SAN FRANCISCO, Aug 14, 2002 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- McKesson Corporation announced today that it has signed a comprehensive pharmaceutical distribution agreement with Spartan Stores, Inc., a premier regional grocery/drugstore retailer and wholesale distributor based in Grand Rapids, Mich. Under the terms of the agreement, McKesson will be the primary supplier of pharmaceuticals to Spartan Stores' pharmacies and affiliate members.

"We are pleased to partner with McKesson, a total healthcare company," commented Don Clark, Divisional Vice President, Pharmacy, Spartan Stores, Inc. "As our business grows and we develop and meet our strategic goals, it is important to partner with a company that understands and can competently adapt to the changing healthcare environment."

"Our world-class solutions that enhance supply management and distribution systems made us an attractive choice for Spartan Stores," remarked Jack Fragie, executive vice president, National Accounts, McKesson Pharmaceutical. "We are confident that our product consistency, quality, innovation, and high customer service levels will add value and assist Spartan Stores in increasing efficiencies and meeting their strategic goals."

Based in Grand Rapids, Mich., Spartan Stores, Inc. owns and operates 100 supermarkets and 25 deep-discount drug stores in Michigan and Ohio, including: Ashcraft's Markets, Family Fare Supermarkets, Food Town, Glen's Markets, Great Day Food Centers, Prevo's Family Markets and the Pharm. The company also distributes more than 40,000 private-label and national brand products to more than 330 independent grocery stores and serves as a wholesale distributor to 6,600 convenience stores.

McKesson Corporation is the leading provider of supply, information and care management products and services designed to reduce costs and improve quality across healthcare. McKesson solutions empower healthcare professionals with the tools they need to deliver care more effectively and efficiently. Founded in 1833, with annual revenues of more than US $50 billion, McKesson ranks as the 31st largest industrial company in the United States. For more information visit our website at http://www.mckesson.com.

McKesson Corporation

CONTACT:
McKesson Corporation
Patrice Smith, 415/983-9262
or
Spartan Stores, Inc.
Jeanne Norcross, 616/878-2305

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