In the retail pharmacy industry, Walgreens is a titan both domestically and internationally. Throughout its more than a century long history, it has grown from a single pharmacy to a massive network that affects millions of patients’ everyday lives as well as their health and well being.
History & Evolution
Walgreens was founded in Chicago in 1901 and has experienced substantial expansion and transformation. The company survived the Great Depression and grew fast, reaching 601 outlets by 1934. In the mid 20th century, technology included barcode scanning and the Wag’s chain expanded into food service. However, these restaurants were sold by 1991.
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The 21st century
Walgreens had fast growth and strategic acquisitions around the turn of the century. Notably, it purchased Duane Reade in 2010, Drugstore.com in 2011, and a large investment in Alliance Boots in 2012, which resulted in the formation of Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) in 2014. The merger expanded the company’s operations beyond traditional pharmaceutical services.
Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA)
Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) is a leading integrated healthcare, pharmacy, and retail company with over 12,500 sites in the US, Europe, and Latin America. The company is an important player in the healthcare ecosystem, focusing on rethinking local healthcare and wellbeing for all. WBA’s commitment to healthy communities, a healthy planet, an inclusive workplace, and a sustainable marketplace has resulted in good results on numerous equality and sustainability indices.
Global Presence
WBA’s reach extends beyond the United States, with large operations in the United Kingdom via Boots, as well as presences in Ireland, Norway, and Thailand. The company has franchise operations in the Middle East and Indonesia, highlighting its global presence in retail pharmacy.
Financial Overview
WBA has demonstrated stability and growth throughout the years, with revenue hitting $139 billion in fiscal year 2020, up 2.5% from the previous cycle. The company is ranked #18 on the Fortune 500 list of the top U.S. corporations by total sales, demonstrating its economic importance.
Career and Culture
Walgreens operates approximately 9,000 stores throughout all 50 states, providing job possibilities in a variety of sectors, including pharmacy and in store roles, corporate support, and technology. The organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create a workplace that mirrors the communities they serve.
Environmental and Social Governance (ESG)
WBA has been included in the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index for four years in a row, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility (ESG). The organization prioritizes governance, healthy communities, an inclusive workplace, and a healthy planet, striving for a sustainable marketplace.
Conclusion
Walgreens Boots Alliance embodies a blend of history and innovation, with the goal of making people’s lives more enjoyable via improved health. As it expands its global footprint and digital presence, WBA remains at the forefront of healthcare and retail, exhibiting an enduring dedication to the well being of its customers, employees, and the environment.