Rite Aid to Close All Rochester and Finger Lakes Stores Amid Bankruptcy

Rite Aid has announced plans to close or sell all of its stores in the Rochester and Finger Lakes regions as part of its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in less than two years. The closures are part of a broader move to shutter all 178 of its New York locations by June, affecting communities across the state.

The Philadelphia-based pharmacy chain filed for bankruptcy on May 5, citing ongoing financial challenges, including mounting debt, increased competition from online retailers, and thousands of lawsuits related to the opioid crisis. Despite securing nearly $2 billion in financing, Rite Aid was unable to stabilize its operations.

In the Finger Lakes region, the closures are expected to have a significant impact, particularly in the city and rural areas where Rite Aid often serves as the sole pharmacy. Local officials have expressed concern over the potential creation of "pharmacy deserts," which could leave residents without convenient access to prescription medications and other health services.

Rite Aid has stated that it will work to ensure that customer prescriptions are transferred to other pharmacies during the transition. However, the company has not provided specific details on which stores will be sold or closed first. Employees have been notified that layoffs will begin as early as June 4.

This marks the second time Rite Aid has filed for bankruptcy in recent years. The company previously filed in October 2023 and emerged from bankruptcy in 2024, only to face continued financial difficulties.

As Rite Aid exits the New York market, competitors such as CVS and Walgreens are expected to absorb some of the prescription business. CVS has already announced plans to acquire 625 Rite Aid pharmacies and 64 full stores, pending court approval.

Customers are advised to contact their local Rite Aid stores for information on prescription transfers and to utilize any remaining rewards or gift cards before they become invalid. The company has set a deadline of June 5 for the use of gift cards, coupons, and rewards.

For more information, visit Rite Aid's official website or contact their customer service line.