Rite Aid closing 114 more stores across multiple states

Core Viewpoint - Rite Aid is closing an additional 114 stores as part of its second bankruptcy proceedings in less than two years, driven by mounting debt, sluggish sales, and competition in the pharmacy industry [1][3][4]. Group 1: Bankruptcy and Store Closures - Rite Aid filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May 2023, just eight months after exiting its first bankruptcy [2][4]. - The bankruptcy court in New Jersey approved the closure of 114 stores, with the majority located in Pennsylvania [1][2][7]. - The company has already closed 154 stores as part of its store optimization plan, reducing its footprint to approximately 1,245 locations [3][4]. Group 2: Financial Challenges - Rite Aid emerged from its first bankruptcy with $2.5 billion in liabilities, indicating ongoing financial struggles [4]. - The company has faced increased competition from other pharmacy chains such as Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, and Amazon, which has contributed to its financial difficulties [4][6]. Group 3: Industry Context - Industry experts anticipate further closures across the pharmacy sector as companies adjust to market demands and rightsize their operations [6]. - The rapid expansion of pharmacy locations has outpaced the actual need for pharmacies, leading to financial strain on companies like Rite Aid [6].