SEATTLE — Bare shelves and deep discounts mark the end of a Rite Aid store with one of the most recognizable signs in western Washington. While not in the company's initial announcement of closing stores, employees confirmed the Rite Aid at Broadway and John Street would close on Dec. 4.
The location has been a pharmacy since the early 90s. Rite Aid took over the space in 1996 after buying Thrifty Payless. The marquee sign on the pharmacy is an homage to the building's past. From 1911 to 1990, the location was home to a theater.
“I’m sorry to see it close," Angelique Wilson, who lives in Capitol Hill, said. "I was like 'Wow! Now, where am I going to get my medicine?' It was very convenient for me.”
Wilson says she has transferred all her medications to another pharmacy. Like a lot of people in the neighborhood, she's hopeful the storefront won't stay vacant for long.
“I know it’s not going to be another Rite Aid but I do hope something fills it that’ll be something entertaining or another store that will be convenient and have a pharmacy," she said.
In a statement, a Rite Aid spokesperson said it regularly assesses its retail footprint to make sure it is operating efficiently and meeting the needs of overall business.
"In connection with the court-supervised process, we notified the Court of certain underperforming stores we are closing to further reduce rent expense and strengthen overall financial performance," Rite Aid said in a statement. "At this time, we have not made or confirmed any decisions on additional specific store closures as part of our financial restructuring process. "
Rite Aid did not answer questions about what the company will do with the iconic marquee sign.
