Rite Aid closing Ballinger and Richmond Beach locations Bartells in MLT to be CVS

Rite Aid will close its Shoreline locations, with the Ballinger Way store confirmed to shut down on August 11, 2025. Customers relying on the pharmacy will have their prescriptions transferred to the former Bartells in Mountlake Terrace, which is converting to a CVS. The closure of the Richmond Beach Rd location remains uncertain, leaving some community members concerned about access to pharmacy services. This decision highlights the challenges faced by retail pharmacies amid increased competition and changing consumer preferences. Rite Aid's closures are part of a broader trend of consolidation in the pharmacy sector, with many chains adapting to market demands.

The local community now faces questions about alternative pharmacy options and the impact on residents who depend on these services. As the retail landscape evolves, these changes may significantly affect local healthcare access. Local officials are urged to address concerns about pharmacy availability as closures continue.