Macon Walgreens is closing as part of larger business strategy. Here’s why
In 2024, Walgreens announced its plans to shut down several locations. According to a spokesperson with the company, this is just one of many closing across the U.S.
MACON, Ga. — A pharmacy in Macon is set to close soon.
The Walgreens on 4305 Mercer University Drive is set to close on May 21, according to a Walgreens representative. This is the first Walgreens to close in Macon since the location on Gray Highway closed in 2023.
The pharmacy’s closing is part of the company’s plan and business strategy to close 1,200 stores over three years. They announced the plan in 2024 as they say external factors are impacting many locations’ viability.
“We will continue to execute our previously announced turnaround plan aimed at stabilizing the retail pharmacy, including our footprint optimization program,” a statement from Walgreens said. “Increased regulatory and reimbursement pressures are weighing on our ability to cover the costs associated with rent, staffing, and supply needs.”
But the company said that they don’t make the decision to close a location easily.
“It is never an easy decision to close a store, and we know how important they are to the communities we serve and therefore do everything possible to improve their performance,” Walgreens’ statement added. “When closures are necessary, we will work in partnership with community stakeholders to minimize customer disruptions.”
The spokesperson said that people who get their prescriptions filled at the Mercer University Drive location will be automatically transferred to the location at 3888 Vineville Avenue. These patients will have a free 90-day delivery to help with the transition.
The drugstore chain, which had over 8,600 stores in the United States, has been quickly closing down stores in recent years. According to Walgreens CEO Tim Wentworth, the company planned on closing 2,100 underperforming stores if they didn’t improve.
The company, alongside other chain pharmacies like CVS and Rite Aid, has been closing down a wide array of stores for the past few years, as they face challenges to their business model. With companies like Publix and Kroger offering pharmacies in-store, or companies like Walmart and Amazon offering an option to order and deliver certain goods, many locations have been forced to close.
“Our customers have become increasingly selective and price sensitive in their purchases,” Wentworth said in 2024.
He joined the company in 2023 and has been conducting a review of its business.
Walgreens will only have two locations in Macon, as their locations on Vineville Avenue and Zebulon Road remain open. CVS still has several more locations, including spots on Forest Hill Road, Bloomfield Road and more.
link
