Last Thursday, Bi-Mart Corporate announced that they will be shutting down pharmacies at most of its stores in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The Weiser Bi-Mart Pharmacy is included in the sale of customer inventory of medications to Walgreens. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
In a press release sent by media contact Don Leber, the email explained that it was a difficult decision but strategically important to strengthen their financial position and expand with future growth. Bi-Mart stores will stay open, but it is yet unclear if all stores will continue to have a pharmacy inside the store. As for the Weiser location, it has been verified that Walgreens Pharmacy will be taking over and the pharmacy will remain in the Weiser Bi-Mart.
Prescription files for the Weiser Bi-Mart pharmacy will transfer under Walgreen ownership and remain in-store at the Weiser location. “Walgreens is pleased to introduce more patients to our trusted pharmacy services, that we currently provide in over 9,000 locations in communities across the country including more than 70 across Oregon,” said Rob Ewing, regional vice president, Walgreens.
Community members have expressed concern over whether or not the current Bi-Mart pharmacy staff will remain in their positions. One member stated on social media, “It is the best pharmacy. I hope it stays and all the employees stay.” “The pharmacist is very personable and knows his customers and needs!” shared another. Don Leber, media contact for Bi-Mart corporate, commented in a phone interview that all current staff and pharmacists will have an opportunity to apply for available positions at Walgreens pharmacy where they can continue to meet the needs of the community.
The companies anticipate having the file transfers completed by January of 2022. Patients with prescriptions will be notified of the transition and signs will be up in the pharmacy as well. The press release also stated, “Once patient prescriptions are transferred from Bi-Mart to Walgreens, patients will have access to Walgreens trusted pharmacy services across a network of more than 9,000 pharmacies nationwide.” If pharmacy patients have any questions or concerns about the transfer, they are encouraged to ask questions.
Weiser Bi-Mart manager Bert was unable to comment on any questions relating to the sale of the pharmacy to Walgreens, however, he said that overall Bi-Mart is in good standing and will remain open. Every year, they have seen the store grow and prosper, so with this new change they are anticipating it to be a great thing. Walgreens will bring with them their own advantages and strengths as a pharmacy. Bert is proud of the employee-owned chain and will continue to provide the best customer service and products through their retail store.
