Duane Reade extends store hours

NEW YORK Duane Reade is extending store hours in 55 of its 256 store locations, increasing the number of stores open seven days a week in the New York metro area to 248, and the stores open 24 hours to 70 locations.

"As part of Duane Reade's commitment to create a more convenient, efficient, enjoyable and rewarding shopping experience for New Yorkers, we are delighted to extend the hours of more and more of our stores," stated Chuck Newsom, SVP store operations. "As the only uniquely New York drug store chain, we know first-hand that this city never sleeps, so never will we. We also know how important it is to be there for our customers when they need us."

Among the stores that will be open 24/7 is the chain's newest location at 1350 Broadway, Herald Square, which is slated to open later this month. 

The move is part of the chain's transformation that began in late 2008. The initiative includes improving the offering to include a localized product selection and the recent launch of the chain's own exclusive brand of food and beverages under the DR Delish brand name. In addition, many of its stores have a new look and feel that is fresh, contemporary and more "shop-able."