Rite Aid Closes Final Stores Across the US

The closure of all remaining Rite Aid stores marks the end of an era for the once-prominent pharmacy chain. Founded in 1962, Rite Aid was once a major player in the U.S. retail pharmacy market. The company’s website now features a notice stating, “All Rite Aid stores have now closed. We thank our loyal customers for their many years of support.” Customers can still access their pharmacy records via a provided link.

Rite Aid’s Decline

At its peak, Rite Aid boasted approximately 5,000 locations across the United States. However, financial difficulties have plagued the company in recent years. By the time of its closure announcement, only a handful of stores remained operational.

Bankruptcy Filings and Legal Troubles

Rite Aid filed for bankruptcy in October 2023, following an earlier filing in May 2025. The company’s challenges were compounded by legal issues related to its involvement in the opioid crisis. In 2022, Rite Aid settled lawsuits for up to $30 million, accused of contributing to opioid distribution in the U.S.

Additionally, the Justice Department alleged that Rite Aid stores filled unlawful prescriptions for potent opioids like oxycodone and fentanyl. In July 2024, Rite Aid agreed to settle these allegations. The 2023 bankruptcy filing aimed to address these ongoing litigation claims through restructuring.

Impact on Pharmacy Landscape

The closure of Rite Aid is part of a broader trend affecting pharmacy chains in the U.S. Other retailers have also curtailed their operations for various reasons. CVS, for instance, has shut down more than 1,000 stores since 2021 as part of a strategic plan. Similarly, Walgreens, under new ownership by Sycamore Partners, closed around 500 locations in the past year.

Emerging Pharmacy Deserts

Experts are increasingly alarmed by the emergence of “pharmacy deserts” across the country. Millions of Americans now reside in areas without easy access to pharmacies, forcing them to travel longer distances to fill prescriptions. This trend raises significant concerns for public health and access to necessary medications.

• Founded: 1962
• Peak Store Count: 5,000
• Bankruptcy Filings: October 2023 and May 2025
• Settlement for Opioid Lawsuits: Up to $30 million in 2022
• Store Closures by Competitors:
  • CVS: Over 1,000 stores since 2021
  • Walgreens: 500 stores in the past year

The closing of Rite Aid’s final stores not only signifies the end of its operations but also highlights significant shifts within the retail pharmacy landscape in the United States.