London Drugs shuts stores in Western Canada due to 'operational issue'

Retail and pharmacy chain London Drugs announced Sunday that stores across Western Canada will be closed "until further notice" as a result of what it's calling an "operational issue."

The retailer, which has headquarters in B.C., confirmed the news in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. In a post to Facebook, the company said the closure would not be permanent.

The chain said pharmacists would still support customers with urgent pharmacy needs, but anyone seeking information should call their local pharmacy to make arrangements.

CBC News spoke to staff at a location in Kamloops, B.C., who said they were experiencing a "computer issue," which meant the store could not assist customers.

In a statement to CBC News, London Drugs said it will provide updates as they progress in resolving the issue.

"We apologize for any inconvenience caused," the statement said.

The company said more updates are expected on Sunday afternoon.

The retailer operates nearly 80 stores across B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with more than 50 of them located in B.C.