Rite Aid to open 'many' stores on Thanksgiving

CAMP HILL, Pa. — Many of Rite Aid's stores will open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving, the retail pharmacy chain said Monday.

Rite Aid, which operates about 4,600 stores, said the move was designed to give shoppers a head start on Black Friday shopping, citing National Retail Federation figures indicating that up to 140 million shoppers will visit retailers nationwide during the weekend. Still, store hours will vary, and many pharmacies will close at 3 p.m., the company said.

"For retailers and shoppers alike, Black Friday marks the official start of the holiday shopping season," Rite Aid EVP merchandising Tony Montini said. "Our shelves are stocked with this year's must-have items, all at an incredible savings. And our convenient locations and extended hours make it easier than ever for our customers to get great gifts for everyone on their lists, making for one 'happy' holiday season."