasized drive-thru pharmacies and 24-hour operations to differentiate from competitors, driving revenue growth from pharmacy sales, which accounted for the majority of earnings. By the late 2000s and early 2010s, Walgreens shifted toward consolidation through targeted acquisitions to bolster in key regions. In 2010, it acquired the 257-store chain in the metropolitan area for $1.075 billion, including debt, enhancing its urban footprint in a high-density, competitive market while retaining the brand for local recognition. Subsequent deals included the 2011 purchases of online retailers and Beauty.com to enter , and regional chains such as USA*Drug in 2012 and Kerr Drug in 2013, adding over 200 stores primarily in the Southeast. These moves diversified revenue streams beyond physical expansion amid rising competition from big-box retailers and mail-order pharmacies. A pivotal transformation occurred with Walgreens' international pivot, beginning in 2012 with the $6.7 billion acquisition of a 45% stake in , Europe's largest pharmacy-led health and beauty retailer, establishing a foundation for global operations. This culminated in 2014 with the $15.9 billion purchase of the remaining 55% stake, forming on December 31 and creating the world's first global -led health and wellbeing enterprise with over 13,000 stores across multiple continents. The merger integrated Boots' European expertise in front-of- retail with Walgreens' U.S. dominance, aiming to leverage scale for supply chain efficiencies and cross-border product development, though it introduced challenges in integrating disparate operations. Parallel to geographic expansion, Walgreens explored healthcare innovations, notably partnering with in 2013 to deploy in-store blood-testing centers using finger-prick technology, investing $140 million with plans for nationwide rollout to enhance preventive care access. The initiative launched in select Walgreens locations but was terminated in 2016 following revelations of ' inaccurate testing claims and regulatory scrutiny, leading Walgreens to sue for and . Concurrently, domestic efforts included the 2010 launch of the Optimal Wellness program for chronic disease management and a $100 million "Way to Well" commitment in 2011 for community health screenings, signaling an early pivot toward integrated pharmacy-health services amid evolving reimbursement models.

Recent Developments and Restructuring (2020s)

In October 2024, announced a footprint optimization program to close approximately 1,200 underperforming U.S. stores over the next three years, with about 500 closures targeted for fiscal year 2025 ending September 2025. This initiative built on prior efforts, including 300 previously approved closures, amid declining front-of-store sales and pressures that contributed to $11.7 billion in losses for fiscal years 2023 and 2024. By early 2025, the company had shuttered 70 stores in the first fiscal quarter and planned further reductions to streamline operations and cut costs. Financial strains intensified with a $2.85 billion net loss in the second quarter of fiscal 2025, driven by a substantial charge on its VillageMD and broader operational inefficiencies. These challenges, compounded by $12 billion in from past acquisitions and strategic missteps like the failed expansion into , prompted aggressive to reduce leverage and refocus core pharmacy and retail segments. To facilitate deeper operational changes away from public market pressures, Walgreens entered an agreement to be acquired by private equity firm , with shareholders approving the transaction on July 11, 2025, and completion occurring on August 28, 2025, at $11.45 per share in cash plus potential additional value up to $3.00 per share from monetizing stakes in VillageMD and other assets. The deal included debt tender offers to restructure obligations, aiming to stabilize credit quality and enable targeted investments. Immediately post-acquisition, Sycamore reorganized into five independent entities—Walgreens retail pharmacies, The Boots Group, Shields Health Solutions, CareCentrix, and VillageMD—each operating under private ownership to pursue specialized strategies, potential divestitures, or efficiency gains tailored to their markets. This separation addressed longstanding integration issues from prior mergers, such as the 2012 combination, and positioned segments for standalone evolution amid competitive retail pharmacy dynamics.

Business Model and Operations

Store Format and Retail Strategy

Walgreens primarily operates neighborhood drugstores designed for convenience, with typical locations averaging 13,500 square feet and featuring drive-thru pharmacies, 24-hour operations in select urban areas, and a mix of pharmacy services alongside front-end retail for health, beauty, and convenience items. These stores emphasize accessibility through prime corner locations and proximity to residential areas, supporting quick-service models that integrate prescription fulfillment with everyday essentials. Since 2019, Walgreens has piloted smaller-format stores, roughly 20-25% the size of traditional ones (approximately 3,000-3,500 square feet), which prioritize consultations and personalized over extensive , stocking fewer over-the-counter items and emphasizing pharmacist-patient relationships to address "pharmacy deserts" in underserved areas. By 2020, the company had tested around 30 such prototypes, internally codenamed "," with layouts reducing front-end space to enhance clinical focus and operational efficiency. Recent iterations include redesigned stores with only two visible aisles for essentials like vitamins and personal , keeping most products in secure backroom storage to combat shrinkage from , though such measures have occasionally deterred buys and impacted sales. The retail strategy has shifted toward footprint optimization amid competitive pressures from e-commerce, big-box retailers, and rising operational costs, including a 2024 announcement to close 1,200 underperforming U.S. stores over three years—approximately 500 in fiscal 2025 alone—to redirect resources to higher-margin pharmacy and healthcare services. This "shrink-to-core" approach targets retaining and upgrading stores in productive locations while expanding small-format pilots, which by 2025 emphasize medication-centric designs over broad retail assortments, reflecting a pivot from expansive growth to disciplined cost controls and core competency reinforcement. In fiscal 2025's first quarter, Walgreens closed 67 stores as part of this initiative, with remaining locations outperforming closures in sales metrics. ![The interior of a Walgreens pharmacy in Murphy, North Carolina, United States 03.jpg][float-right]

Pharmacy Services and Healthcare Integration

Walgreens operates approximately 8,500 stores in the , each providing core services including prescription filling, refills, transfers, and status management through online and in-store platforms. Pharmacists offer consultations, management, and for customized prescriptions, available at all locations for basic needs and specialized facilities for complex or hazardous drugs. The company also maintains a specialty division focused on rare diseases and chronic conditions, serving millions of patients with tailored care, financial assistance, and adherence support. Immunization services form a key component, with Walgreens administering vaccines for , , , pneumococcal disease, Tdap, and others via scheduled appointments or walk-ins, often combining multiple shots in one visit. In preparation for the 2025 influenza season, Walgreens expanded with additional technician hours, contract immunizers, and operational adjustments to handle increased demand. During the , the chain played a significant role in distribution, continuing to offer boosters and pediatric doses as availability permitted. Healthcare integration extends beyond traditional pharmacy through in-store Healthcare Clinics, providing treatment for minor illnesses, physical exams, health screenings, and basic lab tests by nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Virtual healthcare options allow online consultations for diagnoses and prescriptions, enhancing accessibility without in-person visits. In April 2024, Walgreens launched and services within its specialty to address advanced treatments for complex conditions. A major push into primary care came via investments in VillageMD, with Walgreens committing $5.2 billion in 2021 for a majority stake to develop value-based care models integrated with pharmacy services. Initial plans targeted 500 to 700 Village Medical at Walgreens clinics across 30 markets by 2025, co-locating physician-led practices in or near stores for coordinated care in chronic disease management and preventive services. This included expansions like 22 Arizona sites in 2022, aiming to create jobs and improve patient outcomes through digital integration. However, financial pressures led to clinic closures in 2024 and considerations of selling the stake, reflecting broader challenges in scaling healthcare amid high costs and reimbursement hurdles. Despite setbacks, the strategy underscores efforts to evolve from retail pharmacy to comprehensive health providers, leveraging store footprints for accessible care.

Supply Chain and Technology Adoption

(WBA) maintains a centralized infrastructure comprising multiple centers across the , designed to streamline from suppliers to its approximately 8,000 locations. These facilities handle inbound freight , outbound store replenishment, and specialized handling for pharmaceuticals and perishable , with strategic placements in regions like (e.g., Orlando and West Palm Beach) to optimize regional delivery efficiency. In response to rising demand for faster prescription fulfillment, WBA has expanded its network of micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs), automated facilities that process and dispense medications for nearby stores. As of January 2025, WBA planned to scale MFC-serviced stores from existing levels to nearly 6,000 within the following year, leveraging and to reduce processing times and labor dependencies. The twelfth MFC opened in , in June 2025, exemplifying this shift toward localized, high-volume integrated with store operations. WBA's sourcing strategy emphasizes transparency and standardization, evidenced by its June 2024 with TradeBeyond to deploy a unified across . This initiative aims to accelerate product , enhance supplier risk monitoring, and unify procurement processes for brands like Walgreens and Boots, addressing fragmentation in a multinational supply base. Complementing this, WBA's Supplier Program evaluates vendors on category-specific metrics via an online system, prioritizing ethical and environmental compliance without compromising operational speed. Technology adoption has been pivotal in modernizing WBA's , with investments in digital twins and AI-driven platforms for visibility and . Collaborations, such as with , enable unification of disparate data sources to model scenarios, optimizing inventory flows and reducing disruptions in operations. Pharmacy-specific innovations include expanded robotic prescription-filling systems, which automate dispensing to handle peak volumes efficiently, as part of broader efforts to integrate automation across fulfillment. WBA's overarching digital transformation, accelerated since 2020, underpins these advancements through a unified IT model focused on cloud migration (e.g., to ) and of service delivery. This includes for demand forecasting and for logistics optimization, supporting omni-channel demands amid growth. A dedicated innovation center launched in August 2025 further embeds and into core systems, targeting enterprise-wide efficiency in sourcing and distribution.

Products and Brands

Owned Brands and Private Labels

Walgreens maintains an extensive portfolio of private label products under owned brands, emphasizing affordability, quality control, and exclusivity to differentiate from national brands. The core Walgreens Brand spans categories including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, personal care items, beauty products, and household essentials, with a satisfaction guarantee on select items. The Nice! brand targets grocery and snack offerings, formulated without artificial flavors, sweeteners, or synthetic dyes to appeal to value-conscious consumers seeking everyday essentials like , nuts, seeds, and beverages. In July 2024, Walgreens introduced the Nice! For You sub-line as a health-focused extension, comprising more than 150 SKUs in , mixes, and grocery staples such as , , and trail mixes, positioned to support goals at lower price points. Household and cleaning products fall under the Complete Home brand, launched in May 2019 to include paper goods, plastics, and cleaners as part of a broader refresh aimed at enhancing competitiveness through simplified assortments and improved packaging. In 2024, Walgreens debuted a premium skincare collection with nine items—all priced below $23—including facial creams, lip masks, and sunscreens, targeting accessible luxury in the beauty segment. Private label development traces to the 1930s, when Walgreens expanded to over 1,000 proprietary items ranging from coffee to , establishing an early focus on in-house and sourcing for cost efficiency and customer loyalty. These brands collectively contribute to Walgreens' strategy of driving store traffic and margins by offering comparable quality to name brands at reduced prices, with ongoing innovations in and tiering to address evolving consumer preferences for and .

Partnerships and Third-Party Offerings

Walgreens has pursued strategic partnerships to enhance its service portfolio, particularly in healthcare innovation and patient access, though some initiatives have encountered significant setbacks. A prominent example was the 2013 collaboration with , Inc., announced on September 9, which aimed to integrate advanced blood-testing services using finger-prick samples into Walgreens stores, starting with wellness centers in locations. Walgreens invested $50 million in the venture, viewing it as a means to offer convenient, low-volume lab testing to customers. However, regulatory scrutiny and disclosures of inaccurate results from ' technology led Walgreens to suspend operations in early 2016 and formally terminate the partnership on June 13, 2016, followed by that resulted in a confidential settlement. In expansion, Walgreens formed an initial partnership with VillageMD in 2020 to co-locate physician-led clinics within stores, evolving into a $5.2 billion investment for majority ownership announced October 14, 2021, with plans to open 500–700 sites across 30 U.S. markets by 2025. This aimed to integrate value-based care models, leveraging Walgreens' footprint for comprehensive health services. By 2024, however, operational challenges and market pressures prompted Walgreens to record a $6 billion charge on its VillageMD stake in the fiscal second quarter, alongside closing 160 clinics and exploring a potential full sale of its interest as of 2024. Recent healthcare partnerships emphasize and data-driven care. On August 19, 2024, Walgreens entered a first-of-its-kind agreement with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) to improve decentralized access, addressing barriers in recruitment and trial execution through its . Similarly, a September 12, 2023, partnership with Pearl Health seeks to advance value-based delivery by enabling provider enablement tools for . In October 2024, Walgreens allied with to assist life sciences firms in enhancing outcomes via commercial data and analytics platforms. A collaboration with , highlighted in September 2025, focuses on targeting underserved communities, potentially reaching 4.3 million . For third-party offerings, Walgreens facilitates access to external services and products through integrated platforms. Its Rx Savings Finder tool connects customers to third-party prescription discount coupons, applicable at pharmacies for uninsured or underinsured individuals. Delivery partnerships include , launched in September 2020 for 30-minute non-prescription item fulfillment and expanded April 24, 2024, to accept /EBT payments directly via the app, marking the first such integration for a delivery platform with Walgreens. A prior tie-up with (now ) similarly enables on-demand delivery of groceries, personal care, and snacks. In July 2018, Walgreens debuted a digital marketplace aggregating and specialist services from 17 third-party providers, encompassing behavioral health, , , and lab diagnostics to broaden virtual care options.

Financial Performance

Walgreens' revenue expanded significantly from fiscal 2000 to , rising from $21.99 billion to $77.61 billion, primarily through aggressive domestic store openings—reaching over 8,000 locations by —and growth in and front-end sales. The 2014 completion of the acquisition, following a 2007 and 2012 stake purchase, propelled to $112.92 billion in fiscal 2015, incorporating international operations in . Subsequent years saw climb to a peak of $137.41 billion in 2019, supported by via Walgreens Health and wellness initiatives, before stabilizing around $132–147 billion amid slower and macroeconomic pressures. By fiscal 2024, reached $147.66 billion, reflecting modest 6.17% year-over-year growth but challenged by retail competition from and big-box retailers. Profitability, measured by pretax income, mirrored revenue expansion in the and early , increasing from $1.27 billion in fiscal 2000 to $4.50 billion in 2013, driven by operational efficiencies and higher-margin reimbursements. Post-merger, pretax income peaked at $6.83 billion in 2018, benefiting from synergies such as shared supply chains and Boots' dominance, though costs and fluctuations tempered gains. From 2020 onward, profitability eroded sharply, with pretax losses exceeding $13.9 billion in fiscal 2024, attributable to non-cash impairments on healthcare assets like VillageMD (over $6 billion in charges), opioid-related settlements totaling billions, and rising operational costs from labor and shrinkage. trends aligned closely, turning negative at -$3.08 billion in 2023 and -$8.64 billion in 2024, underscoring structural pressures from declining retail margins (below 30% gross) and unprofitable expansions into clinics.
Fiscal YearRevenue ($B)Pretax Income ($M)Key Factors
200021.991,270Baseline expansion phase
200543.212,480Store count surpasses 5,000
201068.403,600Pharmacy sales dominance
201477.613,750Pre-merger peak
2015112.926,070Alliance Boots full integration
2019137.414,850Healthcare services growth
2020121.98-330COVID-19 disruptions
2024147.66-13,900Impairments and settlements

Key Metrics and Recent Fiscal Results (2020–2025)

(WBA) experienced volatile financial performance from fiscal 2020 to 2024, with revenue fluctuating due to COVID-19-related demand in early years, followed by normalization, inflationary pressures, and strategic shifts toward healthcare services. swung from losses in FY2020—driven by litigation charges and impairments—to profits in FY2021 and FY2022, before deteriorating into substantial losses in FY2023 and FY2024 amid asset write-downs, expenses, and declining retail margins. Adjusted metrics, excluding one-time items, showed more resilience, with adjusted (EPS) remaining positive through FY2024 despite headline losses. Key fiscal results are summarized below, based on WBA's annual reports (fiscal year ends August 31). Revenue grew overall from $139.1 billion in FY2020 to $147.7 billion in FY2024, reflecting a of approximately 1.5%, bolstered by U.S. sales and international operations, though offset by store closures and soft front-end retail. Operating income faced headwinds from labor costs, supply chain disruptions, and investments in VillageMD healthcare clinics, culminating in adjusted operating income of $3.0 billion in FY2024, down from prior years.
Fiscal YearRevenue ($ billions)Net Income/Loss ($ billions)Diluted EPS ($)Adjusted EPS ($)Approx. Global Stores
2020139.1-2.0-2.303.4818,000+ (peak pre-closures)
2021132.74.44.844.67~13,500
2022132.74.34.705.04~13,400
2023139.1-3.0-3.583.22~13,300
2024147.7-8.6-10.012.8812,700
Balance sheet metrics highlighted ongoing challenges, with total reaching approximately $30 billion by FY2024, contributing to a exceeding 1.0 and elevated interest expenses that pressured profitability. hovered around $10 billion as of mid-2025, reflecting investor concerns over leverage and turnaround execution. Store footprint contracted amid optimization efforts, with U.S. Walgreens locations falling from about 8,900 in FY2020 to roughly 8,200 by FY2024, alongside plans to shutter up to 1,200 underperforming sites by 2027 to improve efficiency. In partial FY2025 results (through Q3 ended May 31, 2025), sales rose 7% year-over-year to quarterly figures averaging near $38-39 billion, driven by prescription growth, but adjusted operating income declined amid higher costs and VillageMD divestitures. These trends underscore WBA's pivot from traditional toward integrated and healthcare, though execution risks from refinancing and regulatory settlements persisted.

Cost Management and Turnaround Initiatives

In October 2023, assumed the role of CEO at (WBA) and initiated a comprehensive turnaround strategy aimed at addressing persistent financial underperformance, including high operating costs and unprofitable store locations. The plan emphasized stabilizing the core U.S. retail pharmacy operations through footprint optimization, rigorous cost controls, cash flow enhancements, and divestitures of non-core assets. A central component involved closing approximately 1,200 underperforming U.S. stores over three years ending in 2027, with around 500 closures targeted for fiscal year 2025 alone. This footprint optimization program sought to concentrate resources on the roughly 6,000 profitable locations out of WBA's approximately 8,000 U.S. stores, incurring $333 million in related costs during the first quarter of fiscal 2025. By early 2025, the company had shuttered 70 stores between September and November 2024, with plans for an additional 450 closures that fiscal year. To achieve broader cost reductions, WBA targeted $1 billion in annual savings through operational efficiencies, improvements, and renegotiated vendor contracts, alongside a $600 million cut in capital expenditures for fiscal 2024. In fiscal 2025, specific measures included $500 million in optimizations and an additional $150 million reduction in capital spending. The company suspended its quarterly in January 2025 to conserve cash and deleverage its balance sheet, reducing dividend payouts from $415 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2024 to $216 million in the comparable 2025 period. These initiatives yielded mixed early results, with cost savings partially offsetting sales declines and contributing to improved adjusted operating income in segments like U.S. Healthcare during the first quarter of fiscal 2025, though overall net losses persisted at $265 million for that period. By the third quarter of fiscal 2025, benefits from cost reductions were evident in reduced operating losses, supporting a 42% year-over-year drop in net losses for the first nine months to $3.3 billion. In March 2025, WBA went private in a $10 billion deal led by , providing flexibility to execute further restructuring without public market pressures, though core cost management efforts continued under new leadership.

Expansions and Acquisitions

Domestic and International Growth

Walgreens initiated its domestic expansion in the United States shortly after its founding in in 1901, opening a second store in and reaching 20 locations by 1919. By 1929, the chain had grown to 525 stores, including entries into major markets like and , amid innovations such as malted milk shakes and self-service soda fountains that drove customer traffic. This period marked aggressive territorial expansion, with stores increasing to over 500 by the early 1930s despite the , supported by a focus on urban locations and prescription services. Post-World War II, growth moderated to 451 stores by 1960 from 410 in 1950, but accelerated in the 1980s with the introduction of 24-hour operations and drive-thru pharmacies, culminating in 1986 as the largest expansion year to date. The chain continued scaling through the late 20th and early 21st centuries, opening its 8,000th U.S. store in by the early while acquiring regional chains like USA Drug in the mid-South to fill market gaps. By 2024, Walgreens operated approximately 8,500 stores across all 50 states, the of , and , emphasizing neighborhood accessibility and healthcare services. However, facing profitability pressures from shifts and , the company announced in October 2024 plans to close about 1,200 underperforming U.S. stores—roughly 25% of its domestic footprint—over the next three years, prioritizing cash-flow-positive locations starting with 500 closures in 2025. Internationally, Walgreens' presence prior to major structural changes was negligible, with growth largely contingent on partnerships and subsidiaries post-2012 that extended operations beyond the U.S. now maintains roughly 4,000 stores outside the across , , and , operating in eight countries total as of 2025. These international locations, excluding core U.K. and operations, have shown modest revenue contributions amid efficiency improvements, though specific organic expansions remain limited compared to domestic efforts. Recent fiscal reports indicate international segments, comprising about 40% of expected operating income, continue to prioritize operational streamlining over rapid store additions.

Major Mergers, Including Alliance Boots

In June 2012, Walgreen Co. announced a strategic partnership with GmbH, acquiring a 45% equity stake for $6.7 billion, structured as $4 billion in cash and approximately 83.4 million shares of Walgreen valued at roughly $2.7 billion based on the June 18, 2012, closing price of $31.96 per share. The deal, completed on August 2, 2012, granted Walgreen an option to purchase the remaining 55% stake within three years for an adjusted price of around $9.5 billion, aiming to leverage ' extensive European operations—spanning over 3,500 stores in 12 countries—for Walgreen's international expansion amid slowing U.S. growth. This initial investment marked Walgreen's largest foray into global markets, combining its domestic pharmacy dominance with ' expertise in health, beauty, and wholesale distribution. The partnership progressed to full integration on December 31, 2014, when Walgreen exercised its option, acquiring the remaining 55% of and merging the businesses under a new holding company, , Inc. (WBA). The merger reorganized Walgreen as a of WBA, creating a unified entity with annual revenues surpassing $103 billion and a presence in more than 25 countries, though it abandoned a proposed corporate inversion to amid U.S. regulatory scrutiny. This combination enhanced efficiencies and cross-border synergies but exposed WBA to European economic volatility and integration challenges, including cultural and regulatory differences. Prior to , Walgreen pursued growth through acquisitions rather than mergers, such as the 2010 full integration of for $1.075 billion, which expanded its urban U.S. footprint but did not involve equity partnerships or structural mergers comparable in scale. No other transactions qualified as major mergers involving combined corporate structures; subsequent deals, like the 2021 VillageMD acquisition for $5.2 billion, focused on healthcare services without altering the core pharmacy entity. The transaction remains Walgreen's singular transformative merger, fundamentally reshaping its global strategy despite later financial strains from debt incurred in the process.

Opioid Distribution Oversight and Settlements

In 2006, a (DEA) audit of Walgreens' distribution center in , identified deficiencies in the company's suspicious order monitoring system, which failed to detect and report patterns indicative of diversion. This issue persisted, culminating in 2013 when Walgreens agreed to pay $80 million in civil penalties to resolve DEA allegations that its , distribution center violated the by not reporting suspicious orders of opioids and other controlled substances shipped to retail pharmacies near "pill mill" clinics between 2003 and 2011. The settlement required enhanced reporting protocols but did not admit liability. Walgreens faced further scrutiny for retail-level oversight failures, including inadequate monitoring of prescriptions and dispensing to high-risk patients. In a 2022 , a judge ruled that Walgreens substantially contributed to San Francisco's opioid crisis through a 15-year pattern of neglecting on prescribers, failing to track dispensing in overdose hotspots, and not halting or suspicious activities as required . The ruling highlighted internal denials of resources for compliance and emphasized that pharmacies bear responsibility under the to prevent diversion beyond mere order-filling. To address multidistrict and state-level opioid litigation, Walgreens entered a December 2022 multistate settlement agreement, committing up to $5.7 billion over 15 to 18 years to states and localities that opt in, with funds allocated for abatement, treatment, and prevention programs. Payments vary by —for instance, received over $340 million and $285 million—contingent on low opt-out rates among subdivisons. The agreement mandates pharmacy-led initiatives like safe dispensing protocols and prescriber education but includes no admission of wrongdoing. In April 2025, Walgreens resolved separate federal allegations by agreeing to pay up to $350 million ($300 million upfront, plus $50 million if sold or merged before 2032) for filling millions of invalid prescriptions from 2012 to 2023, including early refills and excessive quantities, in violation of the and . Prosecutors cited pressures on pharmacists to prioritize speed over scrutiny and suppression of red-flag data by compliance teams. As part of the resolution, Walgreens entered a seven-year administrative agreement requiring validated prescription checks, annual training, sufficient staffing, and prescriber blocking mechanisms, alongside a five-year Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General corporate integrity agreement enforcing comprehensive compliance monitoring and reporting. The settlement stems from four whistleblower actions, with relators sharing 17.25% of the recovery.

Billing Practices and Government Audits

Walgreens has faced several U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) investigations and settlements under the (FCA) concerning improper billing to federal and state health care programs, including and . These cases primarily involved allegations of submitting claims for prescriptions not dispensed to patients or inflating prices to secure higher reimbursements, often uncovered through whistleblower actions, internal reviews, and government audits of pharmacy claims data. The company has not admitted liability in all instances but has paid substantial sums to resolve the matters, alongside implementing system enhancements and entering compliance agreements. In September 2024, Walgreens agreed to pay $106.8 million to settle allegations that it billed , , , and other federal programs for thousands of prescriptions processed between 2009 and 2020 that patients never collected. The issue arose from failures to reverse claims for unclaimed medications, leading to over $66 million in prior refunds by Walgreens after self-reporting the conduct; the covered the remainder without an admission of . Walgreens stated it had enhanced its management systems to prevent recurrence, attributing the errors to operational processes rather than intentional . A 2019 settlement required Walgreens to pay $269.2 million across two FCA cases stemming from overbilling practices. One component, $209.2 million, addressed improper billing for insulin pens by misrepresenting days-of-supply data to claim reimbursement for excessive quantities during the 2010s, prompting patients to receive unnecessary devices. The other, $60 million, resolved claims that Walgreens failed to disclose discounted prices from its Prescription Savings Club program, resulting in inflated "usual and customary" charges to from 2007 onward. Unlike later settlements, Walgreens admitted responsibility in these matters and entered a Corporate Integrity Agreement with the HHS Office of to strengthen billing oversight. More recently, in March 2025, Walgreens settled for over $2.8 million with and over allegations of submitting inflated "usual and customary" prices for generic drugs to their programs from 2008 to 2023, causing overpayments by reporting higher-than-actual accepted prices. This followed audits revealing discrepancies in pricing data submitted to state agencies. The settlement emphasized systemic reporting errors in calculations, with no admission of intent to defraud. These resolutions highlight ongoing government scrutiny of pharmacy chains' automated billing systems and transparency, driven by FCA incentives for whistleblowers and routine integrity audits that cross-reference claims against dispensing records and patient pickups. Walgreens has maintained that such issues reflect complexities in high-volume prescription processing rather than deliberate misconduct, though critics argue they indicate inadequate internal controls.

Environmental and Operational Compliance Issues

In December 2020, Walgreen Co. agreed to pay $3.5 million to the City of to resolve allegations of unlawfully disposing , including prescription medications, cleaning agents, and electronics, into municipal landfills in violation of California's hazardous waste control laws. The stemmed from inspections revealing improper and disposal practices at multiple stores, where hazardous materials were mixed with regular trash rather than being treated or recycled as required under (RCRA) regulations adapted for state enforcement. Earlier, in December 2012, Walgreens settled a civil lawsuit with authorities for $16.57 million over improper disposal of from more than 600 stores statewide, including pesticides, , , and pharmaceutical residues dumped into landfills. The violations involved failure to classify and manage characteristic —such as ignitable or corrosive substances—per federal and state standards, leading to environmental risks from in landfills. Walgreens did not admit liability but committed to enhanced training and waste management protocols. In February 2020, the fined Walgreens $95,000 for selling household products exceeding (VOC) limits for smog-forming emissions, contributing to approximately 3.72 tons of excess VOCs across multiple retailers including Walgreens. This enforcement highlighted operational lapses in product labeling and compliance with California's Air Toxic Control Measure for Products. On the operational front, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning letter to Walgreen Co. on September 12, 2023, citing deficiencies in electronic Drug Registration and Listing System (eDRLS) submissions for certain drug products, including incomplete or inaccurate listings that could mislead regulators on product status and availability. Separately, on September 11, 2023, the FDA warned Walgreens Boots Alliance for website claims promoting unapproved drug products and unverified health benefits, violating the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act's requirements for truthful labeling and premarket approval. These issues reflect broader challenges in pharmacy operations, where retail chains must ensure accurate regulatory filings amid high-volume dispensing. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has conducted inspections at Walgreens facilities, documenting violations such as inadequate hazard communication and machine guarding, though specific fines vary by site and have not resulted in company-wide settlements on the scale of environmental cases.

Employment and Discrimination Claims

In 2005, African American employees filed Tucker v. Walgreen Co., a nationwide class action alleging systemic racial discrimination in promotions and job assignments for retail and pharmacy management positions, claiming African Americans were disproportionately assigned to stores in predominantly minority neighborhoods with lower sales potential. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) consolidated its pattern-or-practice lawsuit with the private action, resulting in a proposed $20 million consent decree in July 2007 to resolve claims without admission of liability, providing back pay, compensatory damages, and injunctive relief including revised promotion policies and diversity training. A final consent decree was approved in March 2008, covering class members hired after preliminary approval and establishing monitoring for compliance. Walgreens has faced multiple EEOC lawsuits for under with Disabilities (ADA). In one case, the company settled for $180,000 after allegedly firing a diabetic employee for eating a $1.39 bag of chips during a hypoglycemic episode without providing a , denying wrongdoing but agreeing to policy revisions and training. Another federal suit in was resolved with similar relief, including reinstatement eligibility and anti-retaliation protections for an employee denied accommodations. In May 2025, an sued Walgreens, alleging termination for dispensing errors was influenced by her undiagnosed ADHD, claiming failure to accommodate the disability despite performance issues. Pregnancy discrimination claims have also arisen, with the EEOC suing in September 2022 over Walgreens' refusal to grant emergency medical leave to a pregnant in , forcing her resignation; the case settled in March 2024 for $205,000 plus injunctive relief such as updated leave policies and training, without admitting liability. This violated Title VII of the , as alleged. More recent filings include a July 2025 in a retaliation where a claimed firing after reporting , and an October 2025 California lawsuit alleging workplace , , and failure to address violence threats, alongside Labor Code violations. An Indiana Civil Rights Commission charge in an unspecified recent year accused Walgreens of disability discrimination by failing to rebut evidence of non-rehiring despite qualifications. Beyond , Walgreens has settled s involving and hour violations, such as a $4.5 million agreement in 2020 for off-the-clock bag checks and unpaid time affecting non-exempt workers, and ongoing claims for denied meal breaks and expense reimbursements filed in August 2025. A separate settled in 2024 addressed allegedly improper disclosures leading to denied job opportunities. These resolutions typically include no admission of fault and focus on procedural reforms.

Product Safety and Pricing Disputes

Walgreens encountered significant product safety concerns through its partnership with , a blood-testing startup, beginning in 2013. The collaboration involved establishing in-store wellness centers offering finger-prick blood tests for conditions like and , with Walgreens investing over $100 million in innovation fees and promoting the service to customers. Revelations in 2015 exposed Theranos' technology as fraudulent and unreliable, leading to a 2016 class-action accusing Walgreens of in failing to validate the tests' accuracy and misleading consumers about their efficacy. In September 2023, Walgreens agreed to a $44 million settlement with affected patients, reimbursing double the test fees paid without admitting liability, while the company had previously sued Theranos to recover its investment. In March 2025, Walgreens initiated a voluntary nationwide recall of multiple store-brand treatment products, including aerosol sprays like Walgreens Treatment Solution and Walgreens Spot Treatment, after independent laboratory tests detected elevated levels of , a linked to and blood disorders. The recall affected products manufactured between 2020 and 2024 with specific lot numbers, prompted by safety assessments exceeding FDA thresholds for in non-prescription drugs, though no adverse health events were reported at the time. Customers were instructed to discontinue use and return items for full refunds or disposal. Pricing disputes have centered on allegations of inflated charges and misrepresentation of drug costs to insurers and customers. In November 2024, Walgreens settled a class-action for $100 million, resolving claims that from 2007 to 2017, it overcharged commercially insured patients for prescriptions by designating non-discounted prices as "usual and customary" while offering lower rates to Prescription Savings Club members for a $20 annual fee, thereby increasing insurer reimbursements. The settlement, which denied wrongdoing, applied to over 600 drugs across multiple states. Further disputes involved insurer , with Walgreens agreeing in January 2024 to a $360 million payment to settle accusations of reporting artificially high acquisition costs for prescriptions from 2009 to 2020, leading to excessive s under benefit contracts. In March 2025, Walgreens paid $2.8 million to resolve allegations in and for overbilling programs by claiming prices exceeding actual drug costs between 2014 and 2020. These cases reflect broader industry challenges with , where discrepancies in reported versus actual can amplify costs for payers without necessarily indicating intentional , as Walgreens maintained in each resolution.

Corporate Governance

Leadership Transitions

Stefano Pessina served as CEO of (WBA) following the 2014 merger with , during which he oversaw international operations and strategic expansions. On January 26, 2021, Pessina informed the board of his intent to step down as CEO to assume the role of Executive Chairman upon the appointment of a successor, citing a desire to focus on long-term amid ongoing business transformations. Rosalind Brewer was appointed CEO on March 15, 2021, bringing experience from roles at and , with an emphasis on and strategies. Brewer's tenure, lasting less than three years, involved navigating post-pandemic , including distribution and cost-management initiatives, but faced challenges from declining sales and debt pressures. On September 1, 2023, Brewer resigned as CEO and board member by mutual agreement with the board; Ginger Graham, the lead , was appointed interim CEO to ensure continuity during the search for a permanent replacement. , previously president of U.S. Healthcare at WBA, succeeded her as CEO in October 2023, focusing on cost reductions, store optimizations, and healthcare segment growth amid financial restructuring efforts. Following WBA's acquisition by and transition to a private entity on August 28, 2025, Walgreen Co. (the U.S. retail operations) appointed Mike Motz, former CEO of Staples, as its new CEO, replacing Wentworth who transitioned to a director role. This shift aligned with the privatization's aim to streamline operations through separate business units, with Motz tasked with retail turnaround leveraging his merchandising expertise.

Ownership Changes, Including 2025 Acquisition

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) originated from Walgreens' strategic partnership with Alliance Boots, beginning with the acquisition of a 45% stake in Alliance Boots on October 22, 2007, for approximately €5.8 billion to establish a global pharmacy presence. This was followed by an agreement on August 6, 2012, to purchase the remaining 55% stake, culminating in the full merger and formation of WBA as a publicly traded entity on December 31, 2014, valued at around $26.4 billion including debt. The transaction integrated Walgreens' U.S. operations with Alliance Boots' international footprint, particularly in the UK and wholesale distribution, under shared ownership led by Walgreens executives. WBA operated as a listed on the under the ticker WBA until 2025, with institutional investors holding a prior to the buyout. On March 6, 2025, WBA entered a definitive agreement to be acquired by , a New York-based , in a transaction valued at up to $23.7 billion, including the assumption of debt. The deal, structured as a merger with a Sycamore affiliate, provided shareholders with $11.45 per share in cash, representing a premium over recent trading prices amid WBA's financial challenges. , WBA's executive chairman, and his family reinvested their full ownership interest, partnering with Sycamore to retain influence in the post-acquisition structure. Shareholders approved the acquisition on July 11, 2025, and it closed on August 28, 2025, delisting WBA from and transitioning it to ownership controlled primarily by Sycamore. Immediately following the completion, Sycamore reorganized WBA's operations into five standalone entities: Walgreen Co. as a U.S. with Mike Motz appointed as CEO; Boots ; the international wholesale business; VillageMD healthcare services; and other specialized units, aiming to enhance operational focus and value extraction. This ended nearly a century of public trading for Walgreens' core business, shifting control to with potential implications for debt management and restructuring.

Economic and Community Impact

Employment and Market Presence

As of August 31, 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) operated approximately 8,500 stores in the United States, representing the core of its retail pharmacy presence, alongside around 3,700 international locations primarily under the Boots brand in countries including the United Kingdom (1,840 stores), Mexico (1,183 stores), Thailand (246 stores), and the Republic of Ireland (95 stores). By October 2025, the U.S. store count had declined to about 8,058 amid ongoing closures targeting underperforming sites, with plans to shutter an additional 1,200 U.S. locations by 2027, including roughly 500 in fiscal year 2025, to address profitability pressures from theft, competition, and shifting consumer behaviors. In the U.S. prescription drug market, WBA holds a 14.6% share as of 2024, second to CVS Health's 14.7%, with pharmacy revenues exceeding $99.5 billion annually, though total sales growth slowed to 7.2% year-over-year in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 amid broader retail challenges. WBA employed approximately 312,000 people worldwide as of August 2024, including 193,000 full-time and 119,000 part-time workers, with a significant portion—around 220,000—in its retail pharmacy segment, encompassing pharmacists, technicians, and store associates. These figures reflect a reduction from prior years, influenced by cost-cutting measures following WBA's in August 2025 and earlier fiscal strains. Store closures have directly impacted frontline employment, potentially displacing thousands of roles as approximately 60% of underperforming sites are phased out by 2027, exacerbating labor turnover in a sector facing shortages for specialized positions like pharmacists. Corporate layoffs have compounded this, with cuts including 256 roles in October 2024, 80 in corporate affairs in October 2025, and additional reductions in media and internal teams in August 2025, aimed at streamlining operations post-.

Access to Affordable Healthcare

Walgreens operates over 8,000 stores in the United States, with more than half located in medically underserved communities, facilitating broader access to pharmaceuticals and basic health services for populations facing geographic or economic barriers to care. The chain accepts plans in multiple states, including all prescriptions since October 1, 2022, enabling low-income patients to fill covered medications at its pharmacies. Additionally, Walgreens participates in patient assistance programs sponsored by drug manufacturers, which provide free or discounted prescriptions to uninsured or underinsured individuals unable to afford their medications. To enhance affordability of generic drugs, Walgreens offered the Prescription Savings Club from 2007 until its discontinuation in August 2024, which provided discounted pricing on over 8,000 medications, including generics as low as $5 for a 30-day supply, for an annual membership fee of $20 per individual or $35 per family. In April 2020, the program lowered prices on hundreds of additional medications to tiers of $5, $10, or $15, expanding options for common treatments like antibiotics and chronic condition drugs. However, a 2024 class-action settlement required Walgreens to pay $100 million after allegations that insured customers were charged higher prices than club members for the same generics between 2007 and 2024, highlighting discrepancies in pricing transparency despite the program's intent to reduce costs. Walgreens has expanded into through its investment in VillageMD, committing $5.2 billion in October 2021 to open 600–700 clinics co-located in stores by 2025, targeting underserved urban and rural areas to deliver value-based integrated with pharmacy services. These Village Medical at Walgreens practices accept and in participating markets, aiming to improve preventive and management for low-income patients by reducing reliance on services. Complementary offerings include virtual healthcare consultations via licensed clinicians, providing diagnoses and prescriptions within hours at reduced costs without insurance requirements. Partnerships, such as with in 2022, have introduced no-cost health advisory services for eligible members near Walgreens locations, further bridging gaps in personalized, affordable guidance. Financial pressures have prompted Walgreens to close numerous VillageMD clinics in 2024 and explore selling its stake in the provider, potentially limiting long-term gains in access amid broader retail healthcare retrenchment. Despite these challenges, Walgreens continues to support vaccination programs, offering free flu and shots to certain insured groups like Ambetter members, alongside discounts on store-brand health products to promote preventive measures at lower costs. Current tools like the Savings Finder enable customers to apply third-party coupons for prescription discounts, sustaining some affordability mechanisms post-Savings .

Criticisms of Store Closures and Industry Pressures

In October 2024, Walgreens announced plans to close approximately 1,200 underperforming stores over the next three years, with 500 closures targeted for fiscal year 2025, citing unprofitability in about 25% of its locations amid declining front-end retail sales and pharmacy reimbursement pressures. These decisions stem from broader industry challenges, including reduced prescription drug reimbursements from pharmacy benefit managers, intensified competition from online retailers and big-box stores, and rising operational costs exacerbated by inflation. Retail theft, or "shrinkage," has further eroded profitability, prompting security measures like product lockups that inadvertently suppress impulse purchases and overall store traffic. Critics, including Democratic Senator , have argued that these closures, potentially accelerated by Walgreens' August 2025 acquisition by private equity firm , could exacerbate pharmacy deserts in low-income, rural, and minority communities, limiting access to essential medications and increasing health inequities. Such concerns highlight fears of job losses—potentially numbering in the thousands—for pharmacy staff and retail workers, with ripple effects on local economies, though company executives maintain that sustaining unprofitable outlets risks broader . Labor advocates and community groups have similarly criticized the closures for disrupting healthcare access in underserved areas, where alternative providers may be scarce, potentially forcing reliance on costlier or distant options. However, these criticisms often underemphasize the causal drivers of unprofitability, such as structural shifts in consumer behavior toward e-commerce and mail-order pharmacies, which have diminished the viability of brick-and-mortar models saturated in urban markets. Walgreens' leadership has countered that closures target specific underperformers based on local market dynamics, store footprint, and performance metrics, aiming to reallocate resources toward more efficient operations rather than blanket abandonment. Post-acquisition debt burdens from private equity involvement have fueled additional scrutiny, with analysts warning of heightened bankruptcy risks that could precipitate further rationalizations, though empirical evidence from similar deals suggests varied outcomes depending on restructuring efficacy.

References

  1. [1]
    About Us
    ### Summary of Walgreens Boots Alliance
  2. [2]
    Home - Walgreens Corporate Site
    For nearly 125 years, Walgreens has been a cornerstone in local communities, helping people live healthier lives through personal care, trusted advice and ...
  3. [3]
    History - Walgreens Boots Alliance
    Explore the rich history of Walgreens Boots Alliance. The history of WBA starts in 1849 and spans across multiple countries to create the brand you know and ...
  4. [4]
    Walgreen Co. - Company-Histories.com
    Key Dates: 1901: Charles R. Walgreen buys the drugstore on the south side of Chicago where he had been working as a pharmacist. 1909: Walgreen opens ...
  5. [5]
    Hall of Honor Inductee: Charles R. Walgreen
    Charles Rudolph Walgreen founded Walgreen Co., the global pharmacy chain. Walgreen emphasized customer service and friendliness combined with professionalism.
  6. [6]
    Walgreens reports $3B loss in Q4, plans to close 1,200 stores
    Oct 15, 2024 · Walgreens reported a loss of $3 billion in the fourth quarter and plans to close 1,200 stores over the next three years as part of the retail ...
  7. [7]
    Walgreens Agrees to Pay $106.8M to Resolve Allegations It Billed ...
    Sep 13, 2024 · Walgreens have agreed to pay $106.8 million to resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act and state statutes for billing government health care ...Missing: controversies | Show results with:controversies
  8. [8]
    [PDF] Welcome to Walgreens
    1901 – Charles R. Walgreen Sr. purchases the drugstore where he had worked as a pharmacist in Chicago, IL. 1909 – Walgreen Co. is formed and the drugstore ...Missing: early 1900s- historical
  9. [9]
    Walgreens' approach to marketing: Then and now - Hashtag Paid
    Jan 5, 2022 · 1934: Walgreens operates in 30 states with 601 stores. 1939: Charles Walgreen Sr. dies, and his son Charles R. Walgreen Jr. takes over the ...Missing: date | Show results with:date
  10. [10]
    History of Walgreen Co. – FundingUniverse
    While the number of stores grew to only 451 in 1960--from 410 in 1950--sales grew from $163 million to $312 million over the course of that decade, thanks ...
  11. [11]
    Walgreen Company | Encyclopedia.com
    Walgreen continued to expand rapidly throughout the 1970s, and by 1980 it became the first drug store company with annual sales exceeding $1 billion.Missing: 1950s 1980s 1990s<|separator|>
  12. [12]
    Changing Structures and Behaviors at Walgreens - Strategy+business
    Aug 27, 2013 · For most of the past three decades, our success came from expanding our retail footprint. That was our business strategy. We called it “seven by ...
  13. [13]
    Walgreens still on target for 7,000 stores by 2010 | Drug Store News
    Sep 24, 2007 · Walgreens revealed Sept. 5 it would open “only” 550 stores in the fiscal year that began Aug. 31, for a net gain of 475 new stores after ...
  14. [14]
    Walgreen to Buy Duane Reade for $1.1 Billion - The New York Times
    Feb 17, 2010 · Walgreen agreed to buy Duane Reade for $1.1 billion, paying $618 million in cash and assuming $457 million in debt. The deal is expected to ...
  15. [15]
    Walgreens Completes Duane Reade Acquisition - Supermarket News
    Walgreen Co. announced that it has completed the acquisition of Duane Reade Holdings, Inc. The transaction includes all 258 Duane Reade stores in the New York ...
  16. [16]
    When retailers compete with … themselves: Walgreens edition
    Mar 26, 2014 · Walgreens has made some giant acquisitions in the past few years. It purchased Kerr Drugs in 2013, USA Drug in 2012, and Duane Reade in 2010 ...
  17. [17]
    [PDF] See what we've accomplished during our 170+ years of service
    Walgreens opens its 8,000th store in Los Angeles and acquires USA. Drug, a pharmacy chain in the mid-. South U.S.. Walgreens and Alliance Boots form Walgreens ...
  18. [18]
    How Walgreens went from pharmacy behemoth to distressed retailer
    Mar 7, 2025 · 1901. Charles R. · 1909. The second Walgreens store opens. · 1926. The 100th store opens in Chicago. · 1927. Walgreens' stock goes public. · 1950.Missing: milestones | Show results with:milestones
  19. [19]
    Walgreen-Alliance Boots deal is complete - Chicago Tribune
    Dec 31, 2014 · Shareholders overwhelmingly approved that deal Monday for $15.3 billion. The acquisition greatly expands Walgreen's presence internationally.Missing: timeline | Show results with:timeline
  20. [20]
    Theranos Selects Walgreens as a Long-Term Partner Through ...
    Sep 9, 2013 · Theranos, Inc. and Walgreens (NYSE: WAG) (Nasdaq: WAG) today announced a long-term partnership to bring access to Theranos' new lab testing service through ...
  21. [21]
    Walgreens Cuts Ties With Blood-Test Company Theranos - NPR
    Jun 13, 2016 · Walgreens entered into a partnership three years ago with Theranos, which offered simpler blood-testing methods using a few drops of blood from a finger prick.
  22. [22]
    In Latest Devastating Blow To Theranos, Walgreens Terminates ...
    Jun 13, 2016 · In Latest Devastating Blow To Theranos, Walgreens Terminates Partnership. The 40 Theranos blood-draw sites inside Walgreens stores in Arizona ...
  23. [23]
    Walgreens Reviews 2010 Performance, Progress and Future ...
    Jan 12, 2011 · Walgreens launched its Optimal Wellness program, a self-care educational program for patients with chronic and complex medical conditions.
  24. [24]
    Walgreens Way to Well Commitment™ to Provide $100 Million in ...
    Feb 1, 2011 · Through the Way to Well Commitment, Walgreens will bring $100 million in preventive health care resources, health testing services and ...
  25. [25]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Reports Fiscal Year 2024 Earnings
    Oct 15, 2024 · Future expected store closures of approximately 1,200 includes approximately 300 stores previously approved under the Transformational Cost ...
  26. [26]
    Walgreens Says It Will Close 1,200 Stores - The New York Times
    Oct 15, 2024 · About 500 of the closures will take place in the current fiscal year, which runs through September 2025, but the company did not say where they ...
  27. [27]
    Inside Walgreens' $90 billion meltdown - Fortune
    Jun 17, 2025 · Walgreens' lost decade: How M&A mania and retail neglect shrunk a $100 billion giant to a $10 billion private equity gamble.
  28. [28]
    Walgreens turnaround continues with 450 stores to be closed this year
    Jan 16, 2025 · Those 1,200 stores will be closed over three years, with about 500 to be closed in the company's fiscal year 2025, which ends in August 2025, ...<|separator|>
  29. [29]
    Walgreens reports $2.8B loss, cuts costs in Q2 as drugstore chain ...
    Apr 8, 2025 · Walgreens reported a loss of $2.85 billion in its fiscal second quarter, pulled down by a hefty impairment charge related to its investment in primary care ...Missing: 2020s | Show results with:2020s
  30. [30]
    Sycamore Partners Completes Acquisition of Walgreens Boots ...
    Aug 28, 2025 · NEW YORK–Aug. 28, 2025—Sycamore Partners (“Sycamore”) announced today that it has completed its acquisition of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.Missing: developments restructuring 2020-2025
  31. [31]
    Walgreens' Debt Restructuring: Strategic Implications for Credit ...
    Aug 27, 2025 · - Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) is restructuring $13.7B in debt via tender offers and a Sycamore merger to reduce leverage and stabilize credit ...Missing: developments 2020-2025
  32. [32]
    Walgreens says new small-format store personalizes care ... - CNBC
    Jun 30, 2020 · Small-format pharmacies are about a quarter of the size of the Walgreens' typical store, which average about 13,500 square feet. The stores have ...
  33. [33]
    New looks, exciting possibilities | Walgreens Boots Alliance
    Jun 19, 2023 · With a distinctly different layout from traditional Walgreens stores ... format, including new aisle signs and an overall store directory ...Missing: types | Show results with:types
  34. [34]
    Walgreens testing more small-format concept stores
    Aug 13, 2024 · In 2019 the company started testing small format stores that are about 20-25% the size of a typical store. The small-format stores have ...
  35. [35]
    Report: Walgreens Tests 30 Small-Format Stores Emphasizing ...
    Jul 1, 2020 · Walgreens Boots Alliance has rolled out 30 small-format pharmacies as part of a pilot test of stores with fewer front-of-store items and over-the-counter ...
  36. [36]
    Walgreens testing smaller store format: 8 things to know
    Jun 30, 2020 · Walgreens is testing a new type of store that cuts down on square footage and emphasizes the pharmacy. Internally, the pilot project is dubbed “Cooper,” ...
  37. [37]
    Walgreens unveils redesigned store with only two aisles and most ...
    Jun 9, 2023 · The new Walgreens store now has only two aisles for shoppers ... The store is one-of-a-kind. The retailer said the concept is testing ...
  38. [38]
    Walgreens CEO describes drawback of anti-shoplifting strategy
    Jan 14, 2025 · The company plans to close approximately 450 additional stores in 2025, noting that the stores that remain open outperform the ones designated ...
  39. [39]
    Map Shows Where Walgreens Is Closing Locations - Newsweek
    Aug 11, 2025 · In October 2024, Walgreens announced that it would be closing 1,200 stores over the next three years after reporting a net loss of $3 ...
  40. [40]
    Walgreens Q1 FY25: Footprint optimization begins - Kantar Retail IQ
    Jan 14, 2025 · Walgreens Boots Alliance began FY 2025 by closing 67 of the 1,200 stores it plans to shutter in the US over the next three years.
  41. [41]
    Walgreens After Sycamore: What Shrink-to-Core Means for Retail Real
    Sep 29, 2025 · The plan is a leaner, more disciplined company. That means fewer stores, tighter cost controls and sharper focus on the most productive corners.
  42. [42]
    EMARKETER Podcast: Behind the Numbers: Walgreens' Identity Crisis
    Mar 24, 2025 · And they said last year that they're going to expand the number of these smaller format stores that are really designed around medications and ...<|separator|>
  43. [43]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Reports Fiscal 2025 First Quarter Results
    Jan 10, 2025 · WBA first quarter sales increased 7.5 percent from the year-ago quarter to $39.5 billion, an increase of 6.9 percent on a constant currency basis.<|separator|>
  44. [44]
    Walgreens Pharmacy | Manage Prescriptions, Transfers, and Refills
    Check your prescription status, transfer a prescription, manage refills, chat with a pharmacist, and more. Save time and money with Walgreens Pharmacy.
  45. [45]
    Pharmacy Compounding Services - Walgreens
    We offer basic medication compounding at all neighborhood Walgreens pharmacies. We also offer more complex and even hazardous drug compounding services at ...
  46. [46]
    U.S. Retail Pharmacy Segment - Walgreens Boots Alliance
    Walgreens has approximately 220,000 team members, including nearly 90,000 healthcare service providers, and is committed to being the first choice for retail ...
  47. [47]
    Specialty Pharmacy - Walgreens
    Our services are designed to help you better understand and manage your condition and medication therapy to enhance your quality of life. Our skilled ...Sign in · Fertility · Financial Assistance
  48. [48]
    Immunization Services, History and Records | Walgreens
    Stay up to date on your vaccines and stay protected against Flu, COVID-19, shingles, and more. Schedule today and view vaccine records at Walgreens.com.COVID-19 vaccine information · Schedule TDAP Vaccine · RSV Vaccine
  49. [49]
    Schedule Vaccine Appointments - Walgreens
    Schedule a vaccination appointment online at Walgreens.com. Get a Flu, COVID-19, or travel vaccine at a Walgreens near you.
  50. [50]
    Walgreens Enhances Staffing, Operations to Meet 2025 Influenza ...
    Aug 20, 2025 · Walgreens has expanded staffing models—adding technician hours, contract immunizers, and communication quiet periods—to ease pharmacy workload ...Missing: expansions | Show results with:expansions
  51. [51]
    Schedule Free COVID-19 Vaccines - Walgreens
    Find information and answers to your questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, including scheduling, kid's shots, boosters, additional doses, records and more.
  52. [52]
    Find Care | Services - Walgreens
    Screenings, health support, in-store clinic visits & more. Get started ... healthcare services. All healthcare organizations listed in the Find Care ...In-person CareLabs & tests
  53. [53]
    Community Clinic at Walgreens
    Speak with a licensed medical professional at a Walgreens location with Community Clinic. Available for physical exams, minor illnesses and conditions.
  54. [54]
    Walgreens Virtual Healthcare: Online Doctor & Prescriptions
    Online doctor visits, on demand. See a doctor or nurse practitioner online, get a diagnosis and fill prescriptions, if needed, from the comfort of home.
  55. [55]
    Walgreens Launches Gene and Cell Services as Part of Newly ...
    Apr 25, 2024 · Walgreens is expanding its specialty pharmacy services and investing in its capabilities as the company further grows its core pharmacy ...<|separator|>
  56. [56]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Makes $5.2 Billion Investment in ...
    Oct 14, 2021 · Walgreens Boots Alliance Makes $5.2 Billion Investment in VillageMD to Deliver Value-Based Primary Care to Communities Across America.
  57. [57]
    Walgreens and VillageMD to Open 500 to 700 Full-Service Doctor ...
    Jul 8, 2020 · This expanded partnership will open 500 to 700 “Village Medical at Walgreens” physician-led primary care clinics in more than 30 US markets in the next five ...
  58. [58]
    Walgreens and VillageMD Expand Full-Service Primary Care ...
    Nov 14, 2022 · Coordinated primary care and pharmacy services help patients better manage their health, through easy access and high-quality care.
  59. [59]
    Walgreens and VillageMD Expand in Arizona with 22 Full-Service ...
    The 22 Village Medical at Walgreens locations in Arizona will create more than 800 jobs within the community.
  60. [60]
    Walgreens mulls full sale of primary care business VillageMD
    Aug 9, 2024 · Drugstore chain Walgreens is considering a full sale of its stake in VillageMD after investing billions in the primary care provider.
  61. [61]
    Walgreens-backed VillageMD rethinks its strategy
    Feb 23, 2024 · Walgreens' decision to close dozens of VillageMD primary care clinics attached to its stores has left some industry watchers questioning ...
  62. [62]
    Walgreens, CVS and Walmart Scale Back on Health Care amid ...
    approximately half of its footprint — due to rising operational costs, marking a significant ...Missing: 2020s | Show results with:2020s
  63. [63]
    Walgreens invests $1B in primary care clinics with VillageMD deal
    Jul 8, 2020 · VillageMD will use 80% of the funds to pay for opening the clinics, called Village Medical at Walgreens, and integrate digitally with Walgreens.<|separator|>
  64. [64]
    Distribution - Walgreens Careers
    Our warehouses are fully stocked with opportunities. We've created a sophisticated distribution system – streamlining and simplifying the entire process from ...Micro-Fulfillment Center · Search Jobs · Distribution Center Supervisor
  65. [65]
    [PDF] LOGISTICS & DISTRIBUTION - Orlando Business
    LOGISTICS & DISTRIBUTION. Leading Employers - Orlando MSA. Company. County. City ... Walgreens Distribution Center. Orange. Orlando. Distribution. Pharma ...<|separator|>
  66. [66]
    Walgreens Distribution Center – West Palm Beach, FL
    The center represents the latest in state-of-the-art logistics and distribution. The project has four major components: the main warehouse, a shipping wing, a ...
  67. [67]
    Walgreens to increase stores serviced by micro-fulfillment centers
    Jan 22, 2025 · Walgreens plans to increase the number of stores serviced by its micro-fulfillment centers, growing the number “closer to 6,000” in the next 12 ...
  68. [68]
    Walgreens to increase stores serviced by micro-fulfillment centers
    Jan 22, 2025 · Walgreens to increase stores serviced by micro-fulfillment centers. Oops, something went wrong.
  69. [69]
    Walgreens partners with TradeBeyond to enhance sourcing
    Jun 27, 2024 · Walgreens Boots Alliance Global Sourcing will aim to enhance its sourcing practices using supply chain management solution provider TradeBeyond's platform.
  70. [70]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance to Deploy Unified Sourcing Platform ...
    Jun 26, 2024 · Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) will optimize and standardize sourcing across its operations with a platform from TradeBeyond that the retailer will use to ...
  71. [71]
    Walgreens standardizing sourcing on enterprise platform
    Jun 25, 2024 · "TradeBeyond will support us to deliver improved supply chain transparency, increased speed to market, a unified process for our operations, and ...
  72. [72]
    Palantir Reinvents Wendy's Supply Chain, Walgreens' Operations
    Apr 29, 2025 · Palantir uses digital twins to unify fragmented data sources from retail operations at Wendy's and Walgreens, giving the companies with real-time visibility.
  73. [73]
    Here's why Walgreens is doing something brilliant as it expands use ...
    May 13, 2025 · Walgreens is expanding the number of stores served by its micro-fulfillment centres to fill thousands of prescriptions for patients.
  74. [74]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance puts customers first in its digital ... - Microsoft
    Aug 3, 2020 · WBA is on a digital transformation journey that seeks to modernize IT operations, the workplace, and the healthcare industry.
  75. [75]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Advances Transformation of its Global ...
    “WBA is building a scalable, sustainable and globally unified IT operating model that is focused on digital transformation, automation of service delivery and ...
  76. [76]
    WBA (Walgreens Boots Alliance) Digital Transformation Strategy ...
    Jan 11, 2024 · The company is creating a connected consumer-centric healthcare delivery and management platform by transitioning its IT platforms to Microsoft ...
  77. [77]
    Walgreens Brand
    4.5 1.4K · Store nearby · Free delivery over $35Shop Walgreens Brand and receive Free 1-hour Delivery on $20+ Walgreens branded products. Pickup & Same Day Delivery available on most store items.Shop All Walgreens Brand · Medicines & Treatments · Vitamins & Supplements
  78. [78]
    Walgreens Brand
    Try these Walgreens-owned brand suggestions based on your search. 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Walgreens At-Home COVID-19 Te... - 1 set ratings 3.9 out of 5 ...
  79. [79]
    Nice! - Walgreens
    Enjoy high-quality Nice! for You branded products, thoughtfully formulated with no artificial flavors or sweeteners and no synthetic dyes, all at a great price, ...Snacks · Candy & Chocolate · Nuts & Seeds
  80. [80]
    Walgreens expands private label portfolio | Food Business News
    Jul 31, 2024 · The Nice For You! lineup includes more than 150 items across the snack, beverage, baking and grocery categories, such as jerky, oatmeal, nuts and trail mixes.
  81. [81]
    Walgreens Expands Nice! Private Label Assortment - Store Brands
    Jul 15, 2024 · Walgreens is expanding its Nice! brand with the debut of the Nice! For You line of products the retailer is positioning as a “new tier” for the private brand.
  82. [82]
    Walgreens is revamping its private-label category to drive purchases
    Jun 17, 2019 · In May, the drugstore chain launched a new private-label line called Complete Home, which includes paper and plastic products, household ...
  83. [83]
    Walgreens Launches Private Label Skincare Line - Happi
    Walgreens Premium Skin Care line includes nine products, all priced under $23. Lineup includes lip mask, facial cream and sunscreen.
  84. [84]
    Walgreens launches private label skin care line - Supermarket News
    Sep 9, 2024 · Walgreens has launched a new premium private label skin care line, designed to give customers premium quality without the premium price tag.<|separator|>
  85. [85]
    Walgreens History: Visualizing Our Past, Owned Brand Innovation
    Dec 12, 2024 · In this latest episode of Visualizing Our Past, we dive into the history of owned brand innovation that dates back to 1910.Missing: 1950s- 1990s
  86. [86]
    Walgreens adds health-focused private label tier - Grocery Dive
    Jul 17, 2024 · Walgreens has launched an assortment of health-focused foods and drinks under its Nice! private label line, the pharmacy chain announced Tuesday ...
  87. [87]
  88. [88]
    Walgreens takes $6B hit in Q2 from VillageMD investment
    Mar 28, 2024 · Walgreens reported a steep quarterly loss, reflecting a nearly $6 billion write-down in the value of its investment in primary care clinic chain VillageMD.
  89. [89]
    Walgreens and BARDA Form Strategic Partnership to Strengthen ...
    Aug 19, 2024 · This first-of-its-kind collaboration between Walgreens and US government aims to address barriers in decentralized clinical trial access and conduct trials ...
  90. [90]
    Walgreens and Pearl Health Announce Strategic Partnership
    Sep 12, 2023 · Walgreens and Pearl Health, a leading provider enablement company, today announced a partnership to accelerate the expansion of value-based care.
  91. [91]
    Walgreens and Veeva Form Strategic Partnership
    Oct 24, 2024 · Walgreens today announced a long-term partnership to help life sciences companies improve patient outcomes.
  92. [92]
    Rx Savings Finder - Find coupons for Prescriptions | Walgreens
    Discover ways to save on your prescriptions at Walgreens with the Rx Savings Finder. Access third-party discount coupons that can be applied to your Rx.Missing: third- | Show results with:third-
  93. [93]
    DoorDash and Walgreens Launch Unprecedented Access for SNAP ...
    Apr 24, 2024 · DoorDash is the first platform that enables SNAP customers to make purchases directly from Walgreens using their SNAP/EBT cards.
  94. [94]
    Walgreens Partners With DoorDash in the On-Demand Economy | CO
    Sep 16, 2020 · Customers can get 5,000-plus health, beauty, grocery and other non-prescription items delivered within 30 minutes via the DoorDash app. The ...
  95. [95]
    Walgreens Introduces New Digital Marketplace Featuring 17 ...
    Jul 26, 2018 · Other specialist offerings include behavioral health therapists, optometrists, dermatologists, hearing care professionals and diagnostic lab ...
  96. [96]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) - Revenue - Companies Market Cap
    Current and historical revenue charts for Walgreens Boots Alliance. As of October 2025 Walgreens Boots Alliance's TTM revenue is of $154.58 Billion USD.
  97. [97]
  98. [98]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) - Earnings - Companies Market Cap
    The earnings displayed on this page is the company's Pretax Income. Earnings history for Walgreens Boots Alliance from 1996 to 2025. 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 ...
  99. [99]
    Walgreens EBIT 2010-2025 | WBA - Macrotrends
    Walgreens 2024 EBIT was -13.864B, a 109.14% increase from 2023. Walgreens 2023 EBIT was -6.629B, a 466.85% decline from 2022. Walgreens 2022 EBIT was 1.807B ...
  100. [100]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) Financials - Income Statement
    Detailed annual and quarterly income statement for Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA). See many years of revenue, expenses and profits or losses.
  101. [101]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Reports Fiscal Year 2023 Earnings
    Oct 12, 2023 · WBA fourth quarter sales increased 9.2 percent from the year-ago quarter to $35.4 billion, an increase of 8.3 percent on a constant currency ...
  102. [102]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Reports Fiscal Year 2020 Results
    Oct 15, 2020 · Sales increased 2.3 percent to $34.7 billion, up 2.3 percent on a constant currency basis · Operating income decreased 26.0 percent to $650 ...
  103. [103]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Reports Fiscal Year 2023 Earnings
    Oct 12, 2023 · WBA fourth quarter sales increased 9.2 percent from the year-ago quarter to $35.4 billion, an increase of 8.3 percent on a constant currency basis.
  104. [104]
  105. [105]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) - Total debt - Companies Market Cap
    According to Walgreens Boots Alliance's latest financial reports the company's total debt is $29.03 Billion USD. A company's total debt is the sum of all ...Missing: key metrics
  106. [106]
    WBA - Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. - Data Insights Market
    Aug 28, 2025 · This summary provides a comprehensive overview of Walgreens Boots Alliance's (WBA) first quarter fiscal year 2025 earnings call, highlighting ...
  107. [107]
  108. [108]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Reports Fiscal 2025 Third Quarter Results
    Jun 26, 2025 · WBA third quarter sales increased 7.2 percent from the year-ago quarter to $39.0 billion, an increase of 6.9 percent on a constant currency basis.Missing: 2020-2025 | Show results with:2020-2025<|separator|>
  109. [109]
    Walgreens to shut 1,200 stores as CEO Wentworth seeks turnaround
    Oct 15, 2024 · Walgreens Boots Alliance said on Tuesday it would shut 1200 stores over the next three years as new CEO Tim Wentworth plots a turnaround at ...
  110. [110]
    Walgreens closing 1,200 stores as part of financial turnaround play
    Oct 15, 2024 · According to Wentworth, all but 2,000 of its 8,000 retail pharmacies are profitable. The closure of 1,200 stores “will enable us to respond more ...Missing: savings target
  111. [111]
    Walgreens turnaround continues with 450 stores to be closed this year
    Jan 16, 2025 · Walgreens plans to close 1200 stores over three years. After 70 closed September to November 2024, 450 more will close in 2025, the company ...
  112. [112]
    Strategy of Walgreens Boots Alliance - Umbrex
    Moreover, WBA anticipates adjusted earnings per share (EPS) for fiscal 2025 to be between $1.40 and $1.80, with projected sales of $147 billion to $151 billion.
  113. [113]
    Walgreens suspends dividend in latest cost-cutting measure
    Jan 31, 2025 · The dividend suspension is the company's latest move to cut costs as it implements turnaround measures. The initiatives include a plan announced ...
  114. [114]
    Walgreens goes private as Sycamore closes deal, Staples CEO to ...
    including shuttering stores and reducing store sizes — to help boost ...Missing: cost | Show results with:cost
  115. [115]
    Walgreens: a short history | Retail industry - The Guardian
    Jun 19, 2012 · Walgreens, America's largest chain of pharmacies, traces its roots back to 1901, when Charles R Walgreen set up in Chicago.<|separator|>
  116. [116]
    Walgreens is going private in an up to $24 billion deal | CNN Business
    Mar 6, 2025 · Walgreens Boots Alliance is being taken private in a deal valued up to $23.7 billion, following a largely disastrous run on the public markets.
  117. [117]
    Walgreens Boot Alliance Inc. Downgraded To 'BB-' - S&P Global
    Dec 31, 2024 · In the international segment (approximately 40% of 2025 expected operating income), we expect continued growth and efficiency improvement to ...
  118. [118]
    Joint Press Release of Walgreen Co. and Alliance Boots - SEC.gov
    Jun 19, 2012 · This is equivalent to $2.7 billion, at the Walgreens closing share price of $31.96 on June 18, 2012. The owners of Alliance Boots will enter ...
  119. [119]
    Completion of Initial Investment in Strategic Partnership between ...
    Aug 2, 2012 · The Walgreens investment consists of approximately $4.0 billion in cash and 83.4 million shares of Walgreens common stock in exchange for a 45% ...
  120. [120]
    Walgreen to Take Stake in Alliance Boots for $6.7 Billion - DealBook
    Jun 19, 2012 · The drugstore chain has the option to buy the remaining 55 percent stake in Alliance Boots three years after the deal closes, for $9.5 billion ...Missing: details | Show results with:details
  121. [121]
    Walgreens and Alliance Boots Complete Step 2 of Merger to Form ...
    Walgreen Co. and Alliance Boots GmbH today completed Step 2 of their strategic partnership to form Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA).
  122. [122]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Form: 10-K, Received - EDGAR Online
    On August 2, 2012, Walgreens acquired a 45% equity interest in Alliance Boots GmbH (“Alliance Boots”) along with a call option to acquire the remaining 55 ...<|separator|>
  123. [123]
    424B3 - SEC.gov
    We are very pleased to enclose the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the acquisition of the remaining 55% of Alliance Boots GmbH (“Alliance Boots”)
  124. [124]
    List of 12 Acquisitions by Walgreens (Jul 2025) - Tracxn
    Jul 17, 2025 · Walgreens has made a total of 6 acquisitions. These acquisitions span 5 sectors, including Healthcare IT (2), Music Tech (1), and Healthcare ...
  125. [125]
    [PDF] EXHIBIT A - National Opioids Settlement
    Aug 12, 2022 · This case is part of a nationwide opioid litigation. Walgreens was the sole remaining defendant, found to have contributed to the opioid ...
  126. [126]
    Walgreens Agrees To Pay A Record Settlement Of $80 Million For ...
    Jun 11, 2013 · Walgreens (Walgreens), the nation's largest drug store chain, has agreed to pay $80 million in civil penalties, resolving the DEA's administrative actions.Missing: oversight | Show results with:oversight
  127. [127]
    Walgreens Agrees To Pay A Record Settlement Of $80 Million For ...
    Jun 11, 2013 · First, the Jupiter Distribution Center failed to comply with DEA regulations that required it to report to the DEA suspicious prescription drug ...
  128. [128]
    [PDF] in the united states district court - City Attorney of San Francisco
    Aug 10, 2022 · Walgreens' Failure to Monitor and Report Suspicious Orders. In 2006, a DEA audit of Walgreens' Perrysburg, Ohio distribution center found that.
  129. [129]
    Judge: Walgreens helped fuel San Francisco's opioid crisis
    Aug 10, 2022 · ... Walgreens displayed in failing to stop the opioid epidemic in San Francisco. ... failure to surveil suspicious orders. Walgreens stopped ...Missing: monitoring | Show results with:monitoring
  130. [130]
    Paxton Secures $340 Million for Texas in Opioid Settlement With ...
    May 27, 2023 · Attorney General Paxton announced a $5.7 billion settlement with Walgreens, with over $340 million designated for Texas, for their role in the nationwide ...
  131. [131]
    Nevada secures $285 million opioid settlement with Walgreens - PBS
    Jul 6, 2023 · Announced by state Attorney General Aaron Ford on Wednesday, it is the last in a series of multiyear settlements Nevada has reached with ...
  132. [132]
    [PDF] WALGREENS SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT
    WALGREENS SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT. This Settlement Agreement, dated as of December 9, 2022 (the "Agreement"), sets forth the terms of settlement between and ...
  133. [133]
    Walgreens Agrees to Pay Up to $350M for Illegally Filling Unlawful ...
    Apr 21, 2025 · Walgreens agrees to pay up to $350M for illegally filling unlawful opioid prescriptions and for submitting false claims to the federal government.Missing: date | Show results with:date
  134. [134]
    Manhattan U.S. Attorney Announces $269.2 Million Recovery From ...
    Jan 22, 2019 · Paul Oetken and unsealed today, requires WALGREENS to pay $60 million to resolve allegations that it overbilled Medicaid by failing to disclose ...Missing: audits | Show results with:audits
  135. [135]
    Walgreen Co. Agrees to Pay Over $2.8 Million to Settle Allegations ...
    Mar 27, 2025 · Agrees to Pay Over $2.8 Million to Settle Allegations of Overbilling Medicaid Programs ... Fraud Division; Assistant Attorney General Richard ...Missing: Medicare | Show results with:Medicare
  136. [136]
    Walgreens to Pay $3.5 Million to Settle Hazardous Waste Claims
    Dec 23, 2020 · Walgreen Co. will pay $3.5 million to resolve allegations that the drug store giant unlawfully disposed of hazardous waste in violation of ...
  137. [137]
    Walgreens Fined For Improper Waste Disposal - Are You Next?
    Jan 20, 2021 · Walgreens was fined for improperly dumping hazardous waste, including medications, cleaning agents, and electronics, and for mishandling ...
  138. [138]
    Walgreens to Pay $16.57M for Illegal Dumping of Waste, Records
    Dec 13, 2012 · Under the settlement, Walgreen Co. will pay $223,000 to San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and $507,750 to the San Diego County ...
  139. [139]
    Walgreens to Pay $16.5M for Improper Waste Disposal, Privacy ...
    Dec 13, 2012 · Walgreens ... to pay $16.57 million to settle a civil environmental lawsuit for hazardous waste disposal violations, officials announced Thursday.
  140. [140]
    Illegal dumping has Walgreens paying millions - FOX 5 San Diego
    Walgreens agreed to pay $16.57 million to settle a lawsuit alleging that more than 600 of its stores in California — including ...
  141. [141]
    CARB fines large retailers for exceeding levels of smog-forming ...
    Feb 19, 2020 · In total, the violations of the regulation were responsible for 3.72 tons of the smog-forming VOCs. Products labeled not for sale in California.
  142. [142]
    Walgreen Company - 662158 - 09/12/2023 - FDA
    Sep 12, 2023 · This letter concerns your firm's drug listing information provided to FDA's electronic Drug Registration and Listing System (eDRLS) for your drug product.Missing: operational OSHA
  143. [143]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. - 663404 - 09/11/2023 - FDA
    Sep 11, 2023 · This letter is to advise you that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed your website at the Internet address www.walgreens.com in ...Missing: operational OSHA
  144. [144]
    Walgreens | Occupational Safety and Health Administration osha.gov
    For workplace safety and health, please call 800-321-6742; for mine safety and health, please call 800-746-1153; for Job Corps, please call 800-733-5627 and ...
  145. [145]
    Tucker v. Walgreen Co. - Dardarian, Ho, Kan & Lee
    Plaintiffs alleged that Walgreens' employment practices resulted in discrimination in promotions of African Americans and assignment of African Americans to ...
  146. [146]
    EEOC AND WALGREENS RESOLVE LAWSUIT
    Jul 12, 2007 · Earp, Chair of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), today announced a $20 million proposed consent decree resolving a ...
  147. [147]
    Case: Tucker v. Walgreen Company
    Tucker v. Walgreen Company is a racial discrimination lawsuit filed by African American employees against Walgreens, alleging systemic discrimination.
  148. [148]
    Walgreens Settles EEOC Disability Discrimination Suit for $180,000
    Walgreens Settles EEOC Disability Discrimination Suit for $180,000. Walgreens ... The EEOC enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination.
  149. [149]
    EEOC Settles Federal Disability Discrimination Suit Against Walgreens
    Rating 5.0 (2) The EEOC sued Walgreens in federal district court in California for discrimination on the basis of disability in violation of the Americans with Disabilities ...
  150. [150]
    Pharmacy tech fired for dispensing errors sues Walgreens, citing ...
    May 19, 2025 · An Iowa pharmacy tech fired for medication-dispensing errors alleges her attention-deficit disorder was a factor in her job performance.<|control11|><|separator|>
  151. [151]
    Walgreens Pays $205,000 in EEOC Pregnancy and Disability ...
    Mar 15, 2024 · Walgreens Pays $205,000 in EEOC Pregnancy and Disability Discrimination Lawsuit. Settles Federal Charges That Alexandria Pharmacy Refused to ...
  152. [152]
    Walgreens Sued by EEOC for Pregnancy and Disability Discrimination
    Sep 28, 2022 · Walgreens Sued by EEOC ... The EEOC advances opportunity in the workplace by enforcing federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination.
  153. [153]
    Walgreens Agrees to Settle Fired Pharmacist Retaliation Suit (1)
    Jul 29, 2025 · ... involved a rejected claim that Walgreens retaliated against and ultimately fired him after he complained about race discrimination.
  154. [154]
    Walgreens sued over failure to tackle worker's claims of violence ...
    Oct 14, 2025 · The case also includes claims of workplace harassment, racial discrimination, and multiple violations of California's Labor Code. A ...
  155. [155]
    ICRC: Walgreens faces disability discrimination charge
    Walgreens faces disability discrimination charge. ICRC · Newsroom; Current ... Evidence shows that Walgreens failed to rebut Complainant's claims despite repeated ...
  156. [156]
    Walgreens Workers to Receive $4.5M In Unpaid Wages
    Walgreens employees have just received a preliminary approval from a federal judge in California approving a $4.5 million settlement for claims of unpaid wages.
  157. [157]
    Walgreens class action alleges company failed to provide rest, meal ...
    Aug 8, 2025 · A former Walgreens employee accuses the pharmacy chain of failing to provide meal breaks and reimburse business expenses to hourly, non-exempt ...
  158. [158]
    Walgreens Settles FCRA Class Action Lawsuit: Implications for ...
    Jul 24, 2024 · Walgreens recently settled a case alleging that the national drugstore chain violated the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) by sending a disposition ...
  159. [159]
    Walgreens settles lawsuit with Theranos patients for $44 million
    Sep 11, 2023 · Walgreens settled a class action lawsuit on Sept. 6 with Theranos customers for $44 million, per court documents.
  160. [160]
    Theranos Walgreens Blood Test Fraud - Lieff Cabraser
    The lawsuit seeks damages, including reimbursement of the amounts paid by consumers for the voided tests, as well as an injunction to prevent Theranos and ...
  161. [161]
    Walgreens to pay $44M to settle claims over fraudulent Theranos tests
    Sep 8, 2023 · If a judge approves the settlement, patients who bought a Theranos blood test would receive double the amount they paid for it.
  162. [162]
    Walgreens agrees to pay $44M to settle Theranos-linked claims
    Sep 8, 2023 · Walgreens has agreed to pay $44 million to settle a class-action lawsuit from customers who sued after submitting to faulty blood tests ...
  163. [163]
    Walgreens Products Recalled in All 50 States: Full List of Items ...
    Mar 20, 2025 · A nationwide recall has been issued for several acne treatment products sold at Walgreens due to concerns over elevated levels of benzene, a known carcinogen.Missing: controversies | Show results with:controversies
  164. [164]
    Walgreens agrees to pay $100 mln to resolve lawsuit over ... - Reuters
    Nov 4, 2024 · The lawsuit alleged that the prices Walgreens charged to its savings club members were its "usual and customary" prices, and that the prices it ...
  165. [165]
    Walgreens to pay $100M to resolve lawsuit over generic drug pricing
    Nov 4, 2024 · Walgreens has agreed to pay $100 million to settle a proposed class action lawsuit accusing it of fraudulently overcharging customers for a decade.
  166. [166]
    Walgreens to pay Humana $360M to settle drug pricing dispute
    Jan 9, 2024 · Walgreens has agreed to pay Humana $360 million to settle a lawsuit accusing the pharmacy giant of overcharging for prescription drugs for over ...
  167. [167]
    Walgreens Reaches $360 Million Settlement with Humana ...
    Mar 27, 2024 · In January 2024, Walgreens and Humana reached a $360 million settlement to resolve ongoing lawsuits where Humana argued that Walgreens ...
  168. [168]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Announces Transition of Leadership to ...
    Jan 26, 2021 · Stefano Pessina Has Informed the Board of His Decision to Step Down as CEO, to Become Executive Chairman of the Board Once New CEO Is Named.
  169. [169]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Appoints Rosalind Brewer as Chief ...
    Jan 26, 2021 · Brewer Is a 35-Year Consumer and Retail Industry Veteran with Deep Experience in Transformational, Operational and Digital Strategies.
  170. [170]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Announces Leadership Transition
    Sep 1, 2023 · Roz Brewer was named Chief Executive Officer of WBA in March 2021, just as COVID-19 vaccines were becoming available to the American people. She ...
  171. [171]
    Walgreens Is In Transition – A New CEO – Hundreds Of Stores ...
    Jan 1, 2024 · Walgreens Boots Alliance WBA0.0% is in transformation. Just before announcing the year-end results in October, Tim Wentworth was appointed ...
  172. [172]
    Walgreen Co. To Operate as Private Standalone Company ...
    Aug 28, 2025 · Appoints Mike Motz as Chief Executive Officer. Deerfield, Ill.—Aug. 28, 2025—Walgreen Co. (“Walgreens”, or the “Company”), America's leading ...Missing: 2023 2024<|separator|>
  173. [173]
    Walgreens names retail veteran Mike Motz as CEO after Sycamore ...
    Aug 28, 2025 · Wentworth, who took the helm in 2023, spearheaded a turnaround at the company through cost cuts, including the removal of multiple mid-level ...
  174. [174]
    Walgreens Is Officially Privately Held With New CEO From Staples
    Aug 28, 2025 · With the new owners brings a new Walgreens CEO, replacing Tim Wentworth, who has run Walgreens for the last two years. Wentworth is being ...
  175. [175]
    425
    Under the terms of the agreement announced on August 6, 2014, Walgreens will acquire the remaining 55 percent of Alliance Boots in exchange for £3,133 million ...
  176. [176]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) Institutional Ownership - MarketBeat
    Walgreens Boots Alliance Major Shareholders & Ownership History ; 8/15/2025, Moore Capital Management LP, 120,000 ; 8/15/2025, Man Group plc, 1,018,211 ; 8/15/2025 ...
  177. [177]
    Private Equity | Sycamore Partners | March 06 2025
    Mar 6, 2025 · March 06, 2025. Walgreens Boots Alliance Enters into Definitive Agreement to Be Acquired by Sycamore Partners ...
  178. [178]
    Equity Corporate Actions Alert #2025 - 463 (UPDATED: Merger ...
    Aug 25, 2025 · (UPDATED: Merger closed) Information Regarding the Merger of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. ... value of approximately $13 trillion. To ...
  179. [179]
    Sycamore Partners closes Walgreens acquisition, splits ... - Retail Dive
    Sep 2, 2025 · Sycamore Partners closes Walgreens acquisition, splits retailer into 5 companies ... Mike Motz has been named the CEO of Walgreens. He was ...
  180. [180]
    International Segment | Walgreens Boots Alliance
    Number of Retail Stores by Country ; United Kingdom, 1,840 ; Mexico, 1,183 ; Thailand, 246 ; Republic of Ireland, 95.
  181. [181]
    Number of Walgreens locations in the USA in 2025 - ScrapeHero
    Oct 15, 2025 · There are 8,058 Walgreens pharmacies in the United States as of October 15, 2025. The state and territory with the most number of Walgreens ...
  182. [182]
    15 largest pharmacies in the US | Healthcare News & Analysis
    $$100.7 billion (14.7% market share) · 2. Walgreens Boots Alliance — $99.5 billion (14.6% market share) · 3. Cigna — $72.5 billion ...
  183. [183]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance (LON:0LSZ) Number of Employees
    As of August 31, 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance had 312,000 total employees, including 193,000 full-time and 119,000 part-time employees. The number of ...
  184. [184]
    Walgreens Boots Alliance - Fortune
    Walgreens Boots Alliance is a global health care, pharmacy, and retail company. It operates tens of thousands of retail locations under the Walgreens and Duane ...
  185. [185]
    Jobs under threat as Walgreens to close 1,200 stores by 2027
    Aug 26, 2025 · "In fiscal 2025, we are focusing on stabilizing the retail pharmacy by optimizing our footprint, controlling operating costs, improving cash ...Missing: initiatives | Show results with:initiatives
  186. [186]
    Walgreens lays off another 80 corporate workers - Supermarket News
    Oct 16, 2025 · In October 2024, Walgreens eliminated 256 additional corporate roles and announced plans to close approximately 1,200 stores. Related:Rite ...
  187. [187]
    Walgreens announces more layoffs as part of turnaround strategy
    Nov 4, 2024 · Walgreens is set to lay off 256 employees in its latest move to cut costs in a year that's seen the retail pharmacy giant's shares plummet 63%.
  188. [188]
    Walgreens lays off 80 corporate employees
    Oct 15, 2025 · Newly private Walgreens Boots Alliance has fired 80 employees this week from its corporate offices in Chicago and Deerfield, according to an ...
  189. [189]
    Health Equity - Walgreens
    We help eliminate barriers by providing pharmacy and healthcare services whenever and wherever our customers need us by meeting people where they are and how ...
  190. [190]
    Medicaid Healthcare Coverage and Qualifications - Walgreens
    Walgreens accepts all Ohio Medicaid plans. Effective October 1, 2022, all Ohio Medicaid members are able to fill prescriptions at Walgreens. · Walgreens accepts ...
  191. [191]
    Patient Assistance Programs - Walgreens
    "Patient Assistance Programs" (PAPs) are charitable programs run by companies that make prescription drugs to support patients who cannot afford their ...Missing: generic | Show results with:generic
  192. [192]
  193. [193]
    Walgreens Lowers Prices on Hundreds of Medications Offered ...
    Apr 30, 2020 · Anyone can join the Walgreens Prescription Savings Club for an annual fee of $20 per individual or $35 per family. Savings apply to more than 8 ...Missing: drugs | Show results with:drugs
  194. [194]
    Walgreens Agrees To $100 Million Settlement Over Alleged ...
    Nov 5, 2024 · Walgreens introduced its Prescription Savings Club (PSC) in 2007, offering over 500 commonly prescribed generic medications at reduced prices: ...
  195. [195]
    Blue Shield of California and Walgreens Health Unveil New Health ...
    Apr 6, 2022 · The services are available at no additional cost to members enrolled in Blue Shield's commercial PPO and HMO plans, who live within 20 miles ...
  196. [196]
    Ambetter Health & Walgreens: Discover Added Benefits & Discounts
    Ambetter members get 20% off Walgreens brand health products, affordable prescriptions, access to clinical services, and free flu/COVID-19 vaccinations.
  197. [197]
    Walgreens to close 1200 stores as US pharmacies struggle to define ...
    Oct 15, 2024 · Walgreens is planning to close around 1,200 locations, as the drugstore chain and its rivals struggle to define their role for U.S. shoppers ...Missing: criticisms | Show results with:criticisms
  198. [198]
    Walgreens will close 1200 stores, hoping for a turnaround - NPR
    Oct 15, 2024 · Walgreens says about a quarter of its stores are unprofitable. Big pharmacy chains are struggling with growing retail competition and lower ...
  199. [199]
    Why Walgreens, CVS retail pharmacies are struggling - CNBC
    Aug 18, 2024 · Pharmacies have accused PBMs of setting lower reimbursement rates, which, in some cases, can mean pharmacies get paid less than the cost of ...
  200. [200]
    Warren Warns Walgreens Buyout by Private Equity May Lead to ...
    Apr 29, 2025 · Warren Warns Walgreens Buyout by Private Equity May Lead to Pharmacy Closures, Lost Jobs in Massachusetts, Limit Access to Medication. Warren ...
  201. [201]
    Sycamore acquires Walgreens, raises alarms over debt and ...
    Aug 28, 2025 · Private Equity Firm Sycamore Partners Finalizes Acquisition of Walgreens, Raising Alarms Over Debt and Bankruptcy Risk.
  202. [202]
    Walgreens Store Closures: What You Need To Know
    Oct 4, 2025 · Job losses are also a real concern. Store closures mean that employees lose their jobs, which can have a ripple effect throughout the community.
  203. [203]
    How Many Walgreens Stores Are Closing in the US?
    Apr 25, 2025 · Starting in fiscal year 2025, the company will begin shuttering 500 stores that have been deemed unprofitable, with the remaining closures expected by 2027.Missing: criticisms | Show results with:criticisms
  204. [204]
    It's Not Just a Pharmacy—Walgreens and CVS Closures Can ...
    Mar 25, 2024 · Walgreens and CVS closures create pharmacy deserts that can worsen health inequities, BU researcher says.<|control11|><|separator|>
  205. [205]
    Why your drug store is closing | CNN Business
    Oct 16, 2024 · They are now shutting down because of shifting consumer habits, competition and changes in the pharmacy industry. Around 25% of Walgreens' ...Missing: criticisms | Show results with:criticisms<|separator|>
  206. [206]
    Walgreens store closures in the United States, including potential ...
    Oct 15, 2024 · 5.Walgreens has said that some factors that may lead to store closures include: The existing footprint of stores, Local market dynamics, Changes ...
  207. [207]
    Walgreens private equity takeover may bring layoffs, pharmacy ...
    Sep 5, 2025 · Former Walgreens CEO Tim Wentworth will continue to serve as a director, company execs said in an Aug. 28 press release. Industry reactions.