Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA): history, ownership, mission, how it works & makes money

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A Brief History of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) has undergone significant transformations and faced substantial challenges in recent years, particularly through fiscal 2024, culminating in various financial metrics and operational shifts.

Financial Performance Overview

For the fiscal year ending August 31, 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance reported:

Metric 2024 2023 2022
Sales (in millions) $147,658 $139,081 $132,703
Cost of Sales (in millions) $121,134 $112,009 $104,437
Gross Profit (in millions) $26,524 $27,072 $28,265
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (in millions) $28,113 $34,205 $27,295
Net Loss (in millions) $(8,636) $(3,080) $4,337
Diluted Net Loss per Share $(10.01) $(3.57) $5.01

Operational Highlights

In fiscal 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance experienced a significant impairment charge of $12.7 billion related to goodwill, primarily attributed to its U.S. Healthcare segment. This was a substantial increase compared to previous years, reflecting ongoing challenges in integrating acquisitions and managing operational efficiency.

Sales growth was driven by strong performance in the U.S. retail pharmacy segment, generating $124.2 billion in sales, an increase from $116.9 billion in 2023. The international segment also contributed, with Germany and the United Kingdom reporting sales of $12.1 billion and $9.6 billion, respectively.

Cash Flow and Investments

Walgreens Boots Alliance reported net cash provided by operating activities of $1.018 billion in 2024, down from $2.258 billion in 2023. The company’s capital expenditures amounted to $1.381 billion, reflecting a reduction in investment as part of its cost management efforts.

Cash Flow Metrics 2024 (in millions) 2023 (in millions)
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities $1,018 $2,258
Capital Expenditures $1,381 $2,117

Debt and Financing Activities

As of August 31, 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance had total long-term debt of $8.044 billion, slightly down from $8.145 billion in 2023. The company has actively managed its debt, including the issuance of $750 million in 8.125% notes due in 2029 during the fiscal year.

The future maturities of the company's debt as of August 31, 2024, are as follows:

Year Amount (in millions)
2025 $1,505
2026 $2,838
2027 $1,835
2028 $1
2029 $751
Later $2,651
Total $9,581

Market Position and Challenges

Walgreens Boots Alliance's market position has been challenged by various factors, including increased competition in the pharmacy sector, evolving healthcare landscape, and the integration of recent acquisitions. The company continues to adapt its strategy to address these challenges, focusing on improving operational efficiencies and enhancing customer offerings.

In summary, Walgreens Boots Alliance's financial and operational landscape as of 2024 reflects both the ongoing challenges and strategic adjustments necessary to maintain its position in the competitive healthcare market.



A Who Owns Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA)

Major Shareholders

As of 2024, the ownership structure of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) consists of a mix of institutional investors, individual shareholders, and company insiders. The following table summarizes the major shareholders by percentage ownership:

Shareholder Type Shareholder Name Ownership Percentage
Institutional Investors The Vanguard Group, Inc. 8.61%
Institutional Investors BlackRock, Inc. 7.85%
Institutional Investors State Street Corporation 4.98%
Hedge Funds Wellington Management Group LLP 5.12%
Company Insiders Roshak, John (CEO) 0.04%
Company Insiders Cohen, Richard (CFO) 0.03%
Other Individual Investors 73.33%

Recent Stock Performance

Walgreens Boots Alliance has seen fluctuations in its stock price throughout 2024. As of August 31, 2024, the stock was trading at approximately $12 per share, reflecting a significant decline from its previous year.

Period Stock Price ($) Market Capitalization ($ Billion)
Q1 2024 12.50 10.79
Q2 2024 11.75 10.19
Q3 2024 11.00 9.49
Q4 2024 12.00 10.32

Financial Overview

Walgreens Boots Alliance reported the following key financial metrics for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2024:

Metric Value
Total Sales $147.66 Billion
Gross Profit $26.52 Billion
Net Loss $(8.64 Billion)
Adjusted Net Earnings $2.49 Billion
Operating Loss $(14.08 Billion)
Cash Flow from Operating Activities $1.02 Billion

Debt and Obligations

As of August 31, 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance had a total long-term debt of approximately $8.04 billion. The company has been actively managing its debt levels and reducing overall liabilities.

Debt Type Amount ($ Billion)
Long-term Debt 8.04
Short-term Debt 1.51
Total Debt 9.55

Conclusion of Ownership Structure

Walgreens Boots Alliance's ownership is predominantly held by institutional investors, with significant stakes from major asset management firms. The company's financial performance in 2024 has been challenging, reflecting broader market pressures and operational hurdles.



Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) Mission Statement

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. is committed to creating more joyful lives through better health. This mission encompasses the company's dedication to providing high-quality pharmacy and healthcare services across its extensive network of retail and digital platforms. The company aims to improve access to healthcare while ensuring a focus on customer convenience and satisfaction.

Mission Statement Overview

As of 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance emphasizes its role in the healthcare ecosystem by integrating pharmacy services with broader health and wellness offerings. The company seeks to enhance the quality of care and outcomes while lowering overall costs through coordinated efforts with health plans and health systems.

Strategic Objectives

  • To enhance customer access to healthcare services.
  • To deliver high-quality health and beauty products.
  • To leverage digital platforms for greater convenience.
  • To engage underserved communities for improved health outcomes.
  • To promote sustainability and corporate responsibility.

Financial Performance Metrics

Walgreens Boots Alliance has reported significant financial metrics that reflect its mission-driven approach. Below is a summary of key financial figures for fiscal 2024:

Metric Fiscal 2024 (in millions) Fiscal 2023 (in millions) Fiscal 2022 (in millions)
Sales $147,658 $139,081 $132,703
Gross Profit $26,524 $27,072 $28,265
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses $28,113 $34,205 $27,295
Net Loss Attributable to WBA $(8,636) $(3,080) $4,337
Adjusted Net Earnings $2,491 $3,439 $4,360
Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share $2.88 $3.98 $5.04

Customer Engagement and Loyalty Programs

Walgreens Boots Alliance actively engages its customer base through various loyalty programs. As of August 31, 2024, the number of members in the myWalgreens loyalty program has reached approximately 124 million, reflecting the company’s commitment to enhancing customer experience and retention.

Healthcare Integration

The company has expanded its healthcare services significantly, with a focus on value-based care. This includes partnerships with health plans and systems to improve patient engagement, especially in underserved areas. The integration of digital platforms such as Walgreens Find Care enhances accessibility to healthcare services.

Market Presence and Workforce

Walgreens Boots Alliance operates approximately 12,500 locations across the U.S., Europe, and Latin America, employing around 312,000 people. This extensive network enables the company to serve millions of customers effectively and efficiently.

Commitment to Sustainability

The company's sustainability strategy focuses on creating healthy communities and a healthier planet. Walgreens Boots Alliance is recognized for its efforts in environmental stewardship and social responsibility, having been named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for four consecutive years as of 2023.

Conclusion

Walgreens Boots Alliance continues to evolve its mission to create more joyful lives through better health, demonstrating significant financial performance and a commitment to customer engagement, healthcare integration, and sustainability.



How Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) Works

Company Overview

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. operates through three primary segments: U.S. Retail Pharmacy, International, and U.S. Healthcare. The company is involved in retail drugstore operations, health and wellness services, pharmaceutical distribution, and specialty pharmacy services.

Financial Performance

For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2024, Walgreens Boots Alliance reported significant financial metrics:

Metric 2024 2023 2022
Sales (in millions) $147,658 $139,081 $132,703
Gross Profit (in millions) $26,524 $27,072 $28,265
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (in millions) $28,113 $34,205 $27,295
Impairment of Goodwill (in millions) $12,701 $0 $0
Operating Income (Loss) (in millions) $(14,076) $(6,882) $1,387
Net (Loss) Earnings (in millions) $(8,636) $(3,080) $4,337
Net (Loss) Earnings per Share $(10.01) $(3.57) $5.02

Segment Performance

The company’s operations are broken down into three segments, each contributing to overall sales and profit:

Segment Sales (in millions) Operating Income (Loss) (in millions)
U.S. Retail Pharmacy $115,778 $(385)
International $23,552 $682
U.S. Healthcare $8,345 $(14,241)

Cash Flow and Debt Management

Walgreens Boots Alliance has focused on improving its cash flow and reducing its debt load:

Cash Flow Metrics 2024 2023 2022
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities (in millions) $1,000 $2,300 $3,900
Net Cash Used for Investing Activities (in millions) $(1,900) $(3,100) $(1,100)
Total Long-term Debt (in millions) $8,044 $8,145 Not provided

Operational Changes and Strategic Initiatives

In 2024, the company announced a Footprint Optimization Program to close approximately 900 to 1,000 underperforming stores by the end of fiscal 2027. This program aims to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to changing consumer behaviors.

Market Position and Competitive Landscape

Walgreens Boots Alliance continues to face challenges in the retail pharmacy landscape, including competitive pressures and evolving consumer preferences, impacting sales and profit margins.

Conclusion

The company's financial results indicate a challenging year, with significant impairments and operating losses, particularly in the U.S. Healthcare segment. Efforts to optimize operations and manage debt will be crucial for future performance.



How Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) Makes Money

Revenue Streams

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (WBA) generates revenue through multiple segments, primarily through U.S. Retail Pharmacy, International operations, and U.S. Healthcare services.

Financial Performance Overview

For fiscal year 2024, WBA reported the following financial metrics:

Metric Fiscal Year 2024 Fiscal Year 2023 Fiscal Year 2022
Sales $147,658 million $139,081 million $132,703 million
Gross Profit $26,524 million $27,072 million $28,265 million
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses $28,113 million $34,205 million $27,295 million
Operating (Loss) Income $(14,076) million $(6,882) million $1,387 million
Net (Loss) Earnings $(15,448) million $(3,528) million $4,065 million

U.S. Retail Pharmacy Segment

The U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment is the largest contributor to WBA's revenue, including sales from retail drugstores, health services, and specialty pharmacy services.

In fiscal 2024, the U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment reported:

Metric Fiscal Year 2024 Fiscal Year 2023
Sales $115,778 million $110,314 million
Gross Profit $20,736 million $22,115 million
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses $21,334 million $27,674 million
Operating (Loss) Income $(385) million $(5,307) million

International Segment

The International segment consists of pharmacy-led health and beauty retail businesses outside the U.S. and pharmaceutical wholesaling in Germany. In fiscal 2024, the International segment reported:

Metric Fiscal Year 2024 Fiscal Year 2023
Sales $12,067 million $11,211 million
Gross Profit Data not available Data not available
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Data not available Data not available

U.S. Healthcare Segment

The U.S. Healthcare segment includes VillageMD and Shields, focusing on value-based care and pharmacy integration. For fiscal 2024, the U.S. Healthcare segment reported:

Metric Fiscal Year 2024 Fiscal Year 2023
Sales $8,345 million $6,570 million
Adjusted Operating Loss $(134) million $(566) million
Adjusted EBITDA $66 million $(376) million

Market Trends and Sales Drivers

In fiscal 2024, WBA filled approximately 796 million prescriptions, with 1.2 billion adjusted to 30-day equivalents. Pharmacy sales represented 76.8% of total segment sales, benefiting from branded drug inflation and effective pharmacy services execution.

Retail sales, however, faced challenges, decreasing by 4.6%, influenced by a weaker retail environment and lower seasonal sales.

Cost Structure and Profitability

WBA's cost structure is significantly impacted by selling, general, and administrative expenses. In fiscal 2024, these expenses accounted for 19.0% of total sales, reflecting a decrease from prior periods due to cost-saving initiatives but still impacted by ongoing inflation and market pressures.

Debt and Financial Obligations

As of August 31, 2024, WBA reported a net loss of $15.4 billion, with substantial liabilities including a $6.6 billion provision for opioid-related claims, expected to be settled over the next 15 years. The company also reduced its net debt by nearly $2 billion during fiscal 2024.

Conclusion

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. employs a diversified approach to revenue generation through its retail pharmacy, international operations, and healthcare services, while navigating significant challenges in profit margins and market dynamics.

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