Mid-Missouri’s flock to Whaley’s original location before next week’s closing

Jefferson City-area residents have been packing Whaley’s East End drug store, to get one more drink from its old-fashioned soda machine before it closes next week.

Whaley’s opened its doors on East High in 1943, with its popular soda fountain. A 939 the Eagle reporter was at that location on Thursday afternoon, and so many patrons were inside to order sodas that Whaley’s ran out of ice for sodas. Patrons didn’t mind and got sodas without ice.

Whaley’s has sold to Walgreens, and Tuesday will be the final day for the Whaley’s stores. Whaley’s statement to its customers says the independent pharmacy industry has become more challenging over the past several years, citing an increase in cost for goods and a decrease in reimbursement from insurance companies.

Whaley’s says its pharmacy and soda fountain have helped people get well and put smiles on their faces with Cherry cokes since 1943. Tuesday will be the final day for the three Jefferson City Whaley’s stores.