L&R Distributors to acquire SAJ Distributors from Walgreen Co.

Brooklyn, N.Y.-based L&R Distributors Inc. said it entered into an agreement with Deerfield, Ill.-based Walgreen Co. to acquire the assets of SAJ Distributors, along with SAJ’s private label Select Brand line. Walgreen Co. acquired SAJ earlier this year when it purchased the regional drugstore chain from Stephen L. LaFrance Holdings, Inc. and members of the LaFrance family.

L&R will operate the existing SAJ distribution center and offices located in Pine Bluff, Ark., operating under the SAJ name and retaining many existing SAJ staff who work in customer service, accounting, purchasing and operations. L&R also will maintain the existing SAJ sales staff, delivery methods and inventory mix. This setup will ensure a "no change" turnkey solution for the existing SAJ family of customers, the company said.