Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Walgreens to Close Chatham Store June 4, Citing Theft and Safety Concerns

The loss deepens pharmacy access gaps on Chicago’s South Side.

Overview

  • Walgreens and Ald. William Hall confirmed Monday that the store at 8628 S. Cottage Grove will shut on June 4.
  • Company officials said the location has seen significantly higher theft and violent incidents than other stores, and they called safety the top priority.
  • Customers can fill prescriptions at the Chatham pharmacy until closing, then refills will transfer to 1616 E. 87th St., about 1.3 miles away, with 90 days of free delivery offered.
  • Residents and local leaders protested outside the store, calling the exit corporate abandonment and warning it will hit seniors and people managing chronic illnesses the hardest.
  • Elected officials signaled policy action, including a proposed big box ordinance, as the closure tracks with a broader Walgreens pullback after a private‑equity buyout and plans to close fewer than 100 U.S. stores in 2026.