Despite posting solid sales gains and strong retail pharmacy performance in the United States, Walgreens Boots Alliance came up against industry-wide headwinds in its fiscal second quarter.
Walgreens Boots Alliance executive vice chairman and CEO Stefano Pessina noted to analysts that the company would be focused on improving its speed to adapt and address industry headwinds.
As Walgreens tests locations without tobacco products, its parent company’s CEO Stefano Pessina said it would continue to sell cigarettes in most stores while highlighting smoking cessation options.
Vivek Sankaran will take the reigns as president and CEO effective April 25. Current president and CEO Jim Donald will become co-chairman of the company's board, alongside Leonard Laufer.