Indianapolis - More than a dozen local Osco drug stores are changing to a new name, with new ownership. CVS Pharmacy officially purchased Osco last week. Right now, some Osco stores are very close to existing CVS stores, and the future of those Osco branches is uncertain.
For many Hoosier shoppers, the corner pharmacy feels like home. It's a familiar place for filling prescriptions or just buying shampoo.
"I've been coming here for years. I prefer Osco," said Joan Fredrick, Osco customer.
But customers are in for a change. Osco is out and CVS is moving in.
"It still just looks like Osco right now. They just had a sign up expressing different items coming soon," said Cynthia Schmuhl, another Osco customer.
CVS, now the number one US pharmacy chain, purchased Osco's parent company. The nearly $3 billion deal includes about 15 Osco stores in the Indianapolis area. Signs of the sale, finalized last week, now decorate Osco's doors. Flyers go home with each purchase.
Some customers don't mind the switch.
"As long as the prices are you know, in line, I should say, it don't matter," said Ilse Boucher.
"Not as long as the service stays the same," said Claudia, another Osco customer.
But what about stores like the one at Madison and Stop 11? It's an Osco, now owned and operated by CVS, right across the street from another CVS. It raises the question of potential store closures.
The answer is still unclear. CVS tells Eyewitness News it's "reviewing all locations and no decisions about specific store closings have been made." Any announcements about closings will happen later.
Osco managers say jobs are guaranteed, even if stores shut down. But the uncertainty's created customer concern.
"That means they're going to move my prescription over there and I won't let them do it," aid Robert Chauvette.
Osco's discount cards are no longer needed, according to CVS headquarters. Discounts are now automatic at check-out. Bringing loyal Osco shoppers to CVS may not be so automatic.
"I don't know. I just don't feel comfortable there. So I'll probably go to Walgreens," said Joan Fredrick.
Storefront changes from Osco to CVS will start next month and continue through the fall. One Osco manager said they're meeting with CVS this Thursday. That's when they hope to hear more about which stores may close.
