In recent months, many people have been asking the same question: Is Walgreens going out of business? Headlines about store closures, corporate restructuring, and ownership changes have created confusion and concern among customers. Walgreens is one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States, and any sign of trouble can affect millions of people who rely on its services. In this article, we’ll look at the facts, clear up the rumors, and explain what’s really happening with Walgreens in 2025.
Overview: The Current State of Walgreens
Walgreens is the second-largest pharmacy chain in the United States, operating more than 8,700 stores nationwide as of early 2025. It is part of Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA), a global pharmacy-led health and wellness company formed after Walgreens merged with Alliance Boots in 2014. Despite the speculation, the company remains a major player in the retail pharmacy sector.
The recent question is Walgreens going out of business gained traction after major corporate changes and announcements of hundreds of store closures. However, these changes do not mean Walgreens is shutting down. Instead, they reflect a broader strategic shift aimed at improving the company’s financial health and adapting to new market realities.
Why People Are Asking: Is Walgreens Going Out of Business?
There are three main reasons behind the widespread question is Walgreens going out of business:
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Store Closures: Walgreens has announced plans to close a significant number of stores across the U.S.
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Ownership Changes: The company was recently taken private by a private equity firm.
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Industry Challenges: Rising costs, shrinking profit margins, and increased competition have impacted its operations.
Each of these factors has led some people to believe that Walgreens may be going out of business. Let’s break them down one by one.
Store Closures: A Strategic Move, Not a Shutdown
The biggest reason people believe is Walgreens going out of business is because of the company’s decision to close many of its locations. In 2025, Walgreens announced a “Footprint Optimization Program” — a strategic plan to close about 1,200 underperforming stores over the next three years.
During the 2025 fiscal year alone, Walgreens is expected to shutter around 500 stores, with many closures already happening in states like New York, Massachusetts, California, and Colorado. Some of these stores have already closed, while others are scheduled to close in the coming months.
However, Walgreens executives have clarified that these closures are part of a plan to streamline operations and focus resources on more profitable locations. The company is adapting to changing consumer behavior, more online competition, and new healthcare delivery models. Closing underperforming stores is a way to remain strong, not a sign that the company is collapsing.
Ownership Change: Walgreens Goes Private
Another reason many are asking is Walgreens going out of business is due to its recent ownership change. In March 2025, Walgreens announced that it would be acquired by Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm, in a deal valued at around $10 billion. The acquisition was completed in August 2025, officially taking Walgreens private and ending its time as a publicly traded company.
Some people misunderstand this move as a sign of financial trouble. However, going private does not mean Walgreens is bankrupt or shutting down. In fact, it often gives companies more flexibility to restructure, reduce costs, and implement long-term strategies without the pressure of quarterly earnings reports. In Walgreens’ case, this move is designed to help the company focus on profitability and adapt to new market challenges without Wall Street scrutiny.
What Happens to Customers and Prescriptions?
Many customers worry that if stores close, they might lose access to their medications and pharmacy services. Walgreens has made it clear that patients will not be left without options. If your local Walgreens is closing, your prescription records will remain accessible at other Walgreens locations. You can also transfer your prescriptions or use delivery services offered by the company.
Walgreens is committed to maintaining a strong pharmacy network and ensuring that patients continue to receive their medications and healthcare services without interruption. This further shows that while the company is restructuring, it is not abandoning its core business or customers.
The Real Answer: Is Walgreens Going Out of Business?
The straightforward answer to the question is Walgreens going out of business is no — Walgreens is not going out of business. Instead, the company is undergoing a significant transformation to remain competitive and financially stable in a changing retail and healthcare environment.
Here’s a summary of the current situation:
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Walgreens remains one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States, with thousands of stores still operating nationwide.
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The company is closing about 1,200 underperforming stores as part of a strategy to optimize its operations and improve profitability.
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Walgreens has been acquired by Sycamore Partners and is now a private company, which allows it to focus on long-term goals.
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Customers will continue to have access to their prescriptions and pharmacy services, even in areas where store closures occur.
Future Outlook for Walgreens
While Walgreens is not going out of business, it is facing challenges that require major adjustments. The retail pharmacy industry is evolving rapidly due to online competition, rising operational costs, and shifts in consumer habits. Walgreens is responding by focusing more on healthcare services, digital solutions, and efficient store operations.
The company’s decision to close stores and go private reflects a broader strategy to strengthen its core business and ensure long-term sustainability. By adapting to new market conditions and focusing on innovation, Walgreens aims to maintain its position as a leading pharmacy chain in the U.S.
Conclusion
So, is Walgreens going out of business? The answer is clear: No, Walgreens is not going out of business. The company is restructuring, closing some stores, and transitioning to private ownership, but it remains a major force in the pharmacy and healthcare industry. Its focus is on becoming more efficient and better positioned for the future, not shutting down operations.
Customers can continue to rely on Walgreens for prescriptions, health services, and convenience. While changes are happening, they are part of a strategic plan to ensure Walgreens stays relevant and successful in the years ahead.