Our Story: A Legacy of Care and Community

Longs Drugs® has a rich history that spans decades, rooted in a commitment to serving our communities with compassion and excellence.

In 1938, brothers Thomas and Joseph Long embarked on a mission to create a different kind of drugstore—one that would be more than just a place to pick up prescriptions. They envisioned a hub of health, wellness and community connection. And so, Longs Self-Service Drugs was born, with its very first store on Piedmont Avenue in Oakland, CA.

Longs took an exciting turn in 1954, when we opened our doors in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. The warm embrace of the Hawaiian islands welcomed us and we reciprocated by becoming an integral part of the fabric of the community. From that moment on, Longs Drugs® became synonymous with care, trust and ‘Ohana.

As the years unfolded we expanded across the mainland. By 1982, we had 162 stores and had surpassed the $1 billion mark in sales—a testament to the trust our customers have in us.

In 1987, we acquired Osco drugstores in California and Colorado, further strengthening our presence. We also formed RxAmerica in collaboration with American Drug Stores Inc. Our dedication to innovation and customer well-being remained unwavering.

For decades, the Longs family guided our ship. But in 2003, a significant shift occurred: Bob Long, our Chairman and CEO, stepped down, marking the first time a founding family member wasn’t at the helm. Yet, our commitment to community remained steadfast.

Fast forward to the present. Longs Drugs, now with CVS Health®, continues to thrive. With approximately 70 drugstores across Hawai‘i, we honor our roots while. Our legacy lives on, fueled by the same spirit of care that began on that sunny day in Oakland. Join us as we write the next chapter—a chapter that celebrates health, compassion and the enduring bond we share with our communities.