Rexall is a brand name historically associated with a chain of North American drugstores and a line of pharmaceutical products. Founded in 1903 by Louis K. Liggett, it originated as a cooperative of independent druggists operating under the banner of the United Drug Company. These pharmacists would purchase stock in the company and sell Rexall-branded products in their stores, often bearing the Rexall name.
History The United Drug Company was established to provide independent pharmacies with a competitive edge against larger chains and department stores by offering their own line of proprietary medications, health products, and household goods under the Rexall brand. The cooperative model allowed member stores to benefit from bulk purchasing and shared marketing efforts. By the mid-20th century, Rexall became a ubiquitous presence in towns and cities across the United States and Canada, known for its pharmacies often featuring soda fountains, which were popular community gathering places.
During its peak, Rexall stores were prominent fixtures, offering a wide array of products including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, cosmetics, stationery, and general merchandise, in addition to prescription services. The company's "Rexall Drug Store" branding and distinctive signage became widely recognizable.
However, the original cooperative model faced increasing challenges from the rise of large national drugstore chains and discount retailers that could leverage greater economies of scale. The cooperative structure began to decline in the latter half of the 20th century, and many independent Rexall stores either closed or were absorbed by larger entities.
Brand Evolution and Current Status Over time, the Rexall brand evolved into distinct entities. The retail operations and the product line separated.
- In Canada: The Rexall brand continues to operate as a major drugstore chain. Rexall Pharmacy Group ULC, a subsidiary of McKesson Canada, operates a network of pharmacies primarily in Ontario, Quebec, and Western Canada. These stores offer a full range of pharmacy services, health and beauty products, and general merchandise.
- In the United States: The Rexall brand primarily exists as a line of over-the-counter health and wellness products, including vitamins, supplements, and generic medications. The rights to the Rexall brand for consumer products have been acquired and licensed by various companies over the years, with Perrigo Company plc being a significant current owner and distributor of Rexall-branded products in the U.S. market. The original retail footprint under the "Rexall" name largely disappeared in the U.S. in the late 20th century.
Despite the changes in its business model and ownership, the Rexall name maintains a historical legacy as one of the pioneering and most widespread drugstore brands in North American history.