Impact of Rite Aid Closures

PHSL’s July 2025 poll asked respondents to identify the most significant consequence of Rite Aid’s widespread store closures, a move prompted by the company’s bankruptcy and ongoing restructuring efforts.

• 63% of respondents believe the biggest impact will be the increased workload on other pharmacies. As Rite Aid locations shut down, nearby competitors like CVS, Walgreens, and independent pharmacies may experience a surge in prescription volume, customer service demands, and staffing pressure, potentially leading to longer wait times and increased strain on pharmacists.
• 31% pointed to reduced patient access to pharmacies. This may be especially true in rural or underserved areas where Rite Aid may have been the only convenient option. Pharmacy deserts—areas lacking accessible pharmacy services—could expand, potentially affecting medication adherence, preventive care, and overall health outcomes.
• Only 6% cited pharmacist job searches as the main concern, indicating that while job displacement is happening, there may be sufficient demand in the industry to absorb laid-off workers.
• No respondents selected impact on employer prescription costs as major impact to the store closing.