/R E P E A T -- Shoppers Drug Mart marks historic COVID-19 milestone with first vaccine in pharmacy in Nova Scotia/

TORONTO, March 16, 2021 /CNW/ - Today, Shoppers Drug Mart in Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia delivered the first COVID-19 vaccines in a Shoppers Drug Mart, marking a milestone in the ongoing efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Select additional Shoppers Drug Mart and Atlantic Superstore pharmacy locations will begin to administer the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines in the coming weeks for those 80 years or older, as well as a few additional pharmacies administering the COVID vaccine developed by AstraZenica to those 63-64 years of age.

"Pharmacists are among the most trusted healthcare professionals, providing convenient and accessible community-level health services. We commend the Nova Scotia government for allowing pharmacists to join the immunization campaign in the province," said Jeff Leger, President, Shoppers Drug Mart. "Across Canada, there are more than 10,000 pharmacies, in rural areas and urban centres. Based on the most recent flu season, it is expected that community pharmacies could vaccinate up to 3 million Canadians each week."

Vaccines will be available at 15 Loblaw-owned pharmacies in Nova Scotia in the coming weeks. For information about which stores are participating, as well as eligibility and how to book a vaccine appointment, please visit www.shoppersdrugmart.ca

About Loblaw Companies Limited

Loblaw Companies Limited is Canada's food and pharmacy leader, with a network of more than 2,400 corporate, franchised and Associate-owned locations in communities across the country. Loblaw's purpose – Live Life Well® – supports the needs and well-being of Canadians who make one billion visits each year to the company's stores.

Led by Shoppers Drug Mart, the leader in Canada's retail drug store marketplace and the number one provider of pharmacy products and services, Loblaw offers full-service pharmacies and professional care in more than 1,800 locations in 10 provinces and 2 territories, including in Shoppers Drug Mart, PharmaPrix, Loblaw pharmacy, DRUGStore Pharmacy and CENTRESante locations.

SOURCE Loblaw Companies Limited