By Taylor J. Hale
Special to the Gazette

PORTAGE COUNTY — Shopko’s pharmacies are transferring to Kroger Co. owned Copps and other stores in Portage County, and throughout the state, after a purchase announcement was made in December by Kroger.

The changes would affect Stevens Point and Plover locations and will take place as soon as Jan. 6 in some areas, but some individuals are already getting prescriptions filled by means of existing transfer processes.

The switch is expected to go smoothly, with insurance provider info and other personal details shifting easily in the current systems. Patrons should inform their doctors of the swap. Customers have the option to pick up prescriptions from any of Kroger’s nexus of stores in Wisconsin, including Pick ‘n Save, Copps and Metro Market.

Some Stevens Point denizens are upset over the corporate changes, feeling that a new pharmacy would be arguably more beneficial to the city than a simple transfer.

“Wouldn’t a CVS on the north side, instead of a Burger King, give great options, convenience and healthy competition,” said a Portage County Facebook user. “Great location for college kids and north side folks!”

The inevitable transition is coming. For more info on the changes visit your local Shopko for ‘informational fliers. The Stevens Point Shopko pharmacy will be officially closed on Jan. 7, at 4 p.m. For additional local news check https://stevenspoint.wpengine.com.