Sanford Health to acquire pharmacy, retail store with 60 locations

Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Sanford Health plans to acquire Lewis Drug, a family-owned pharmacy and retail chain with 60 locations throughout South Dakota, Iowa and Minnesota. 

The translation aims to expand community access to pharmacy services and retail offerings throughout the upper Midwest. Lewis Drug has been a regional staple for more than 80 years, known for its personalized service and community presence, according to the health system.

“This partnership is a natural next step in our long-term, trusted relationship and reflects our shared commitment to improving quality of life for our patients and communities and providing the highest quality pharmacy care for those we serve,” Sanford President and CEO Bill Gassen said in an Aug. 28 news release. 

Sanford and Lewis Drug have partnered for more than 25 years. Their collaboration has includes:

• 11 co-located Sanford Health clinics and Lewis Drug pharmacies.
• Ambulatory pharmacists stationed in Sanford clinics in Sioux Falls.
• Pharmacy services for several Good Samaritan Society locations.
• A co-ownership of 44 Lewis Family Drug locations in rural communities outside Sioux Falls.

Mr. Gassen said integrating Lewis Drug into Sanford Health’s care delivery model will provide stability and preserve access to medications, vaccinations, screenings and pharmacist support across the region.

Lewis Drug will continue operating under its current name and branding. Its workforce of 188 pharmacists and 1,300 employees will transition to Sanford Health. Lewis Drug CEO Mark Griffin will remain in a multiyear advisory role following the acquisition to help ensure a smooth integration.

“This partnership is built on trust, and our long-term relationship with Sanford Health laid the groundwork for the joint decision to bring Lewis Drug fully into the integrated Sanford Health system,” Mr. Griffin said. “Customers and patients will continue to have the same great experience when they walk into a Lewis store as they have for the last 80 years — from our name and branding to our outstanding and dedicated customer service.”

The transaction is expected to close this fall, pending regulatory approvals and closing conditions.

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