Well.ca is one of the largest web-only e-retailers in Canada. McKesson Canada owns the Rexall Drug Store chain.

Well.ca, one of Canada’s largest web-only retailers, has been acquired by McKesson Canada, a pharmaceutical distributor and subsidiary of the U.S.-based McKesson Corp. Terms were not disclosed.

The companies say Well.ca will continue to operate as Well.ca, but that the health and beauty site’s e-commerce capabilities will add to McKesson Canada’s retail businesses. McKesson Canada acquired the Rexall Drug Store chain in December 2016 in a C$2.9 billion deal (about US$2.1 billion). Rexall, Canada’s second largest pharmacy chain, does not sell online. (The Canadian Rexall chain is unaffiliated with the U.S. health products brand of the same name.)

Earlier this year McKesson Canada also acquired Uniprix and Proxim, pharmacy networks that operate in Quebec and have nearly 600 locations between them.

“Today’s customer wants a digital experience,” says Domenic Pilla, CEO of McKesson Canada. “Combined with McKesson Canada’s distribution network and retail footprint, patients and customers will have convenient access and more choices to achieve their health and wellness goals.” At the time of publication, Rexall.ca is promoting its relationship with Well.ca by offering $10 off a purchase of $40 or more for new Well.ca customers, and linking visitors to Well.ca.

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Well.ca, which launched online in 2008, carries about 40,000 health, beauty and personal care product SKUs. It has grown to be one of Canada’s largest e-retailers. It is the seventh-largest web-only e-retailer in Canada and No. 22 overall, according to the 2017 E-Commerce in Canada Report from Internet Retailer. The e-retailer raised about $10 million from investors and Rebecca McKillican, CEO of Well.ca, said in 2016 that Well.ca was profitable.

“Well.ca’s digital-first approach to retail has continuously pushed the boundaries of the customer experience in Canada,” McKillican says. “Together with McKesson Canada, we will be able to establish new business relationships and accelerate our mission to help our customers live healthier and happier lives.”

 

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