It's official: this is the chain that's closing over 500 locations in the USA

The economic impact left by the pandemic and other factors continues to affect many companies in the United States. Some well-known firms are seeing their locations close en masse, even though this doesn't directly depend on their actions or decisions. These types of situations can create harsh consequences for both employees and customers.

One of the chains that has just confirmed the closure of more than 500 locations is Rite Aid, a very popular pharmacy brand across the country. The news also affects one of its most iconic brands: Thrifty Ice Cream, known for its iconic ice cream counters inside the pharmacies. This decision is part of the bankruptcy process Rite Aid is facing, a process that could put the future of this well-known firm at risk.

The Story Behind Thrifty Ice Cream and Its Link With Rite Aid

Thrifty Ice Cream has a long tradition that dates back to 1940, when it was launched in a small factory in West Hollywood. Over time, it became an icon on the West Coast, famous for its craft-made quality and innovative flavors, some as unique as Sriracha Swirl or Bacon & Cheddar. The company has kept a loyal team for decades that produces the ice cream by hand, creating a special connection with its customers.

This ice cream is particularly known for its distinctive presentation: a "square cone," thanks to a special patent on the way it is served. Its presence in Rite Aid pharmacies with traditional counters has been a hallmark for thousands of consumers who consider it a classic experience. However, since these locations are inside the pharmacies, Rite Aid's bankruptcy directly means their closure, reports The Street.

What Will Happen to Thrifty Ice Cream and the Closed Locations

The closure of nearly 500 counters inside Rite Aid pharmacies is confirmed as part of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. Because these stores are an integral part of the pharmacies, they can't be sold separately, which complicates the continuity of the business in that specific format. However, Thrifty Ice Cream is also sold in the frozen section of major chains like Albertsons and Vons, where its sale could continue.

In addition, there are some Thrifty Ice Cream counters that operate as independent franchises and don't depend directly on Rite Aid. This leaves a small hope that the brand will remain present in some regions.

The sale of Thrifty Ice Cream as part of the bankruptcy assets could allow a buyer to keep production and distribution. It could even be transformed into a new business within the food industry. However, as often happens in these cases, the future of the brand remains uncertain and will depend on who decides to bet on it.