Duane Reade customers surprised by Walgreen deal, hope chain keeps NYC identity

Duane Reade NYC shoppers hope chain keeps identity

NEW YORK — The Duane Reade drugstore chain is ubiquitous in parts of New York City yet exists nowhere else.

Now that Walgreen has announced it will buy the chain, Duane Reade shoppers are wondering how the stores will be affected.

Marcia Barran and Natalie Fleysher were admiring the newest Duane Reade, which opened Wednesday in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood.

The two women said they grew up shopping at Duane Reade, and they were worried when they learned of the Walgreen deal. Barran said she would wait and see what happens.

Walgreen officials have said the two brands will remain separate for the foreseeable future.

There are 257 Duane Reade stores in the New York metropolitan area.