CHICAGO — CVS Health is set to open its first pharmacy-only, apothecary-style store in Chicago, marking a significant shift in how the company delivers community-based care.
The new CVS Pharmacy location, scheduled to open March 30 at 2628 W. Pershing Rd. in the city’s West End neighborhood, will serve as a prototype for a broader rollout of nearly 20 similar stores planned for 2026.
The smaller-format stores, averaging less than 5,000 square feet, will focus primarily on pharmacy services while offering a limited assortment of over-the-counter health products. Unlike traditional CVS locations, the new format will exclude general merchandise such as groceries and greeting cards, reinforcing a shift toward healthcare-centric retail.
CVS said the concept is designed to improve access to medications, immunizations and pharmacist-provided services, particularly in underserved communities. The company is positioning pharmacists more directly within the care continuum, aligning with broader industry trends emphasizing accessibility and localized care delivery.
The launch occurs amid a broader realignment of CVS’s retail footprint. The company closed approximately 270 stores in 2025 while planning to open nearly 100 new locations, including more than 60 acquired from Rite Aid. The new pharmacy-only model reflects both changing consumer behavior and declining front-end retail sales.
Consumer data cited by CVS underscores the strategy: about 80% of patients prefer in-person pharmacy care, and 84% view pharmacies as trusted healthcare destinations. By reducing store size and focusing on clinical services, CVS aims to better meet those expectations while optimizing operating efficiency.
The Chicago opening will include a community-focused grand opening event, with additional locations expected to follow in select markets throughout the year.
Submit Your Press Release
Have news to share? Send us your press releases and announcements.
Send Press Release
