Easter bunny, new generics affect Rite Aid comps

CAMP HILL, Pa. — Rite Aid's same-store sales decreased 4% in April compared with April 2012 due to an earlier Easter and introductions of new generic drugs, the retail pharmacy chain said.

The numbers released Thursday included a 3.5% decrease in sales on the front end and a 4% decrease in pharmacy sales, but the pharmacy figure included a 4.5% negative effect due to new generics. Same-store prescription count decreased by 0.2%.

Total sales for the month were $1.9 billion, a 4.6% decrease over April 2012's $2 billion.

Same-store sales for the eight-week period that ended Saturday decreased by 3%, including a 0.1% increase in front-end same-store sales and a 4.4% decrease in pharmacy same-store sales. Same-store prescription count increased by 0.1%.

Total store sales for that period were $3.8 billion, a 3.5% decrease over the same period last year, when sales were $4 billion.