OHIO – Rite Aid has made a significant announcement regarding the closure of several of its stores throughout Ohio. This decision impacts various communities and marks a notable change in the company’s operations within the state. The affected stores include locations in Massillon, New Carlisle, Dayton, Youngstown, Springfield, Bellefontaine, Mount Gilead, and Willowick. Specifically, the closures will occur at:
- 3129 Lincoln Way East, Massillon
- 120 South Main Street, New Carlisle
- 146 Woodman Drive, Dayton
- 2701 Market Street, Youngstown
- 401 West North Street, Springfield
- 230 South Main Street, Bellefontaine
- 2800 Mahoning Avenue, Youngstown
- 510 West Marion Road, Mount Gilead
- 1158 Wilmington Avenue, Dayton
- 30500 Lakeshore Boulevard, Willowick
These closures are part of a broader trend affecting the retail pharmacy industry, characterized by increasing competition, shifts in consumer shopping habits, and the rise of online pharmaceutical services. Rite Aid, which began in 1962 in Pennsylvania, has been a key player in the drugstore sector but has faced challenges in recent years that have led to the consolidation of its store network across the country.
In Ohio, the closures are expected to impact local customers and employees. Rite Aid has not yet provided specific details regarding employee relocation or severance options. Customers who rely on these locations for their pharmacy needs will need to seek alternative services.
The decision to close these stores is in line with Rite Aid’s strategy to optimize its operations and focus on markets where it can be most competitive. This includes enhancing in-store experiences and expanding digital and delivery services to better compete with larger chains and online alternatives.