CI COOP has purchased four Lloyds pharmacies to expand its network across Jersey.
The retailer has also purchased three branches in Guernsey in what its chief executive has called a “unique opportunity” to further develop their pharmacy business.
The news follows an announcement by LloydsPharmacy that it had made the “difficult decision” to shut its branches at Red Houses (Parade), and David Place and Indigo House in St Helier following a review of operations.
Saving some of the branches from closure, CI Coop has now acquired sites in The Parade, Red Houses, Les Quennevais, and Gorey Village.
The three branches acquired in Guernsey are located at St Sampson’s, L’Aumone, and Longfrie.
As part of the move, CI Coop will be offering roles to all existing Lloyds staff.
The two companies are working together to finalise the sale and transition, which is anticipated to be completed at the end of this month.
This is subject to approval by the Jersey and Guernsey competition and regulatory authorities.
Mark Cox, chief executive of the CI Coop, said: “This is a unique opportunity to further develop the Coop’s pharmacy business through purchasing seven Lloyds stores.
“We look forward to welcoming new and existing members and customers to our expanded pharmacy network and are thrilled to welcome their team into the Channel Islands Coop family.”
Sara Kynicos, head of care at CI Coop, said: “This acquisition presents an excellent opportunity for us, underscoring our commitment to the growth and development of our pharmacy business, as well as our continued support for the essential pharmacy sector within the local community.”
Age Concern chair Ben Shenton previously said that the government needed to “monitor the situation and take action” if accelerating closures left residents vulnerable.
