San Diego, CA, February 5, 2026
Rite Aid Corporation has announced the closure of all its remaining stores in the United States following a second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. Once a major player in the drugstore market, Rite Aid has seen a drastic reduction from over 5,000 locations to about 1,240. The closure reflects ongoing financial pressures and shifts within the retail pharmacy sector, with CVS and other companies acquiring most of Rite Aid’s pharmacy assets. Affected customers are encouraged to transfer their prescriptions to nearby pharmacies.
San Diego, CA – Rite Aid Corporation, the well-known American drugstore chain, has officially announced the closure of all its remaining stores across the nation, culminating in the cessation of its operations in the United States. This decision comes in the wake of a second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing made by the company in May 2025, marking a significant shift in the retail pharmacy landscape.
Founded in 1962, Rite Aid once boasted more than 5,000 stores nationwide. However, by the time of its latest bankruptcy in May 2025, the drugstore chain had reduced its operational footprint to approximately 1,240 locations across 15 states. Ongoing financial challenges, highlighted by an enormous debt burden paired with numerous lawsuits tied to the opioid crisis, have paved the way for this unfortunate outcome.
In the course of the bankruptcy proceedings, Rite Aid sold off its pharmacy assets to various competitors and regional chains. Prominently, CVS acquired the majority of these assets, while Walgreens, Albertsons, Kroger, and Giant Eagle also secured portions of Rite Aid’s business. Customers affected by these closures have been advised to facilitate the transfer of their prescriptions to alternative pharmacies, with Rite Aid taking steps to ensure a smooth transition by coordinating with the acquiring companies.
Retail Pharmacy Sector Transformation
The closure of Rite Aid’s stores echoes a broader trend within the retail pharmacy sector. Companies are increasingly consolidating operations and reassessing their market presence, responding to significant financial pressure compounded by changing consumer habits. This consolidation may ultimately lead to enhanced services and competitive pricing as stronger companies acquire the assets of those unable to adapt.
Impact on Local Communities
Despite the challenges facing Rite Aid, the resilience exhibited by local entrepreneurs and the vibrant retail environment in places like San Diego are commendable. As the market sees some larger players like CVS and Walgreens taking the reins of the pharmacy community, local businesses should be encouraged to innovate and adapt. A focus on limited regulation can empower small businesses and stimulate the economy through entrepreneurial efforts.
FAQs
Why is Rite Aid closing all its stores?
Rite Aid filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May 2025, its second filing in less than two years, leading to the decision to close all remaining stores nationwide.
Which companies acquired Rite Aid’s pharmacy assets?
During the bankruptcy proceedings, Rite Aid sold its pharmacy assets to various competitors and regional chains, including CVS, Walgreens, Albertsons, Kroger, and Giant Eagle.
What should customers do if their local Rite Aid store is closing?
Customers are advised to transfer their prescriptions to other pharmacies. Rite Aid has worked with acquiring companies to facilitate a smooth transition for patients.
How many Rite Aid stores were operating before the bankruptcy filing?
Before the bankruptcy filing in May 2025, Rite Aid operated approximately 1,240 stores across 15 states.
What is the history of Rite Aid’s store closures?
Rite Aid has been closing stores for years prior to its 2023 bankruptcy filing, which it entered with more than 2,100 locations.
Key Features of Rite Aid’s Store Closures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Stores Closed | All remaining Rite Aid stores nationwide |
| Reason for Closure | Second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in less than two years |
| Acquiring Companies | CVS, Walgreens, Albertsons, Kroger, Giant Eagle |
| Customer Advisory | Transfer prescriptions to other pharmacies; Rite Aid has facilitated this process |
| Industry Impact | Reflects broader trend of consolidation in the retail pharmacy sector |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
TD Bank to Close 51 Branches Across 13 States
CVS Health to Close 271 Stores Nationwide
Surge in ADA Website Accessibility Lawsuits Raises Concerns for Small Businesses
Transformations in the Legal Industry: Adapting to Change
Retailers and Restaurants Announce Major Closures
San Diego Woman Files Lawsuit After Tripping on Handhole Cover
Rite Aid Shuts Down All Stores Nationwide Amid Financial Woes
CVS Health Announces Major Store Closures and Strategic Changes
San Diego State Eyes Championship Game Spot Amid New Mexico Clash
San Diego Claims Victory Against Oregon in thrilling Match
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
