Leading position in the high-growth chain drug retail industry based on sales and units; Strong management team; Long history of success in drug retailing; and Strong balance sheet and good liquidity. Participates in a highly competitive industry; and Integration risk of Eckerd's Southern stores. The ratings reflect CVS Corp.'s solid position in the favorably regarded drugstore industry and its generally good operating performance. CVS, with almost 5,500 units, is the largest chain drug retailer in the U.S., based on store count. Prescriptions, which constitute about 71% of the company's revenues, continue to drive growth and are expected to do well, based on an aging population, greater use of pharmaceuticals in outpatient therapy, and the ongoing development of new drug products.
