7 Key Steps in Walgreens Acquisition Strategy: An In-Depth Review

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Beginning of an Era

The remarkable growth journey of Walgreens, a leading pharmaceutical retail player in the United States, is largely attributed to its strategic acquisitions. This piece offers an exhaustive review of Walgreens’ key acquisitions, their influence on the company’s business framework, and their role in shaping its market position.

The Birth of Walgreens

Charles R. Walgreen Sr. marked the inception of Walgreens in 1901, with a humble food front store in Chicago. Over the next hundred years, it mushroomed across the United States, establishing itself as a trusted name in pharmaceutical retail.

A Glimpse into Walgreens Acquisition Strategy

Walgreens acquisition strategy has been instrumental in accelerating its growth. The acquisitions have significantly contributed to broadening its product range, geographical reach, and revenue streams.

Consolidating Dominance: Walgreens and Duane Reade

In 2010, Walgreens made a strategic acquisition of Duane Reade, a prominent drugstore chain in New York. The $1.1 billion deal added over 250 stores to Walgreens’ network, bolstering its foothold in the fiercely competitive New York market.

Alliance Boots: Expanding Global Reach

The acquisition of a 45% stake in Alliance Boots, a Switzerland-based global health and beauty group, in 2012 marked a significant milestone in Walgreens’ journey. By 2014, Walgreens had fully acquired Alliance Boots, creating the first-ever global pharmacy-led health and wellbeing enterprise.

Rite Aid: Broadening Horizons

In 2015, Walgreens attempted to acquire Rite Aid, the third-largest drugstore chain in the U.S. However, due to regulatory concerns, the deal was restructured, resulting in Walgreens acquiring nearly 2,000 stores from Rite Aid in 2017, thereby expanding its U.S. footprint.

AmerisourceBergen: Streamlining Supply Chains

Recently, in 2021, Walgreens announced its plans to sell its Alliance Healthcare businesses to AmerisourceBergen for $6.5 billion. This strategic decision is aimed at fortifying their long-standing partnership and optimizing their pharmaceutical supply chains.

The Influence of Acquisitions on Walgreens’ Business Model

Each acquisition brought distinct value to Walgreens’ business model. The Duane Reade deal solidified its New York City presence, Alliance Boots unlocked international markets, the Rite Aid acquisition broadened its domestic reach, and the AmerisourceBergen deal is set to boost their supply chain prowess. For more details on merger and acquisition strategies, check our insightful guidelines mergers acquisitions strategies.

Walgreens: Looking Ahead

Walgreens acquisition strategy has firmly established it as a dominant player in the pharmaceutical retail landscape. As it continues to adapt to evolving market conditions, these acquisitions will remain central to its future growth narrative.