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Canada's Weston family buys pharmacy chain Boots for $8.9 billion
The Weston family is expanding its retail empire with a $8.9 billion purchase of the U.K. drugstore chain, including debt.
- On Wednesday, October 7, 2026, Canada's Wittington Investments announced an agreement to acquire the UK pharmacy chain Boots from Sycamore Partners and the Pessina family for $8.9 billion, including debt.
- The Weston family, which controls Canada's Loblaw Companies Ltd. and Shoppers Drug Mart, expands its retail empire after previously owning and selling the British department store Selfridges for approximately $6.9 billion in 2022.
- Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. is backing the transaction with an equity commitment of approximately $2.3 billion. Upon completion, Fairfax will own 50% of the equity, while Wittington retains operational control.
- Galen Weston, chairman of Wittington and Loblaw, will serve as Chair of Boots. The company plans to boost performance by importing concepts like the PC Optimum loyalty program to Boots' 17 million British members.
- Expected to close in the first quarter of 2027, the acquisition includes Boots' retail operations in the UK and Ireland, Boots Opticians, and No7 Beauty Company, while excluding businesses in Germany and Mexico.
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High street pharmacy giant Boots is set to be taken over in a deal worth £6.7 billion- but what does it mean for customers and staff in Somerset?
·Somerset, United Kingdom
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The Weston family's Wittington Investments, in partnership with Fairfax, will take control of the British retailer, with plans to invest in store upgrades, online enhancements and expanded health care services.
·New York, United States
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Weston family's holding company to buy U.K. pharmacy chain Boots for $12.7B
The Weston family holding company Wittington Investments said Wednesday that it will purchase the U.K. chain Boots for $8.9 billion US, including debt, from private equity firm Sycamore Partners. Boots is one of Britain's most prominent retailers.
·Ottawa, Canada
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Total News Sources45
Leaning Left11Leaning Right5Center16Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
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50% Center
L 34%
C 50%
R 16%
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