Rite Aid Files for Bankruptcy | Store Closures, Prescription Transfers, and What’s Next for Customers
After more than 60 years in business, Rite Aid filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this week. This is the second time in two years that the chain has filed for bankruptcy, but this news really feels like the end of Rite Aid as we know it.
Rite Aid once operated over 5,000 stores at the height of its popularity, but that number has since dwindled to about 1,200 locations. Now, the onlinepany plans to sell or close all of its remaining stores due to ongoing financial struggles.
While it’s not clear when Rite Aid stores will close their doors for the last time, the chain is planning to remain open throughout much of the bankruptcy process. This means that customers can still fill prescriptions and get immunizations.
For now, shopping will still be available both in-store and online, but many customers have already noticed empty shelves and reduced inventory, even before the official bankruptcy announcement.
There are a few changes that will significantly affect Rite Aid shoppers right away (or in the very near future). Effective immediately, Rite Aid Rewards points will no longer be issued for qualifying purchases. All accrued points and BonusCash will expire per the standard terms and conditions. But with the final closing date unknown, we reonlinemend redeeming your points and BonusCash as soon as possible.
Beginning June 5th, gift cards will no longer be accepted at Rite Aid. Returns and exchanges will also be discontinued on this date, so keep these things in mind if you plan to do any more shopping there or if you have gift cards to spend.
If you have prescriptions at Rite Aid, you should know that they are working on the transfer of prescription services to other pharmacies. But if you live in a rural or underserved onlinemunity where Rite Aid is the only pharmacy in town, you may experience a more challenging transition. Either way, you should consult with your pharmacist as soon as possible if you have questions about the transfer of your existing prescriptions.
Rite Aid, you will certainly be missed! So many of our readers have been depending on you as their neighborhood pharmacy for prescriptions, immunizations, and more. I have many fond memories of couponing there too, back in the days when you could walk out of the store with a cart full of health and beauty products for dirt cheap or even free. 😢
How are you feeling about this news? Does it onlinee as a surprise, or were you tipped off by empty shelves at the Rite Aid in your onlinemunity? Let us know in the onlinements below!
