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. While Standard&Poor's Ratings Services considers CVS an efficient store operator, the Woonsocket, R.I.-based company could be challenged in integrating the southern Eckerd stores acquired from J.C. Penney Co. Inc. Although the acquisition offers CVS leading positions in high-growth areas, the Eckerd chain
