Rite Aid to resume new-store development, mulls new prototype.(Brief Article)

CAMP HILL, Pa. -- In addition to announcing first quarter results yesterday, Rite Aid stated it would renew its new-store growth engine as soon as 2004.

Rite Aid executives also told analysts during a conference call yesterday that the chain is considering a new store prototype, but said it is too early to discuss details.

The chain plans to open at least 75 new stores toward the end of fiscal 2005, which starts Feb. 29, 2004, and roughly 100 new stores balanced over fiscal 2006. The new stores will be located in the chain's strongest markets and, in many cases, will replace existing units.

Rite Aid reported a first quarter net loss of $38.8 …