Walgreen Boots Stock Price, News & Analysis

Walgreens has begun offering updated COVID-19 boosters from Pfizer and Moderna for individuals aged 12 and older, authorized by the FDA and CDC. These boosters target the Omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5, prevalent in the U.S. Appointments can be scheduled via the Walgreens app or online. Eligible individuals must have completed a primary vaccine series or received a booster at least 2 months prior. Additionally, Walgreens encourages simultaneous flu vaccinations to enhance community protection. Walgreens has administered nearly 70 million COVID-19 vaccines since the pandemic began.

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) has completed a majority share acquisition of CareCentrix, investing $330 million for 55% ownership, valuing the company at $800 million. This strategic move enhances Walgreens Health's capabilities in home care, allowing better management of patients transitioning from hospitals. CareCentrix manages care for 19 million members across 7,400 providers, achieving a 20% reduction in total care costs. The partnership aims to improve healthcare delivery, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance overall patient outcomes.

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) has sold 11 million shares of Option Care Health (OPCH) in a secondary offering, reducing its ownership from 20.5% to 14.4%. The proceeds will primarily be utilized for debt paydown and to support strategic priorities. CEO Rosalind Brewer emphasized the action aligns with the company's strategy and enhances balance sheet flexibility. Walgreens Boots Alliance continues to serve millions through over 13,000 locations worldwide, aiming to improve healthcare access.

Walgreens is offering cash rewards for vaccinations, including a $5 reward from August to December and a $10 reward in September for anyone receiving vaccines at its nearly 9,000 locations. This initiative aims to combat rising flu cases, observed as flu activity in the Southern Hemisphere points to possible increases in the U.S. during the 2022-2023 season. Vaccination appointments are encouraged, allowing for co-administration of various vaccines. Additionally, Walgreens continues its 'Get a Shot. Give a Shot.' program to provide immunizations to children globally.

This August, Huggies and Walgreens are partnering for the sixth consecutive year to address diaper need in the U.S. For every pack of Huggies Diapers purchased, one day's worth of diapers will be donated to the National Diaper Bank Network, with a goal of donating up to 1 million diapers. Diaper need affects one in three families in the U.S., impacting children's health and wellbeing. Since 2011, this collaboration has provided over 300 million diapers to families in need. The initiative emphasizes the importance of access to clean diapers for children's health.

Walgreens is partnering with CAMP to offer limited-edition Ultimate Beach Day Bundles to families nationwide, promoting sun safety and summer fun. Starting August 5, families can reserve these free bundles featuring Walgreens brand health products. On August 11, an event in Domino Park, Brooklyn, will include activities like a treasure hunt and beach yoga. One bundle hides a grand prize for a beach vacation. Walgreens emphasizes their commitment to health and wellness through this initiative, showcasing their range of pharmacist-recommended products.

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) has announced a quarterly dividend of 48 cents per share, marking a 0.5% increase from the previous rate. This dividend is set to be paid on September 9, 2022, to stockholders of record as of August 19, 2022. The annual dividend rate has risen from $1.91 to $1.92 per share. WBA has consistently paid dividends for over 89 years and has increased them for 47 consecutive years, reflecting the company's longstanding commitment to returning value to its shareholders.

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) reported third-quarter fiscal 2022 results, with EPS from continuing operations down 73.8% to $0.33, compared to $1.27 last year. Adjusted EPS decreased 30.0% to $0.96. Sales fell 4.2% to $32.6 billion, reflecting a significant impact from AllianceRx Walgreens. Operating income showed a loss of $320 million, compared to a gain of $1.1 billion last year. Despite these challenges, retail comparable sales grew 2.4%, and Walgreens Health pro forma sales surged 65%. The company aims for $3.5 billion in annual cost savings by fiscal 2024.