North Shore Pharmacy closing its doors

As of today, Friday, April 5, the North Shore Pharmacy in Grand Marais is no longer taking or filling prescriptions. After about two years at the pharmacy, formerly the Arrowhead Pharmacy, owner Corey Malstrom is closing the business.

Malstrom has reached an arrangement with Grand Marais Pharmacy to take on the prescriptions held by North Shore Pharmacy. Malstrom and some staff will be on hand at the store until April 19 to answer questions and assist patients with the transfer process, if needed.

The retail section of the store will also be open until April 19 as remaining merchandise is sold. Malstrom said remaining merchandise and store displays will be donated to local nonprofits. 

As for the Dog Hus, the pet food and supply section of the store is already closed. Terri Goettl of Grand Marais is no longer operating her dog grooming there.

The North Shore Pharmacy building, owned by Mike and Laura Swartzwald, is for sale, listed by Edina Realty.

As for Malstrom, he said he is leaving to be with his spouse in Duluth.

From his time working as an independent pharmacist, Malstrom said he recognizes the need for temporary help for vacations or illnesses. Malstrom plans to become a fill-in pharmacist for other independent pharmacies.

Malstrom acknowledged that his arrival at the former North Shore Pharmacy was difficult, after the former majority owners of Arrowhead Pharmacy, the Swartzwalds, had been found to be improperly compensating the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic for drugs obtained under the federal 340B drug program. However, he declined speaking further on that.

Instead, Malstrom thanked the community for welcoming him and said he had enjoyed getting to know his patients. He said he loves Grand Marais and will definitely be back to visit with his family.

WTIP's Rhonda Silence spoke with Corey Malstrom about the closure.