The transaction is subject to customary regulatory conditions and would include all 18 ApothecaryRx stores located in five states. The parties anticipate that the transaction will close in the fourth quarter of calendar year 2010.
"The divestiture of our pharmacy division will allow us to put full focus on our sleep apnea business and to continue to grow that segment both organically and through acquisitions," said Stanton Nelson, Chairman and CEO of Graymark Healthcare. "Rapid growth in the sleep segment, strong margins and the lack of a definitive market leader in the sleep apnea space makes this a very desirable area for our focus and investment," Nelson continued.
ApothecaryRx was founded in 2006 and purchased large successful independent retail pharmacies retaining their local identities and community focus. "After examining all the choices, we believe that these stores will now best be positioned to succeed and continue to serve the needs of their communities within the Walgreens family," added Nelson.
In 2009 Graymark Healthcare launched the nation's first comprehensive care model for the diagnosis, treatment and continued support of patients with obstructive sleep apnea. It has grown into one of the largest national aggregators of sleep therapy businesses.
Morgan Joseph LLC's Healthcare Investment Banking Group served as exclusive financial advisor to Graymark Healthcare on the transaction.
Graymark Healthcare, Inc. provides comprehensive care for people with sleep apnea. Graymark offers diagnostic services through its owned centers as well as through management agreements with hospitals, clinics and other care sites including patients' homes. Graymark offers treatment for sleep apnea through regional sites and longer term supportive care, including supplies, through its mail order and internet based programs. Graymark plans to continue its growth both internally and through strategic acquisitions related to the diagnosis and care of sleep apnea patients. Currently, Graymark Healthcare has a subsidiary that owns and operates independent retail pharmacies. Graymark plans to divest this subsidiary.