In 1901, Walgreens was established as a local drug store in Chicago, Ill. The fascinating story of how Charles R. Walgreen, Sr. entered the drug store industry is quite remarkable. During his teenage years, he unfortunately lost a portion of his middle finger while employed at a shoe factory, thus putting an end to his sports activities. To keep himself engaged, he decided to work at a drug store for a year and a half. In 1893, Walgreen relocated to Chicago, a city where over 1,500 drug stores were in fierce competition. Not wanting to rely on his family's resources, he worked at multiple drug stores and eventually convinced one of the owners to sell him the business. It took him several years to repay the loan. Today, Walgreens has expanded into a chain of pharmacy stores offering a wide array of products ranging from cosmetics, personal care items, sexual wellness products, contacts and glasses, school and office supplies, pet supplies, small appliances, groceries, and seasonal items. They also provide natural and organic products in their inventory.