Ritzman Pharmacy

Ritzman Pharmacy was a locally rooted pharmacy chain that began in Wadsworth, Ohio in 1950, founded by Elmer Ritzman. Starting as a single independent store, the company gradually expanded over the decades, serving communities across Northeast Ohio. By January 2019, Ritzman Pharmacy operated 23 locations, primarily in Summit, Medina, and nearby counties, with a focus on suburban and small-town markets.

Throughout its history, Ritzman Pharmacy built a reputation for personal service and community involvement, distinguishing itself from larger national chains by tailoring its offerings to local needs. In the years leading up to its acquisition, the company invested in technology and launched the Ritzman Wellness Center concept, integrating pharmacy services with holistic health programs. This approach reflected its commitment to evolving consumer preferences, such as medication synchronization and expanded immunization services.

A notable milestone came in January 2019, when CVS Health acquired Ritzman Pharmacy. Following the acquisition, all Ritzman locations were either rebranded as CVS or closed by November 2019. As a result, Ritzman Pharmacy ceased independent operations and no longer pursues new sites or real estate activity. Its legacy includes a flexible approach to store formats, ranging from traditional pharmacies to wellness-focused centers, and a track record of credibility and scale within its regional footprint. Today, the Ritzman name remains in archival use, with all real estate activity concluded after the CVS transition.