Boots, the well-known UK pharmacy and retail chain, is poised for a potential £8 billion sale, with reports suggesting a deal could be finalised this week. This follows the closure of 300 stores as part of a significant cost-saving effort by its parent company, Walgreens Boots Alliance, which is facing financial challenges. The private equity firm Sycamore Partners is expected to acquire the business, raising questions about Boots’ long-term presence on the UK high street.
Despite the closures, Boots in Nottingham, has seen a marked performance improvement. The company’s retail sales surged by 8.1% between September and November 2024, driven by strong online growth and its pharmacy services. Online sales increased by 23%, while pharmacy sales grew by 5.8%, bolstering the company’s appeal to investors.
This shift in performance could lead to a separation from Walgreens and Shields Health Solutions, with speculation that Boots might be listed on the London Stock Exchange.
