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Pharmacy Deserts Loom as Walgreens Closes 5 Chicago Stores
January 19, 2025
Walgreens, headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, has announced plans to close approximately 1,200 underperforming stores across the United States by 2027, with 500 closures expected in the current fiscal year.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to streamline operations amid challenges such as declining prescription reimbursements, rising operational costs, and increased competition from online retailers.
In Illinois, the impact is notably felt in Chicago, where five store closures are scheduled between February 17 and 27, 2025. The affected locations are:
1. 7111 South Western Avenue (West Englewood)
2. 4005 West 26th Street (Little Village)
3. 9148 South Commercial Avenue (South Chicago)
4. 3405 South King Drive (Lake Meadows)
5. 7109 South Jeffery Boulevard (South Shore)
Walgreens has stated that it intends to redeploy the majority of employees from the shuttered stores and will work with community stakeholders to minimize customer disruptions.
While the company has not disclosed a comprehensive list of all Illinois locations slated for closure, it has indicated that decisions are based on store performance, property ownership, and lease expirations.
Customers affected by these closures are advised to transfer their prescriptions to nearby Walgreens locations or utilize the company's online and delivery services to ensure continuity of care.
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