Boots UK

Boots UK Limited (trading as Boots) is a health and beauty retailer and pharmacy chain in the United Kingdom and other territories including Ireland, Norway, the Netherlands, and Thailand. Founded in 1849 by John Boot, it has become one of the UK's most recognisable high street brands, with stores in most high streets across the country. Boots UK is a subsidiary of the American retail and pharmacy company, Walgreens Boots Alliance.

History

Boots was established in 1849, by John Boot. After his father's death in 1860, Jesse Boot, aged 10, helped his mother run the family's herbal medicine shop in Nottingham, which was the foundation of the Boots empire. By 1883, the company had expanded to include manufacturing and began to branch out into a variety of pharmaceutical and photographic products. The business was transformed into a national concern by Jesse Boot, who sold it to the American company United Drug Company in 1920. However, in 1933, the Boot family reacquired a controlling interest. In the late 20th century, Boots expanded into optician services and established a presence on numerous high streets.

Operations

Boots operates a retail chain of stores across the United Kingdom and Ireland, offering a wide range of products including health and beauty, medicine, and photographic services. The company also operates an online store. Boots is also known for its 'Advantage Card' loyalty program, which rewards customers for their purchases with points that can be redeemed against future purchases.

Pharmacy Services

Boots pharmacies offer a variety of services beyond the dispensing of prescriptions, including flu vaccinations, travel vaccinations, and health checks. The company has been at the forefront of integrating pharmacy services within the retail environment, aiming to make healthcare more accessible.

Boots Opticians

In 1987, Boots diversified into optician services with the acquisition of Clement Clarke Ltd and Curry and Paxton Ltd. Boots Opticians has since become one of the UK's leading opticians, offering eye tests, glasses, and contact lenses.

Boots No7

One of Boots' most famous brands is No7, a brand of skincare and cosmetic products that was launched in 1935. The brand has gained international recognition and is known for its anti-aging beauty serum, which has been scientifically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Boots UK is involved in various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, focusing on community health, sustainable sourcing, and reducing its environmental impact. The company supports various charitable causes and has partnerships with organizations such as Macmillan Cancer Support and BBC Children in Need.

Controversies

Boots has faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding its pricing strategies, tax arrangements, and workplace practices. In recent years, the company has been under scrutiny for its high pricing of certain products compared to other retailers and for its approach to tax planning.

Ownership

As of the early 21st century, Boots is part of Walgreens Boots Alliance, a global leader in pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing retail. The merger with Walgreens in 2014 created a platform for Boots to expand its brand internationally.

See Also

• Pharmacy in the United Kingdom
• Walgreens Boots Alliance
• Healthcare in the United Kingdom