Top Retailers

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreens posted a sales gain of 0.8% for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, reaching a record $72.2 billion and filling a record 821 million prescriptions. That volume of prescriptions filled helped Walgreens boost its retail pharmacy market share for the fiscal year to 19.1%. 

Early morning trading boosted Walgreens' share price from a close of $53.80 on Monday to $56.06, an increase of 4.2%.

DEERFIELD, Ill. — In its quest to own health and daily living, Walgreens achieved several key milestones since the beginning of fiscal 2013.

CHICAGO — All too often retailers fall short when it comes to meeting the healthcare needs of their consumers, who not only demand more from their overall shopping experience, but also are increasingly looking for ways to curb rising healthcare costs and live healthier lives. Today’s successful retailers are working to strike a balance of value and quality, and are developing innovative solutions to strengthen their foothold along the frontlines of U.S. healthcare. In short, the winners are delivering a valuable healthcare experience.

The Walmart Foundation has appointed Kathleen McLaughlin as its president, effective Oct. 15. In addition to leading corporate giving, she will have responsibility for the company's global sustainability, women's economic empowerment initiatives and healthier food initiatives.

McLaughlin, previously a senior partner at global consulting firm McKinsey & Company, is a dual American-Canadian citizen and was based in Toronto.

SAN FRANCISCO — Pharmacy veteran Chris Dimos has joined McKesson as SVP corporate strategy and business development, reporting to Brian Tyler, McKesson EVP corporate strategy and business development, DSN has learned. Also joining McKesson is Melanie Nallicheri as SVP McKesson Distribution Solutions. Nallicheri will similarly report to Tyler. 

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. — Customer satisfaction with retail pharmacies has increased faster than mail-order pharmacies despite the perceived cost competitiveness of the latter, according to a new study.

NEW YORK — One of the world's leading Italian pasta brands is the subject of an international boycott after remarks that critics have characterized as disparaging gay people, and the mother of a leader in a U.S.-based gay-rights group is petitioning a supermarket chain to stop carrying it.

CINCINNATI — The Kroger Co. has promoted Steve McKinney to president of the Fry's Food Stores division. Fry's operates 119 food stores in Arizona.

McKinney, 57, has been VP of operations at the company's Ralphs division since 2007. He succeeds Jon Flora, who passed away unexpectedly two weeks ago.