date:Aug 07, 2014
US pharmacy chain Walgreens is reportedly near a complete takeover of UK pharmacy chain Boots.
Walgreens purchased 45 per cent of Boots shares in 2012, for approximately 4.3 billion. It retained a three-year option to pursue a full purchase, and it now looks like it will buy the remaining 55 per cent for approximately 5 billion. The majority of the remaining 55 per cent is owned by private equity firm KKR.
Walgreens had originally planned to move its corporate headquarters to the UK or Switzer