0001618921-23-000062 | 10-K | XBRL Viewer | Walgreens Boots Alliance INC

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Goodwill and other intangible assets - schedule of finite-lived intangible assets, future amortization expense (Details) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)
Estimated annual amortization expense
2024	$ 930
2025	884
2026	852
2027	773
2028	$ 697

Exit and disposal activities - restructuring reserve activity (Details) - Transformational cost management program - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 113	$ 114
Costs	1,158	690
Payments	(320)	(323)
Other - non cash	(849)	(367)
Ending balance	102	113
Lease obligations and other real estate costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	10	17
Costs	516	249
Payments	(105)	(99)
Other - non cash	(411)	(157)
Ending balance	10	10
Asset impairments
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0	0
Costs	441	190
Payments	0	0
Other - non cash	(441)	(190)
Ending balance	0	0
Employee severance and business transition costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	76	77
Costs	150	210
Payments	(160)	(201)
Other - non cash	2	(9)
Ending balance	70	76
Information technology transformation and other exit costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	27	20
Costs	51	40
Payments	(55)	(23)
Other - non cash	0	(11)
Ending balance	$ 22	$ 27

Discontinued operations - narrative (Details) - Discontinued operations, disposed of by sale - Alliance Healthcare - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 01, 2021	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Consideration from disposal	$ 6,900
Proceeds from disposal, subject to net working capital and net cash adjustments	$ 6,700
Shares issued as part of disposal (in shares)	2
Estimated gain before currency translation adjustments	$ 1,100
Net gain on disposal	$ 322		$ 322
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration]	Net earnings from discontinued operations
Receivable for purchase consideration		$ 98
Disposal group, contingent consideration, working capital adjustments		$ 38

Related parties (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Schedule of related party transactions

Related party transactions with Cencora (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Purchases, net	$	65,173	$	62,174	$	62,513

Trade accounts payable, net of receivables	$	7,814	$	6,915	$	6,589

See Note 2. Discontinued operations for further information.

Exit and disposal activities

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Exit and disposal activities

Transformational Cost Management Program

On December 20, 2018, the Company announced a transformational cost management program that was expected to deliver in excess of $2.0 billion of annual cost savings by fiscal 2022 (the “Transformational Cost Management Program”). The Company achieved this goal at the end of fiscal 2021.

On October 12, 2021, the Company expanded and extended the Transformational Cost Management Program through the end of fiscal 2024 and increased its annual cost savings target to $3.3 billion by the end of fiscal 2024. In fiscal 2022, the Company increased its annual cost savings target from $3.3 billion to $3.5 billion, by the end of fiscal 2024. In fiscal 2023, the Company increased its annual cost savings target from $3.5 billion to $4.5 billion by the end of fiscal 2024. The Company is currently on track to achieve the savings target.

The Transformational Cost Management Program, which is multi-faceted and includes divisional optimization initiatives, global smart spending, global smart organization and the transformation of the Company’s information technology (IT) capabilities, is designed to help the Company achieve increased cost efficiencies. To date, the Company has taken actions across all aspects of the Transformational Cost Management Program which focus primarily on the U.S. Retail Pharmacy and International reportable segments along with the Company's global functions. Divisional optimization within the Company’s segments includes activities such as optimization of stores. The Company now plans to reduce its presence by up to 300 Boots stores in the UK and up to 200 stores in the U.S. by the end of fiscal 2024, which are incremental to the fiscal 2022 previously planned reductions of approximately 350 Boots stores in the UK and approximately 450 to 500 stores in the U.S. As of August 31, 2023, the Company has closed 291 and 466 stores in the UK and U.S., respectively.

In fiscal 2023, the Company increased its estimate of cumulative pre-tax charges to its GAAP financial results for the Transformational Cost Management Program from $3.6 billion to $3.9 billion to $4.1 billion to $4.4 billion. As a result, pre-tax charges for exit and disposal activities increased from $3.3 billion to $3.6 billion to $3.8 billion to $4.1 billion. In addition to the impacts discussed above, as a result of the actions related to store closures taken under the Transformational Cost Management Program, the Company recorded $508 million of transition adjustments to decrease retained earnings due to the adoption of the new lease accounting standard (Topic 842) that became effective on September 1, 2019.

From the inception of the Transformational Cost Management Program to August 31, 2023, the Company has recognized cumulative pre-tax charges to its financial results in accordance with GAAP of $3.1 billion, which were primarily recorded within Selling, general and administrative expenses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. These charges included $1.1 billion related to lease obligations and other real estate costs, $883 million in asset impairments, $873 million in employee severance and business transition costs and $253 million of information technology transformation and other exit costs.

Costs related to exit and disposal activities under the Transformational Cost Management Program for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, were as follows (in millions):


Fiscal 2023	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Corporate and Other		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
Lease obligations and other real estate costs	$	492	$	23	$	—	$	1	$	516
Asset impairments	183		149		109		—		441
Employee severance and business transition costs	111		20		6		13		150
Information technology transformation and other exit costs	30		21		—		—		51
Total pre-tax exit and disposal charges	$	816	$	213	$	115	$	14	$	1,158


Fiscal 2022	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Corporate and Other		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
Lease obligations and other real estate costs	$	247	$	2	$	—	$	—	$	249
Asset impairments	132		58		—		—		190
Employee severance and business transition costs	156		29		—		25		210
Information technology transformation and other exit costs	12		29		—		—		40
Total pre-tax exit and disposal charges	$	546	$	118	$	—	$	25	$	690


Fiscal 2021	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Corporate and Other		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
Lease obligations and other real estate costs	$	103	$	6	$	—	$	—	$	108
Asset impairments	15		9		—		—		24
Employee severance and business transition costs	79		40		—		45		165
Information technology transformation and other exit costs	20		17		—		—		38
Total pre-tax exit and disposal charges	$	217	$	72	$	—	$	46	$	335

The changes in liabilities and assets related to the exit and disposal activities under Transformational Cost Management Program include the following (in millions):


	Lease obligations and other real estate costs		Asset impairments		Employee severance and business transition costs		Information technology transformation and other exit costs		Total
Balance at August 31, 2021	$	17	$	—	$	77	$	20	$	114
Costs	249		190		210		40		690
Payments	(99)		—		(201)		(23)		(323)
Other	(157)		(190)		(9)		(11)		(367)
Balance at August 31, 2022	$	10	$	—	$	76	$	27	$	113
Costs	516		441		150		51		1,158
Payments	(105)		—		(160)		(55)		(320)
Other	(411)		(441)		2		—		(849)
Balance at August 31, 2023	$	10	$	—	$	70	$	22	$	102

Other exit and disposal activities

In September 2023, VillageMD approved the exit from approximately five markets, including the closure of approximately 60 clinics in fiscal 2024.

Exit and disposal activities (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Restructuring costs and reserves

Costs related to exit and disposal activities under the Transformational Cost Management Program for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, were as follows (in millions):


Fiscal 2023	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Corporate and Other		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
Lease obligations and other real estate costs	$	492	$	23	$	—	$	1	$	516
Asset impairments	183		149		109		—		441
Employee severance and business transition costs	111		20		6		13		150
Information technology transformation and other exit costs	30		21		—		—		51
Total pre-tax exit and disposal charges	$	816	$	213	$	115	$	14	$	1,158


Fiscal 2022	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Corporate and Other		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
Lease obligations and other real estate costs	$	247	$	2	$	—	$	—	$	249
Asset impairments	132		58		—		—		190
Employee severance and business transition costs	156		29		—		25		210
Information technology transformation and other exit costs	12		29		—		—		40
Total pre-tax exit and disposal charges	$	546	$	118	$	—	$	25	$	690


Fiscal 2021	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Corporate and Other		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
Lease obligations and other real estate costs	$	103	$	6	$	—	$	—	$	108
Asset impairments	15		9		—		—		24
Employee severance and business transition costs	79		40		—		45		165
Information technology transformation and other exit costs	20		17		—		—		38
Total pre-tax exit and disposal charges	$	217	$	72	$	—	$	46	$	335

Schedule of restructuring reserve by type of cost

The changes in liabilities and assets related to the exit and disposal activities under Transformational Cost Management Program include the following (in millions):


	Lease obligations and other real estate costs		Asset impairments		Employee severance and business transition costs		Information technology transformation and other exit costs		Total
Balance at August 31, 2021	$	17	$	—	$	77	$	20	$	114
Costs	249		190		210		40		690
Payments	(99)		—		(201)		(23)		(323)
Other	(157)		(190)		(9)		(11)		(367)
Balance at August 31, 2022	$	10	$	—	$	76	$	27	$	113
Costs	516		441		150		51		1,158
Payments	(105)		—		(160)		(55)		(320)
Other	(411)		(441)		2		—		(849)
Balance at August 31, 2023	$	10	$	—	$	70	$	22	$	102

Retirement benefits

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Retirement Benefits [Abstract]

Retirement benefits

The Company sponsors several retirement plans, including defined benefit plans, defined contribution plans and a post-retirement health plan.

Defined benefit pension plans (non-U.S. plans)

The Company has various defined benefit pension plans outside the U.S. The principal defined benefit pension plan is the Boots Pension Plan (the “Boots Plan”), which covers certain employees in the UK. The Boots Plan is a funded final salary defined benefit plan providing pensions and death benefits to members. The Boots Plan was closed to future accrual effective July 1, 2010, with pensions calculated based on salaries up until that date. The Boots Plan is governed by a trustee board, which is independent of the Company. The plan is subject to a full funding actuarial valuation on a triennial basis. The investment strategy of the principal defined benefit pension plan is to hold the majority of its assets in a diverse portfolio ("Matching Portfolio") which aims to broadly match the characteristics of the plan’s liabilities by investing in bonds, derivatives and other fixed income assets, with the remainder invested in predominantly return-seeking assets. Interest rate and inflation rate swaps are also employed to complement the role of fixed and index-linked bond holdings in liability risk management.

The following tables present classes of defined benefit pension plan assets by fair value hierarchy (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Equity securities:
Equity securities 1	$	264	$	—	$	264	$	—

Debt securities:
Fixed interest government bonds 2	1,044		848		196		—
Index linked government bonds 2	1,364		1,364		—		—
Corporate bonds 3	1,214		—		1,214		—

Real estate:
Real estate 4	466		—		—		466

Other:
Other investments, net 5	1,242		142		338		761

Total	$	5,594	$	2,354	$	2,012	$	1,228


	August 31, 2022		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Equity securities:
Equity securities 1	$	967	$	—	$	967	$	—

Debt securities:
Fixed interest government bonds 2	688		402		285		—
Index linked government bonds 2	1,785		1,785		—		—
Corporate bonds 3	1,980		—		1,980		—

Real estate:
Real estate 4	548		—		—		548

Other:
Other investments, net 5	636		10		(87)		713

Total	$	6,603	$	2,197	$	3,145	$	1,261

1Includes investments in commingled funds, are valued based on quoted prices and are primarily exchange-traded. Securities for which official close or last trade pricing on an active exchange is available are classified as Level 1 investments. If closing prices are not available, or the investments are in a commingled fund, securities are valued at the last quoted bid price and typically are categorized as Level 2 investments.

2Includes government bonds comprising fixed interest and index linked bonds issued by central governments and are valued based on quotes received from independent pricing services or from dealers who make markets in such securities. Pricing services utilize pricing which considers readily available inputs such as the yield or price of bonds of comparable quality, coupon, maturity and type, as well as dealer-supplied prices.

3Includes bonds issued by corporations in both segregated and commingled funds

and are valued using recently executed transactions, or quoted market prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, or for identical assets and liabilities in markets that are not active. If there have been no market transactions in a particular fixed income security, its fair value is calculated by pricing models that benchmark the security against other securities with actual market prices.

4Includes investments in certain property funds which are valued based on the underlying properties. These properties are valued using a number of standard industry techniques such as cost, discounted cash flows, independent appraisals and market based comparable data. Real estate investments are categorized as Level 3 investments. Changes in Level 3 investments during fiscal 2023 were driven by actual return on plan assets still held at August 31, 2023 and purchases during the year.

5Includes net receivable (payable) amounts for unsettled transactions, cash and cash equivalents, derivatives, insurance linked securities and direct private placements. Cash is categorized as a Level 1 investment and cash in commingled funds is categorized as a Level 2 investment. Amounts receivable (payable) are categorized as level 2 investments. Cash equivalents are valued using observable yield curves, discounting and interest rates and are categorized as Level 2 investments. Derivatives which are exchange-traded and for which market quotations are readily available are valued at the last reported sale price or official closing price as reported by an independent pricing service on the primary market, or exchange on which they are traded, and are categorized as Level 1 investments. Over-the-counter derivatives typically are valued by independent pricing services and are categorized as Level 2 investments. Insurance linked securities are categorized as Level 2. Direct private placements are typically bonds valued by reference to comparable bonds and are categorized as Level 3 investments. Changes in Level 3 investments during fiscal 2023 were primarily driven by purchases during the year.

Components of net periodic pension costs for the defined benefit pension plans and cumulative pre-tax amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows (in millions):


	Boots and other pension plans
	2023		2022		2021
Service costs (Selling, general and administrative expenses)	$	4	$	5	$	6
Interest costs (Other income, net)	264		149		139
Expected returns on plan assets/other (Other income, net)	(340)		(280)		(332)
Total net periodic pension income	$	(72)	$	(126)	$	(188)

Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	730	$	(251)	$	(506)
Prior service cost	(1)		(1)		(1)
Total pre-tax comprehensive loss (income)	$	729	$	(252)	$	(507)

Change in benefit obligations for the defined benefit pension plans (in millions):


	2023		2022
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	5,967	$	10,206
Service costs	4		5
Interest costs	264		149

Net actuarial gain	(897)		(3,042)
Benefits paid	(286)		(304)
Currency translation adjustments	463		(1,047)
Benefit obligation at end of year	$	5,515	$	5,967

Change in plan assets for the defined benefit pension plans (in millions):


	2023		2022
Plan assets at fair value at beginning of year	$	6,603	$	10,475
Employer contributions	40		45
Benefits paid	(286)		(304)
Return on assets	(1,275)		(2,477)
Currency translation adjustments	511		(1,136)
Plan assets at fair value at end of year	$	5,594	$	6,603

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Other non-current assets	$	306	$	863
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	(10)		(9)
Other non-current liabilities	(216)		(217)
Net asset recognized at end of year	$	80	$	637

The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for all pension plans, including accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, were as follows (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Projected benefit obligation	$	5,515	$	5,967
Accumulated benefit obligation	5,503		5,961
Fair value of plan assets 1	5,594		6,603

1 Represents plan assets of The Boots plan, the Company's only funded defined benefit pension plan.

Estimated future benefit payments for the next 10 years from defined benefit pension plans to participants are as follows (in millions):


	Estimated future benefit payments
2024	$	324
2025	305
2026	317
2027	326
2028	337
2029-2033	1,798

The assumptions used in accounting for the defined benefit pension plans were as follows:


	2023		2022
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	5.22	%	4.20	%
Rate of compensation increase	3.73	%	3.04	%

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate	4.20	%	1.57	%
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.90	%	2.90	%
Rate of compensation increase	3.04	%	2.80	%

In determining long-term rate of return on plan assets assumption, the Company considers both the historical performance of the investment portfolio as well as the long-term market return expectations based on the investment mix of the portfolio. A change in any of these assumptions would have an effect on its pension expense. A 25 basis point increase in the discount rate would result in a decline of $159 million to the Company’s pension benefit obligation. A 25 basis point decrease on the expected return on plan assets assumption would decrease the Company’s pension income by $14 million.

Based on current actuarial estimates, the Company plans to make contributions of $18 million to its defined benefit pension plans in fiscal 2024 and expects to make contributions beyond 2024, which will vary based upon many factors, including the performance of the defined benefit pension plan assets.

Defined contribution plans

The principal retirement plan for U.S. employees is the Walgreen Profit-Sharing Retirement Trust, to which both the Company and participating employees contribute. The Company’s contribution is in the form of a guaranteed match which is made pursuant to the applicable plan document approved by the Walgreen Co. Board of Directors. Plan activity is reviewed periodically by certain Committees of the Walgreens Boots Alliance Board of Directors. The profit-sharing provision is an expense of $239 million, $234 million and $221 million in fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. The Company’s contributions were $241 million, $236 million and $222 million in fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The Company also has certain contract based defined contribution arrangements. The principal one is UK based to which both the Company and participating employees contribute. The cost recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings was $83 million, $90 million and $101 million in fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Post-retirement healthcare plan

The Company provides certain health insurance benefits to retired U.S. employees who meet eligibility requirements, including age, years of service and date of hire. The costs of these benefits are accrued over the service life of the employee.

The Company’s post-retirement health benefit plan obligation was $113 million and $122 million in fiscal 2023 and 2022, respectively and is not funded. The Company expects to make contributions of $8 million in fiscal 2024.

Income taxes - narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
Income taxes - narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Effective income tax rate	34.30%	(0.80%)	33.40%
Deferred tax assets, tax attributes	$ 7,784	$ 7,825
Income tax credits	158
Deferred tax assets operating loss carryforwards subject to expiration	6,900
Deferred tax assets operating loss carryforwards not subject to expiration	832
Valuation allowance	7,360	7,521
Income taxes paid	64	387	$ 336
Unrecognized tax benefits	1,106	1,110	1,098	$ 494
Unrecognized tax benefits reported against deferred taxes	413	473
Unrecognized tax benefits reported against tax receivables	116	116
Unrecognized tax benefits would favorably impact the effective tax rate if recognized	588	529	524
Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits is reasonably possible	257
Accrued interest and penalties in income tax provision	125	97
Interest and penalties included in income tax expense	29	13	26
Unrecorded deferred tax liability for temporary differences related to foreign subsidiaries	9	104	118
Tax cuts and jobs act, measurement period adjustment, income tax expense (benefit)			(247)
Long-term liabilities
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Unrecognized tax benefits	703	$ 618
U.S. Federal
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets, operating loss carryforwards	1,800
State
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets, operating loss carryforwards	465
Non-U.S.
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Deferred tax assets, operating loss carryforwards	$ 28,700
United Kingdom
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax expense recorded from re-measurement of foreign deferred tax liabilities from changes in tax laws			$ 344

Exit and disposal activities - narrative (Details) $ in Millions			1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 12, 2021 USD ($) store	Dec. 20, 2018 USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2023 market clinic	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($) store	Aug. 31, 2022 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2021 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Sep. 01, 2019 USD ($)
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative effect adjustment to decrease retained earnings				$ (28,322)	$ (29,366)	$ (23,822)	$ (21,136)
Adoption of new accounting standards
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative effect adjustment to decrease retained earnings							6
Retained earnings
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative effect adjustment to decrease retained earnings				(33,058)	(37,801)	(35,121)	(34,210)
Retained earnings \| Adoption of new accounting standards
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative effect adjustment to decrease retained earnings							$ 3
Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected annual cost savings of restructuring plan				4,500	3,500
Costs incurred				3,100
Restructuring costs				$ 1,158	690	335
Transformational cost management program \| Subsequent event
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of clinics closed \| clinic			60
Number of markets exited \| market			5
Transformational cost management program \| United Kingdom
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of stores expected to close \| store	350			300
Number of stores closed \| store				291
Transformational cost management program \| United States
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of stores expected to close \| store				200
Number of stores closed \| store				466
Transformational cost management program \| Retained earnings \| Adoption of new accounting standards
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Cumulative effect adjustment to decrease retained earnings								$ 508
Lease obligations and other real estate costs \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Costs incurred				$ 1,100
Restructuring costs				516	249	108
Asset impairments \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Costs incurred				883
Restructuring costs				441	190	24
Employee severance and business transition costs \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Costs incurred				873
Restructuring costs				150	210	165
Information technology transformation and other exit costs \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Costs incurred				253
Restructuring costs				51	40	$ 38
Minimum \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected annual cost savings of restructuring plan	$ 3,300	$ 2,000
Expected restructuring costs				4,100	3,600
Minimum \| Transformational cost management program \| United States
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of stores expected to close \| store	450
Minimum \| Exit and disposal costs \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected restructuring costs				3,800	3,300
Maximum \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected annual cost savings of restructuring plan					3,500
Expected restructuring costs				4,400	3,900
Maximum \| Transformational cost management program \| United States
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Number of stores expected to close \| store	500
Maximum \| Exit and disposal costs \| Transformational cost management program
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Expected restructuring costs				$ 4,100	$ 3,600

Equity method investments - carrying value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Carrying value	$ 3,497	$ 5,495
Cencora
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Carrying value	$ 2,534	$ 3,916
Ownership percentage	16.00%	25.00%
Others
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Carrying value	$ 963	$ 1,579
Others \| Minimum
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	8.00%	8.00%
Others \| Maximum
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership percentage	50.00%	50.00%

Fair value measurements

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair value measurements

Fair value measurementsThe Company measures certain assets and liabilities in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, which defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. In addition, it establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes observable and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value into three broad Levels:

Level 1 -Quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical assets and liabilities. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to Level 1 inputs.

Level 2 -Observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets.

Level 3 -Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data available. The fair value hierarchy gives the lowest priority to Level 3 inputs.

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Money market funds 1	$	11	$	11	$	—	$	—
Cross currency interest rate swaps 2	28		—		28		—
Foreign currency forwards 3	6		—		6		—
Investments in equity securities 4	17		17		—		—
Investment in debt securities 5	15		—		15		—
Total return swaps	1		—		1		—
Liabilities:
Variable prepaid forward 6	$	2,548	$	—	$	—	$	2,548
Foreign currency forwards 3	5		—		5		—
Total return swaps	1		—		1		—
Cross currency interest rate swaps 2	2		—		2		—


	August 31, 2022		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Money market funds 1	$	1,114	$	1,114	$	—	$	—
Investments in debt securities 5	130		—		130		—
Foreign currency forwards 3	69		—		69		—

Investments in equity securities 4	1		1		—		—
Cross currency interest rate swaps 2	96		—		96		—
Liabilities:
Total return swaps	$	6	$	—	$	6	$	—
Foreign currency forwards 3	7		—		7		—

1.Money market funds are valued at the closing price reported by the fund sponsor and classified as marketable securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

2.The fair value of cross currency interest rate swaps is calculated by discounting the estimated future cash flows based on the applicable observable yield curves. See Note 9. Financial instruments, for further information.

3.The fair value of forward currency contracts is estimated by discounting the difference between the contractual forward price and the current available forward price for the residual maturity of the contract using observable market rates. See Note 9. Financial instruments, for further information.

4.Fair values of quoted investments are based on current bid prices as of August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022.

5.Includes investments in Treasury debt securities.

6.The fair value of the derivative was derived from a Black-Scholes valuation. The inputs used in valuing the derivative included observable inputs such as the floor and cap prices of the VPF, dividend yield of Cencora shares, risk free interest rate, and contractual term of the instrument, as well as unobservable inputs such as implied volatility of Cencora shares (ranging from 23.2% - 24.7% for the lower strike and 18.1% - 19.1% for the upper strike). See Note 9. Financial instruments, for further information.

There were no transfers between Levels in fiscal 2023 or 2022.

The roll forward of the fair value of the VPF derivatives associated with the forward sale of shares of Cencora common stock, classified as Level 3, for fiscal 2023 is as follows (in millions):


	2023
Opening balance	$	—
VPF derivative additions	(2,568)
Unrealized gains recorded in Other income, net	19
Ending balance	$	(2,548)

The carrying value of the Company's credit facilities approximated their respective fair values due to their short-term nature.

The Company reports its debt instruments under the guidance of ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments, which requires disclosure of the fair value of the Company’s debt in the footnotes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. As of August 31, 2023, the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of long term notes outstanding including the current portion were $7.7 billion and $6.8 billion, respectively.

The fair values of the notes outstanding are Level 1 fair value measures and determined based on quoted market price and translated at the August 31, 2023 rate, as applicable. The fair values and carrying values of these issuances do not include notes that have been redeemed or repaid as of August 31, 2023. See Note. 8 Debt, for further information. The carrying values of accounts receivable and trade accounts payable approximate their respective fair values due to their short-term nature.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information.

+ References + Details

Retirement benefits - balance sheet (Details) - Pension Plan - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other non-current assets	$ 306	$ 863
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	(10)	(9)
Other non-current liabilities	(216)	(217)
Net asset recognized at end of year	$ 80	$ 637

- Definition

Amount of asset, recognized in statement of financial position, for overfunded defined benefit pension and other postretirement plans.

+ References + Details

Supplementary financial information - summary of quarterly results (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	May 31, 2023	Feb. 28, 2023	Nov. 30, 2022	Aug. 31, 2022	May 31, 2022	Feb. 28, 2022	Nov. 30, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Supplementary Financial Information [Abstract]
Sales	$ 35,422	$ 35,415	$ 34,862	$ 33,382	$ 32,449	$ 32,597	$ 33,756	$ 33,901	$ 139,081	$ 132,703	$ 132,509
Gross profit	6,475	6,588	7,055	6,953	6,410	6,572	7,708	7,574	27,072	28,265	28,067
Net (loss) earnings attributable to Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.:
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent, Total	$ (180)	$ 118	$ 703	$ (3,721)	$ (415)	$ 289	$ 883	$ 3,580	$ (3,080)	$ 4,337	$ 2,542
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Total (in dollars per share)	$ (0.21)	$ 0.14	$ 0.81	$ (4.31)	$ (0.48)	$ 0.33	$ 1.02	$ 4.13	$ (3.57)	$ 5.02	$ 2.94
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
Total (in dollars per share)	(0.21)	0.14	0.81	(4.31)	(0.48)	0.33	1.02	4.13	(3.57)	5.01	$ 2.93
Cash dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.4800	$ 0.4800	$ 0.4800	$ 0.4800	$ 0.4800	$ 0.4775	$ 0.4775	$ 0.4775	$ 1.9200	$ 1.9125

Leases (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Leases [Abstract]

Schedule of supplemental balance sheet information

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows (in millions):


Balance sheet supplemental information:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Operating leases:
Operating lease right-of-use assets	$	21,667	$	21,259

Operating lease obligations - current	$	2,347	$	2,286
Operating lease obligations - non-current	22,124		21,517
Total operating lease obligations	$	24,472	$	23,803
Finance leases:
Right-of-use assets included in:
Property, plant and equipment, net	$	678	$	645
Lease obligations included in:
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	57	$	37
Other non-current liabilities	919		899
Total finance lease obligations	$	976	$	936

Schedule of supplemental income statement and other information

Supplemental income statement information related to leases was as follows (in millions):


Statement of earnings supplemental information:	2023		2022		2021
Operating lease cost
Fixed	$	3,404	$	3,240	$	3,219
Variable 1	850		825		664
Finance lease cost
Amortization	$	47	$	44	$	45
Interest	51		50		52

Sublease income 2	$	115	$	105	$	84
Impairment of right-of-use assets	495		218		86


Gains on sale-leaseback transactions 2
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	747	$	558	$	367
International 3	178		61		—
Total gain on sale-leaseback 2	$	925	$	619	$	367

1Includes real estate property taxes, common area maintenance, insurance and rental payments based on sales volume.

2Recorded within Selling, general and administrative expenses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

3Includes gain on sale-leaseback related to Germany wholesale business of $178 million for fiscal 2023, and $61 million for Boots UK for fiscal 2022. The gain for fiscal 2023 includes $47 million related to the optimization of the Germany warehouse locations as part of acquisition integration activities.

Other supplemental information was as follows (in millions):


Other supplemental information:	2023		2022		2021
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease obligations
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$	3,579	$	3,351	$	3,414
Operating cash flows from finance leases	47		47		48
Financing cash flows from finance leases	52		43		42
Total	$	3,679	$	3,441	$	3,503

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations
Operating leases	$	2,323	$	2,078	$	2,765
Finance leases	30		11		—
Total	$	2,352	$	2,089	$	2,765

Weighted average lease term and discount rate for real estate leases as of August 31, 2023 were as follows:


Weighted average lease terms and discount rates:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Weighted average remaining lease term in years
Operating leases	9.6		10.0
Finance leases	17.4		19.0

Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases	5.35	%	4.83	%
Finance leases	5.25	%	5.19	%

Schedule of future lease payments under operating leases

The aggregate future lease payments for operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2023 are as follows (in millions):


Future lease payments (fiscal years):	Finance lease		Operating lease 1,2

2024	$	109	$	3,672
2025	104		3,589
2026	101		3,508
2027	99		3,417
2028	90		3,267
Later	967		14,508
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments	$	1,470	$	31,960
Less: Present value discount	495		7,488
Lease liability	$	976	$	24,472

1.Total undiscounted minimum lease payments include approximately $3.7 billion of payments related to optional renewal periods that have not been contractually exercised, but are reasonably certain of being exercised.

2.Total undiscounted minimum lease payments exclude sublease rental income of approximately $606 million due to the Company under non-cancelable sublease terms.

Schedule of future lease payments under finance leases

The aggregate future lease payments for operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2023 are as follows (in millions):


Future lease payments (fiscal years):	Finance lease		Operating lease 1,2

2024	$	109	$	3,672
2025	104		3,589
2026	101		3,508
2027	99		3,417
2028	90		3,267
Later	967		14,508
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments	$	1,470	$	31,960
Less: Present value discount	495		7,488
Lease liability	$	976	$	24,472

2.Total undiscounted minimum lease payments exclude sublease rental income of approximately $606 million due to the Company under non-cancelable sublease terms.

Retirement benefits - accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets (Details) - Pension Plan - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Projected benefit obligation	$ 5,515	$ 5,967
Accumulated benefit obligation	5,503	5,961
Fair value of plan assets	$ 5,594	$ 6,603

Audit Information	12 Months Ended
Audit Information	Aug. 31, 2023
Audit Information [Abstract]
Auditor Location	Chicago, Illinois
Auditor Name	DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Auditor Firm ID	34

Segment reporting - geographic data (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	May 31, 2023	Feb. 28, 2023	Nov. 30, 2022	Aug. 31, 2022	May 31, 2022	Feb. 28, 2022	Nov. 30, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Sales	$ 35,422	$ 35,415	$ 34,862	$ 33,382	$ 32,449	$ 32,597	$ 33,756	$ 33,901	$ 139,081	$ 132,703	$ 132,509
Total long-lived assets	33,254				32,988				33,254	32,988
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Sales									116,883	110,873	112,005
Total long-lived assets	28,951				28,710				28,951	28,710
United Kingdom
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Sales									8,984	8,894	8,298
Total long-lived assets	3,622				3,663				3,622	3,663
Germany
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Sales									11,211	11,178	10,472
Other
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Sales									2,003	1,757	$ 1,734
Total long-lived assets	$ 681				$ 614				$ 681	$ 614

- Definition

Amount, excluding tax collected from customer, of revenue from satisfaction of performance obligation by transferring promised good or service to customer. Tax collected from customer is tax assessed by governmental authority that is both imposed on and concurrent with specific revenue-producing transaction, including, but not limited to, sales, use, value added and excise.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 924
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SAB Topic 11.L)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479941/924-10-S99-1

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-5

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 30
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-30

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 42
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-42

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 22
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 40
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-40

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 22
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 41
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-41

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 4
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-4

+ Details

Leases - supplemental balance sheet information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Operating leases:
Operating lease right-of-use assets	$ 21,667	$ 21,259
Operating lease obligations - current	2,347	2,286
Operating lease obligations - non-current	22,124	21,517
Total operating lease obligations	24,472	23,803
Finance leases:
Property, plant and equipment, net	678	645
Lease obligations included in:
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	57	37
Other non-current liabilities	919	899
Total finance lease obligations	$ 976	$ 936
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization	Property, Plant, and Equipment and Finance Lease Right-of-Use Asset, after Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization
Finance Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	Accrued expenses and other liabilities	Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	Other non-current liabilities	Other non-current liabilities

Income taxes - provision for income taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Current provision
Federal	$ 242	$ 39	$ 79
State	(13)	37	115
Non–U.S.	283	260	234
Total current provisions for income taxes	512	336	428
Deferred provision
Federal	(1,886)	(78)	(10)
State	(364)	(20)	(46)
Non–U.S. – tax law change	0	0	344
Non–U.S. – excluding tax law change	(120)	(268)	(49)
Total non-current provisions for income taxes	(2,370)	(366)	239
Income tax (benefit) provision	$ (1,858)	$ (30)	$ 667

Retirement benefits - changes in benefit obligations (Details) - Pension Plan - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Change in benefit obligation [Roll Forward]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$ 5,967	$ 10,206
Service costs	4	5	$ 6
Interest costs	264	149	139
Net actuarial gain	(897)	(3,042)
Benefits paid	(286)	(304)
Currency translation adjustments	463	(1,047)
Benefit obligation at end of year	$ 5,515	$ 5,967	$ 10,206

Supplemental information - schedule of redeemable non-controlling interest (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 1,042	$ 319	$ 0
Recognition upon acquisition of subsidiary	0	2,684	309
Acquisitions of non-controlling interests	0	(2,047)	0
Net loss attributable to Redeemable non-controlling interests	(21)	(73)	(3)
Redemption price adjustments	442	179	19
Reclassifications to accrued expenses and other liabilities	(1,314)	0	0
Other	18	(20)	(6)
Ending balance	167	1,042	319
Conversion of Stock [Line Items]
Recognition upon acquisition of subsidiary	$ 0	2,684	$ 309
VillageMD
Increase (Decrease) in Temporary Equity [Roll Forward]
Recognition upon acquisition of subsidiary		1,900
Conversion of Stock [Line Items]
Recognition upon acquisition of subsidiary		$ 1,900
McKesson Corporation, GEHE Pharma Handel
Conversion of Stock [Line Items]
Outstanding equity interest percentage		30.00%

Related parties

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Related parties

The Company has a long-term pharmaceutical distribution agreement with Cencora pursuant to which the Company sources branded and generic pharmaceutical products from Cencora. Additionally, Cencora receives sourcing services for generic pharmaceutical products.

Related party transactions with Cencora (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Purchases, net	$	65,173	$	62,174	$	62,513

Trade accounts payable, net of receivables	$	7,814	$	6,915	$	6,589

See Note 2. Discontinued operations for further information.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for related party transactions. Examples of related party transactions include transactions between (a) a parent company and its subsidiary; (b) subsidiaries of a common parent; (c) and entity and its principal owners; and (d) affiliates.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480990/946-20-50-2

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 5
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480990/946-20-50-5

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480990/946-20-50-6

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 235
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (c)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481062/946-235-50-2

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 235
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (e)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481062/946-235-50-2

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 850
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (d)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483326/850-10-50-1

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 220
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.6-07(2)(g)(3))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483575/946-220-S99-1

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 220
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.6-07(2)(c))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483575/946-220-S99-1

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 946
-SubTopic 220
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.6-07(2)(e))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483575/946-220-S99-1

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 850
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//850/tableOfContent

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 850
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 6
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483326/850-10-50-6

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 850
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483326/850-10-50-1

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 850
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483326/850-10-50-1

+ Details

Retirement benefits - components of net periodic pension costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Interest Cost, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration]	Other income, net	Other income, net	Other income, net
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit (Cost) Credit, Expected Return (Loss), Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration]	Other income, net	Other income, net	Other income, net
Pension Plan
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]
Service costs (Selling, general and administrative expenses)	$ 4	$ 5	$ 6
Interest costs (Other income, net)	264	149	139
Expected returns on plan assets/other (Other income, net)	(340)	(280)	(332)
Total net periodic pension income	$ (72)	$ (126)	$ (188)

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 728	$ 1,358
Marketable securities	11	1,114
Accounts receivable, net	5,381	5,017
Inventories	8,257	8,353
Other current assets	1,127	1,059
Total current assets	15,503	16,902
Non-current assets:
Property, plant and equipment, net	11,587	11,729
Operating lease right-of-use assets	21,667	21,259
Goodwill	28,187	22,280
Intangible assets, net	13,635	10,730
Equity method investments (see Note 6)	3,497	5,495
Other non-current assets	2,550	1,730
Total non-current assets	81,125	73,222
Total assets	96,628	90,124
Current liabilities:
Short-term debt	917	1,059
Trade accounts payable (see Note 19)	12,635	11,255
Operating lease obligations	2,347	2,286
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	8,426	7,899
Income taxes	209	84
Total current liabilities	24,535	22,583
Non-current liabilities:
Long-term debt	8,145	10,615
Operating lease obligations	22,124	21,517
Deferred income taxes	1,318	1,442
Accrued litigation obligations	6,261	551
Other non-current liabilities	5,757	3,009
Total non-current liabilities	43,605	37,134
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 11)
Total liabilities	68,140	59,717
Redeemable non-controlling interests	167	1,042
Equity:
Preferred stock $.01 par value; authorized 32 million shares, none issued	0	0
Common stock $.01 par value; authorized 3.2 billion shares; issued 1,172,513,618 at August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022	12	12
Paid-in capital	10,661	10,950
Retained earnings	33,058	37,801
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(2,993)	(2,805)
Treasury stock, at cost; 308,839,832 shares at August 31, 2023 and 307,874,161 shares at August 31, 2022	(20,717)	(20,683)
Total Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. shareholders’ equity	20,020	25,275
Non-controlling interests	8,302	4,091
Total equity	28,322	29,366
Total liabilities, redeemable non-controlling interests and equity	$ 96,628	$ 90,124

Equity method investments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]

Equity method investment

Equity method investments as of August 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows (in millions, except percentages):


	2023			2022
	Carrying value		Ownership percentage	Carrying value		Ownership percentage
Cencora	$	2,534	16%	$	3,916	25%
Others	963		8% - 50%	1,579		8% - 50%
Total	$	3,497		$	5,495

Summarized financial information of equity method investees

Summarized financial information for the Company’s equity method investments in aggregate is as follows:

Balance sheet (in millions)


	August 31,
	2023		2022
Current assets	$	48,185	$	50,985
Non-current assets	25,618		26,497
Current liabilities	52,093		52,083
Non-current liabilities	17,999		19,712
Shareholders’ equity 1	3,711		5,687

1Shareholders’ equity at August 31, 2023 and 2022 includes $520 million and $564 million, respectively, related to non-controlling interests.

Statements of earnings (in millions)



	2023		2022		2021
Sales	$	279,118	$	268,189	$	232,719
Gross profit	12,457		13,248		10,889
Net earnings (loss)	1,799		1,988		(3,475)
Share of earnings (loss) from equity method investments	286		468		(512)

Summary of major accounting policies

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Summary of major accounting policies

Organization

Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”), is an integrated healthcare, pharmacy and retail leader with a 170-year heritage of caring for customers and patients. Its operations are conducted through three reportable segments: U.S. Retail Pharmacy, International and U.S. Healthcare. See Note 17. Segment reporting and Note 18. Sales, for further information.

Basis of presentation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include all subsidiaries in which the Company holds a controlling interest and certain Variable Interest Entities (VIEs) for which the Company is the primary beneficiary. The Company uses the equity-method of accounting for equity investments in less than majority-owned companies if the investment provides the ability to exercise significant influence. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to use judgment in the application of accounting policies, including making estimates and assumptions. The Company bases its estimates on the information available at the time, its experiences and various other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Adjustments may be made in subsequent periods to reflect more current estimates and assumptions about matters that are inherently uncertain. Actual results may differ.

Adverse global macroeconomic conditions, the influence of certain holidays, seasonality, foreign currency rates, changes in vendor, payor and customer relationships and terms, strategic transactions including acquisitions, dispositions and changes in laws and regulations in the markets in which the Company operates and other factors on the Company’s operations and net earnings for any period may not be comparable to the same period in previous years.

On June 1, 2021, the Company completed the sale of the majority of the Company's Alliance Healthcare business as well as a portion of the Company’s retail pharmacy international businesses in Europe (“Disposal Group”) to Cencora, Inc. (“Cencora”), formerly known as AmerisourceBergen Corporation (“AmerisourceBergen”). The Disposal Group met the criteria to be reported as discontinued operations. Therefore, the operating results of the Disposal Group are reported as discontinued operations for fiscal 2021. Unless otherwise specified, disclosures in these Consolidated Financial Statements reflect continuing operations only. See Note 2. Discontinued operations, for further information.

Effective as of the first quarter of fiscal 2022, the Company is aligned into three reportable segments: U.S. Retail Pharmacy, International and U.S. Healthcare. In fiscal 2022, the Company changed the name of two reportable segments to better align with the Company’s business activities, structure and strategy. The “United States” segment was renamed to “U.S. Retail Pharmacy” and the “Walgreens Health” segment was renamed to “U.S. Healthcare”. The segment name changes did not result in any change to the composition of the segments and therefore no change to the historical results of segment operations. The information for these segments for all periods included in these consolidated financial statements has been presented using the new names. See Note 17. Segment reporting for further information.

Certain amounts in the Consolidated Financial Statements and associated notes may not add due to rounding. Percentages have been calculated using unrounded amounts for all periods presented. Certain prior period data, has been reclassified in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes to conform to the current period presentation.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, qualifying money market funds, and other highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less. Credit and debit card receivables, which generally settle within one to seven business days, of $122 million and $127 million were included in cash and cash equivalents at August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Restricted cash and other cash flows from operating activities

Restricted cash

The Company is required to maintain cash deposits with certain banks which consist of deposits restricted under contractual agreements and cash restricted by law and other obligations.

The following represents a reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents in the Consolidated Balance Sheets to total cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021 (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022		August 31, 2021
Cash and cash equivalents	$	728	$	1,358	$	559
Marketable securities	11		1,114		634
Cash and cash equivalents - assets held for sale (included in other current assets)	24		—		—
Restricted cash (included in other current and non-current assets)	93		86		77
Cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash	$	856	$	2,558	$	1,270

Other cash flows from operating activities

Other cash outflows from operating activities primarily include non-cash adjustments. For fiscal 2023, the adjustments of $157 million primarily include a gain of $83 million from the reclassification of Option Care Health from an equity method investment to an investment in equity securities at fair value. For fiscal 2022, the adjustments of $326 million primarily include impairment of equity method investments and investments in debt and equity securities of $233 million. For fiscal 2021, the adjustments of $218 million primarily include a gain on the sale of the Alliance Healthcare business of $322 million.

Accounts receivable

Accounts receivable are stated net of allowances for doubtful accounts. Accounts receivable balances primarily consist of trade receivables due from customers and amounts due from third-party payors (e.g., pharmacy benefit managers, insurance companies and governmental agencies). Trade receivables were $4.3 billion and $4.0 billion at August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Other accounts receivable balances, which consist primarily of receivables from vendors and manufacturers, including receivables from Cencora (see Note 19. Related parties), were $1.1 billion at August 31, 2023 and 2022.

Charges for the Company’s expected credit losses are recognized based upon all available information regarding the collectability of receivables, including historical information, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions over the short contractual life of the receivable. The allowance for expected credit losses for trade receivables at August 31, 2023 and 2022 were $110 million and $66 million, respectively.

Inventories

The Company values inventories on a lower of cost and net realizable value or market basis. Inventories include product costs, inbound freight, direct labor, warehousing costs for retail pharmacy operations, and distribution costs of products, and are reduced by vendor allowances not classified as a reduction of advertising expense.

The Company’s U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment inventory is accounted for using the last-in-first-out (“LIFO”) method. The total carrying value of the segment inventory accounted for under the LIFO method was $6.2 billion and $6.5 billion at August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. At August 31, 2023 and 2022, U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment inventory would have been greater by $3.6 billion and $3.4 billion, respectively, if it had been valued on a lower of first-in-first-out (“FIFO”) cost and net realizable value.

The Company’s International segment inventory is accounted for using average cost and the FIFO method. The total carrying value of the inventory for International segment was $2.0 billion and $1.8 billion at August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Major repairs, which extend the useful life of an asset, are capitalized; routine maintenance and repairs are charged against earnings. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of owned assets. Leasehold improvements, equipment under finance lease and finance lease properties are amortized over their respective estimated useful life or over the term of the lease, whichever is shorter. The majority of the Company’s fixtures and equipment is depreciated under the composite method of depreciation.

The following table summarizes the Company’s property, plant and equipment (in millions) and estimated useful lives (in years):


	Estimated useful life	2023		2022
Land and land improvements	20	$	1,778	$	2,333
Buildings and building improvements	3 to 50	6,683		6,996
Fixtures and equipment	3 to 20	9,782		9,375
Capitalized system development costs and software	3 to 10	3,821		3,087
Assets under construction		1,400		1,785
Finance lease properties		1,075		996
		$	24,540	$	24,572
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization		12,953		12,843
Balance at end of year		$	11,587	$	11,729

The Company capitalizes application development stage costs for internally developed software. Amortization expense for capitalized system development costs and software was $371 million, $307 million and $284 million in fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Unamortized costs were $1.5 billion and $1.1 billion at August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Depreciation and amortization expense for property, plant and equipment, including capitalized system development costs and software was $1.4 billion for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Leases

The Company leases certain retail stores, clinics, warehouses, distribution centers, office space, land and equipment. Initial terms for leased premises in the United States are typically 10 to 25 years, followed by additional terms containing renewal options at five-year intervals, and may include rent escalation clauses. Non-U.S. leases are typically for shorter terms and may include cancellation clauses or renewal options.

The lease term of real estate leases includes renewal options that are reasonably certain of being exercised. Options to extend are considered reasonably certain of being exercised based on evaluation if there are significant investments within the leased property which have useful lives greater than the non-cancelable lease term, performance of the underlying store and the Company’s economic and strategic initiatives. Short-term leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheets.

The Company determines if an arrangement contains a lease at the inception of a contract. The lease classification is determined at the commencement date. Right-of-use assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Company’s obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease during the lease term. Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of the remaining future minimum lease payments during the lease term. Lease commencement is the date the Company has the right to control the property. The Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate to discount the lease payments. The incremental borrowing rate is based on the Company's estimated rate of interest for a collateralized borrowing over a similar term as the lease term. The operating lease right-of-use assets also include lease payments made before commencement, lease incentives and are recorded net of impairment. Operating leases are expensed on a straight line basis over the lease term.

The Company accounts for lease components and non-lease components as a single lease component. Variable lease payment amounts that cannot be determined at the commencement of the lease such as increases in lease payments based on changes in index rates or usage, are not included in the right-of-use assets or lease liabilities. These are expensed as incurred. The Company has real estate leases which require additional payments based on sales volume, as well as reimbursement for real estate taxes, common area maintenance and insurance, which are expensed as incurred as variable lease costs and hence are not included in the lease payments used to calculate lease liability. Other real estate leases contain one fixed lease payment that includes real estate taxes, common area maintenance and insurance. These fixed payments are considered part of the lease payment and included in the right-of-use assets and lease liabilities. The Company does not separately account for the land portion of the leases involving land and building.

Finance leases are recognized within property, plant and equipment and as a finance lease liability within accrued expenses and other liabilities and other non-current liabilities.

See Note 5. Leases, for further information.

Business combinations

The Company allocates the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible and intangible assets purchased and the liabilities assumed on the basis of their fair values at the date of acquisition. The determination of fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires estimates and the use of valuation techniques when a market value is not readily available. Any excess of purchase price over the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired is allocated to goodwill. If the Company obtains new information about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date during the measurement period, which may be up to one year from the acquisition date, the Company may record adjustments to fair value of the purchase consideration and the allocation of purchase consideration to all tangible and intangible assets acquired and identified and liabilities assumed.

Variable interest entities

The Company consolidates certain subsidiaries of Village Practice Management Company Holdings, LLC through its principal subsidiary Village Practice Management Company, LLC (“VillageMD”) which are clinical entities and managed services organizations (collectively, the “Entities”) where VillageMD has a controlling financial interest. The Entities were established to employ healthcare providers, contract with payors, or to deliver healthcare services to patients and are designed to comply with certain regulatory and legal requirements.

The Company generally has no equity interests in the Entities. The Entities are variable interest entities because there is insufficient equity at-risk in the Entities to finance their operations without additional financial support and the equity holders of the Entities generally lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest. The Company's service agreements (“SAs”) are variable interests in the Entities because they transfer substantially all the residual risks and rewards of ownership in the Entities to the Company.

The Company has the power to direct the activities of the Entities that most significantly impact their economic performance through the SAs. The activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the Entities pertain to establishing the scope of services provided, fees charged for clinical services, negotiation and execution of contracts and managing policies and procedures related to management of the Company’s patient population.

The SAs generally provide the Company with rights to substantially all the earnings of the Entities and obligate the Company to fund losses of the Entities. As a result, the Company is the primary beneficiary of the Entities and consolidates the Entities. The assets and liabilities of the Entities and the Entities’ results of operations are presented in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

The Entities’ revenues consist of amounts recognized for services provided to patients. Cost of sales and Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of provider compensation expenses as well as clinical operating and support costs. The Company is also exposed to the risk of loss from certain Entities’ involvement with risk-based arrangements.

There are generally no restrictions on the Entities' assets or on the settlement of its liabilities. The assets of the Entities can be used to settle obligations of the Company and creditors of Entities have recourse to the general credit of the Company.

The following table summarizes the Entities' assets and liabilities (in millions) as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Total assets	$	881	$	313
Total liabilities	486		142

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations. Goodwill is assigned to reporting units. Reporting units are aggregated and deemed a single reporting unit if the components have similar economic characteristics. Acquired intangible assets are recorded at fair value.

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are evaluated for impairment annually during the fourth quarter, or more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that could more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit or intangible asset below its carrying value. As part of the Company’s impairment analysis, fair value of a reporting unit is generally determined using the income and market approaches. The income approach requires management to estimate a number of factors for each reporting unit, including projected future operating results, economic projections, anticipated future cash flows and discount rates. The market approach estimates fair value using comparable marketplace fair value data from within a comparable industry grouping, as well as recent guideline transactions. The determination of the fair value of the reporting units requires the Company to make significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the business and financial performance of the Company's reporting units. These estimates and assumptions primarily include, but are not limited to the selection of appropriate peer group companies, control premiums appropriate for acquisitions in the industries in which we compete, discount rates, terminal growth rates, forecasts of revenue, operating income, depreciation, amortization, working capital requirements and capital expenditures.

The Company also compares the sum of estimated fair values of reporting units to the Company’s fair value as implied by the market value of its equity securities. This comparison provides an indication that, in total, assumptions and estimates are reasonable. Future declines in the overall market value of the Company’s equity securities may provide an indication that the fair value of one or more reporting units has declined below its carrying value.

Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of the asset to its carrying value. If the carrying value of the asset exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment loss is recognized and the asset is written down to its estimated fair value. Indefinite-lived intangible assets fair values are estimated using the relief from royalty method and multi-period excess earnings method of the income approach. The determination of the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangibles requires the Company to make significant estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions primarily include, but are not limited to forecasts of revenues and expenses, the selection of appropriate royalty rate and discount rates.

See Note 7. Goodwill and other intangible assets, for additional disclosure regarding the Company’s intangible assets.

Equity method investments

The Company uses the equity method of accounting for equity investments if the investment provides the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over operating and financial policies of the investee. The Company’s proportionate share of the net income or loss of these investees is included in consolidated net earnings. Judgment regarding the level of influence over each equity method investment includes considering key factors such as the Company’s ownership interest, legal form of the investee (e.g. limited liability partnership), representation on the board of directors, participation in policy-making decisions and material intra-entity transactions.

The Company evaluates equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the investment might not be recoverable. Factors considered by the Company when reviewing an equity method investment for impairment include the length of time (duration) and the extent (severity) to which the fair value of the equity method investment has been less than cost, the investee’s financial condition and near-term prospects, and the intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for anticipated recovery. An impairment that is other-than-temporary is recognized in the period identified.

See Note 6. Equity method investments, for further information.

Financial instruments

The Company uses derivative instruments to hedge its exposure to market risks, including interest rate and currency risks, arising from operating and financing risks. In accordance with its risk management policies, the Company does not hold or issue derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Derivatives are recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at their fair values. When the Company becomes a party to a derivative instrument and intends to apply hedge accounting, it formally documents the hedge relationship and the risk management objective for undertaking the hedge which includes designating the instrument for financial reporting purposes as a fair value hedge, a cash flow hedge, or a net investment hedge. The accounting for changes in fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether the Company had designated it in a qualifying hedging relationship and on the type of hedging relationship. The Company applies the following accounting policies:

•Changes in the fair value of a derivative designated as a fair value hedge, along with the gain or loss on the hedged asset or liability attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings in the same line item, generally interest expense, net.

•Changes in the fair value of a derivative designated as a cash flow hedge are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income and reclassified into earnings in the period or periods during which the hedged item affects earnings and is presented in the same line item as the earnings effect of the hedged item.

•Changes in the fair value of a derivative designated as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation are recorded in cumulative translation adjustments within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Recognition in earnings of amounts previously recorded in cumulative translation adjustments is limited to circumstances such as complete or substantially complete liquidation of the net investment in the hedged investments in foreign operations.

•Changes in the fair value of a derivative not designated in a hedging relationship are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Cash receipts or payments on a settlement of a derivative contract are reported in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows consistent with the nature of the underlying hedged item.

For derivative instruments designated as hedges, the Company assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items. Highly effective means that cumulative changes in the fair value of the derivative are between 80% and 125% of the cumulative changes in the fair value of the hedged item. In addition, when the Company determines that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge, hedge accounting is discontinued. When it is probable that a hedged forecasted transaction will not occur, the Company discontinues hedge accounting for the affected portion of the forecasted transaction and reclassifies any gains or losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to earnings in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings. When a derivative in a hedge relationship is terminated or the hedged item is sold, extinguished or terminated, hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively.

Pension and post-retirement benefits

The Company has various defined benefit pension plans that cover some of its non-U.S. employees. The Company also has a post-retirement healthcare plan that covers qualifying U.S. employees. Eligibility and the level of benefits for these plans vary depending on participants’ status, date of hire and or length of service. Pension and post-retirement healthcare plan expenses and valuations are dependent on assumptions used by third-party actuaries in calculating those amounts. These assumptions include discount rates, healthcare cost trends, long-term return on plan assets, retirement rates, mortality rates and other factors.

The Company funds its pension plans in accordance with applicable regulations. The Company records the service cost component of net pension cost and net post-retirement healthcare benefit cost in Selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings. The Company records all other net cost components of net pension cost and net post-retirement benefit cost in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings. The post-retirement healthcare plan is not funded.

See Note 14. Retirement benefits, for further information.

Redeemable non-controlling interests

The Company presents non-controlling interests in temporary equity within its Consolidated Balance Sheets if it is redeemable at a fixed or determinable price on a fixed or determinable date on the option of the holder, or upon the occurrence of an event that is not solely within the control of the Company.

The carrying amount of the redeemable non-controlling interests is equal to the greater of the carrying value of non-controlling interests adjusted each reporting period for income or loss attributable to the non-controlling interests as well as any applicable distributions made or the redemption value. Re-measurements to the redemption value of the redeemable non-controlling interests are recognized in Paid-in capital within the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company reports the portion of its earnings or loss for redeemable non-controlling interest as Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests - continuing operations, in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

The following is a roll forward of the redeemable non-controlling interests in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Opening balance	$	1,042	$	319	$	—
Recognition upon acquisition of subsidiary 1	—		2,684		309
Acquisition of non-controlling interests 2	—		(2,047)		—
Net loss attributable to Redeemable non-controlling interests	(21)		(73)		(3)
Redemption price adjustments 3	442		179		19
Reclassifications to Accrued expenses and other liabilities 4	(1,314)		—		—
Other	18		(20)		(6)
Ending balance	$	167	$	1,042	$	319

1.Fiscal 2022 includes $1.9 billion of redeemable non-controlling interests, representing the maximum purchase price to redeem non-controlling units in VillageMD for cash, and redeemable non-controlling interests in Shields Health Solutions Parent, LLC (“Shields”) and CCX Next, LLC (“CareCentrix”). On November 24, 2021, VillageMD commenced a tender offer to purchase up to $1.9 billion of units in VillageMD for cash. The tender offer was fully subscribed and settled on December 28, 2021. The tender offer was funded by cash proceeds provided to VillageMD pursuant to the Unit Purchase Agreement.

2.Fiscal 2022 includes $1.9 billion paid to existing shareholders of VillageMD as part of the fully subscribed tender offer and the acquisition of the remaining 30% non-controlling equity interests in the pharmaceutical wholesale business in Germany.

3.Remeasurement of non-controlling interests, probable of redemption but not currently redeemable, to their redemption value, is recorded to Paid-in capital in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In fiscal 2023, Shields and CareCentrix redeemable non-controlling interests were recorded to redemption value.

4.Represents the reclassification of the Shields and CareCentrix redeemable non-controlling interests to Accrued expenses and other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets resulting from the Company's full acquisition of Shields and CareCentrix.

See Note 3. Acquisitions and other investments, for further information.

Non-controlling interests

The Company presents non-controlling interests as a component of equity on its Consolidated Balance Sheets and reports the portion of earnings or losses for non-controlling interests as net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Non-controlling interests primarily relates to VillageMD. As of August 31, 2023 and 2022, VillageMD non-controlling interests comprise 16.0 million and 3.9 million preferred units and 6.5 million and 6.1 million common units, including incentive units, respectively.

Preferred units non-controlling interests have an aggregate liquidation preference of $4.9 billion. All preferred units are convertible into VillageMD common units and certain preferred units are also subject to redemption features controlled by the Company. All preferred units participate in dividends declared by the VillageMD board in the ordinary course of business and in distributions upon a winding-up or change in control of VillageMD. Certain preferred units also participate in cumulative compounding dividends that accumulate at a rate of 5.5% per annum based on the adjusted issue price of the preferred unit and may be settled in cash or shares at the option of the preferred unit holder.

The Company attributes VillageMD earnings and losses to non-controlling interests using the hypothetical-liquidation book value (“HLBV”) method, which is a balance sheet-oriented approach. Under the HLBV method, VillageMD income and losses are attributed to each unit based on changes to the amounts that each unit would hypothetically receive at each period end under the liquidation provisions of the VillageMD Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement, assuming the net assets of VillageMD were liquidated at their carrying values determined in accordance with GAAP. The proportion of earnings and losses attributed to non-controlling interests under HLBV is subject to change as VillageMD net assets change.

Currency

Assets and liabilities of non-U.S. dollar functional currency operations are translated into U.S. dollars at end-of-period exchange rates while revenues, expenses and cash flows are translated at average monthly exchange rates over the period. Equity is translated primarily at historical exchange rates and the resulting cumulative translation adjustments are included as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Assets and liabilities not denominated in the functional currency are remeasured into the functional currency at end-of-period exchange rates, except for non-monetary balance sheet amounts, which are remeasured at historical exchange rates. Revenues and expenses are recorded at average monthly exchange rates over the period, except for those expenses related to non-monetary balance sheet amounts, which are remeasured at historical exchange rates. Gains or losses from foreign currency remeasurement are generally included in Other income, net within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Commitments and contingencies

The Company assesses its liabilities and contingencies for outstanding legal proceedings and reserves are established on a case-by-case basis for those legal claims for which management concludes that it is probable that a loss will be incurred and that the amount of such loss can be reasonably estimated. Substantially all of these contingencies are subject to significant uncertainties and, therefore, determining the likelihood of a loss and/or the measurement of any loss can be complex. With respect to litigation and other legal proceedings where the Company has determined that a loss is reasonably possible, the Company may be unable to estimate the amount or range of reasonably possible loss due to the inherent difficulty of predicting the outcome of and uncertainties regarding such litigation and legal proceedings. The Company’s assessments are based on estimates and assumptions that have been deemed reasonable by management, but that may prove to be incomplete or inaccurate, and unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that might cause the Company to change those estimates and assumptions. Therefore, it is possible that an unfavorable resolution of one or more pending litigation or other contingencies could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements in a future fiscal period. Management’s assessment of current litigation and other legal proceedings, including the corresponding accruals, could change because of the discovery of facts with respect to legal actions or other proceedings pending against the Company which are not presently known. Adverse rulings or determinations by judges, juries, governmental authorities or other parties could also result in changes to management’s assessment of current liabilities and contingencies. Accordingly, the ultimate costs of resolving these claims may be substantially higher or lower than the amounts reserved. See Note 11. Commitments and contingencies, for further information.

Revenue recognition

Sales are recognized at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring control of goods or services to the customer. Sales are reported on the gross amount billed to a customer less discounts if it has earned revenue as a principal from the sale of goods and services. Sales are reported on the net amount retained (i.e., the amount billed to the customer less the amount paid to a vendor) if the Company has earned a commission or a fee as an agent.

Retail and Pharmacy

The Company recognizes revenue, net of taxes and expected returns, at the time it sells merchandise, provides services or dispenses prescription drugs to the customer. The Company estimates revenue based on expected reimbursements from third-party payors (e.g., pharmacy benefit managers, insurance companies and governmental agencies) for dispensing prescription drugs. The estimates are based on all available information including historical experience and are updated to actual reimbursement amounts.

The Company’s loyalty rewards programs represent separate performance obligations and are accounted for using the deferred revenue approach. When goods are sold, the transaction price is allocated between goods sold and loyalty points or Walgreens cash awarded based upon the relative standalone selling price. The revenue allocated to the loyalty points is recognized upon redemption. Loyalty programs breakage is recognized as revenue based on the redemption pattern. Customer purchases of the Company's own gift cards are not recognized as revenue until the card is redeemed. Gift card breakage (i.e., unused gift card) is recognized as revenue based on the redemption pattern.

The Company recognizes contract liabilities to record the Company’s obligation to transfer additional goods or services to a customer for which the Company has received consideration, for example the Company’s myWalgreens and Boots Advantage Card loyalty programs. Under such programs, customers earn Walgreens Cash or reward points on purchases for redemption at a later date.

Wholesale

Wholesale revenue is recognized, net of taxes and expected returns, upon shipment of goods, which is generally also the day of delivery.

Healthcare services

The Company provides healthcare services under fee-for-service and value-based arrangements. Fee-for-service revenues are recognized at the point-in-time medical care is provided. Revenues are reported based on expected net collection rates, which are calculated based on historical collection rates in relation to amounts billed at the time of service. Most of the Company’s value-based arrangements are Medicare Advantage (“MA”) contracts or direct contracting arrangements under the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) Accountable Care Organization Realizing Equity, Access, and Community Health (“ACO REACH”) Model. Revenues from value-based arrangements (“risk-based revenues”) are primarily earned from contracts in which the Company has full or shared risk for the healthcare payor’s eligible members (“value-based patients”). Risk-based revenues are recognized ratably over the term of the contract (generally, one year or less) as the Company's stand-ready obligation to provide healthcare services is satisfied. The Company receive fees from payors which are generally based on a fixed monthly percentage of the premium received by the payor from the payor’s members, or a portion of the payor’s savings relative to an agreed-upon financial benchmark. The Company estimates transaction price based on historical data and data from the payors. Estimates are adjusted to the final settlement amount received from the payor. The Company evaluates whether it is a principal or agent in an arrangement based on the Company’s exposure to financial risk under the arrangement and the Company’s control over the provision of services. The Company has determined that it acts as a principal in the vast majority of its arrangements.

Cost of sales

Retail, Pharmacy and Wholesale

Cost of sales includes the purchase price of goods and cost of services rendered, store and warehouse inventory loss, inventory obsolescence, warehousing costs for retail operations, purchasing costs, freight costs, cash discounts, vendor allowances and supplier rebates. Cost of sales is derived based upon point-of-sale scanning information with an estimate for shrinkage and is adjusted based on periodic inventory counts.

Vendor allowances are principally received as a result of purchases, sales or promotion of vendors’ products. Allowances are generally recorded as a reduction of inventory and are recognized as a reduction of cost of sales when the related merchandise is sold. Allowances received for promoting vendors’ products, if received for a specific, incremental, identifiable cost, are offset against advertising expense and result in a reduction of Selling, general and administrative expenses to the extent of advertising costs incurred, with the excess treated as a reduction of inventory costs. Rebates or refunds received by the Company from its suppliers, mostly in cash, are considered as an adjustment of the prices of the supplier’s products purchased by the Company.

Healthcare services

For operations and activities related to the provision of healthcare, cost of services includes activities that are directly related to the provision of care, including medical claims expense, cost of care, clinic operating and support costs, and allocated depreciation and amortization.

Medical claims expense represents medical claims expenses related to fee-for-service and value-based arrangements and primarily includes costs for third-party healthcare service providers, including contracted providers, that provide medical care to patients. Medical claims expense and the liability for unpaid claims include estimates of the Company’s obligations for medical care services that have been rendered by third parties for which the Company is contractually obligated to pay, but for which claims have either not yet been received, processed or paid. The Company develops estimates for medical care services incurred but not reported (“IBNR”) utilizing actuarial models when a sufficient amount of medical claims history is available from the third-party healthcare service providers. In developing its unpaid claims liability estimates, the Company applies different estimation methods depending on which incurred claims are being estimated.

Cost of care represents the cost of employed providers and certain affiliated providers, including base compensation, quality incentive bonuses, provider benefits and share-based compensation. Clinic operating and support costs include costs incurred to operate clinics, including clinical care support staff, patient support staff, population health management employees, rent, utilities and supplies.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses mainly consist of salaries and employee costs, occupancy costs, depreciation and amortization, credit and debit card fees and expenses directly related to stores. In addition, other costs included are headquarters’ expenses, advertising costs (net of vendor advertising allowances), wholesale warehousing costs and insurance.

Advertising costs

Advertising costs are reduced by the portion funded by vendors, if reimbursement represents a specific, incremental, identifiable cost, and expensed as incurred or when services have been received. Net advertising expenses, which are included in Selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings, were $775 million, $862 million and $772 million for fiscal 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.

Impairment of long-lived assets

The Company evaluates the recoverability of long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such an asset may not be recoverable. The evaluation of long-lived assets is performed at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows, typically at the store level for retail pharmacy operations. Long-lived assets related to the Company’s retail pharmacy operations include property, plant and equipment, definite-lived intangibles, and right of use assets. If the asset group fails the recoverability test, then an impairment charge is determined based on the difference between the fair value of the asset group compared to its carrying value. Fair value of the asset group is generally determined using the income approach based on cash flows expected from the use and eventual disposal of the asset group.

Impairment charges for long-lived assets included in Selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings were $863 million, $380 million and $182 million for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021 respectively.

The determination of the fair value of the asset group requires management to estimate a number of factors including anticipated future cash flows and discount rates. Although we believe these estimates are reasonable, actual results could differ from those estimates due to the inherent uncertainty involved in making such estimates.

Stock compensation plans

Stock based compensation is measured at fair value at the grant date. The Company grants, performance shares and restricted units, and has historically granted stock options, to the Company’s non-employee directors, officers and employees. The Company recognizes compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the substantive service period. The fair value of each performance share granted assumes that performance goals will be achieved at 100 percent. Subsequently, the Company reassesses the probability of achieving the performance goals and vesting and adjusts compensation expense accordingly, including the reversal of previously recognized compensation expense if it is no longer probable that the awards will vest. See Note 13. Stock compensation plans, for more information on the Company’s stock-based compensation plans.

Insurance

The Company obtains insurance coverage for catastrophic exposures as well as those risks required by law to be insured. In general, the Company’s U.S. subsidiaries retain a significant portion of losses related to workers’ compensation, property, comprehensive general, pharmacist, and vehicle liability and full-risk value-based arrangements, while non-U.S. subsidiaries manage their exposures through insurance coverage with third-party carriers. The U.S. Healthcare segment also maintains medical malpractice insurance including professional liability insurance. Management regularly reviews the probable outcome of claims and proceedings, the expenses expected to be incurred, the availability and limits of the insurance coverage and the established accruals for liabilities. Liabilities for losses are recorded based upon the Company’s estimates for both claims incurred and claims incurred but not reported. The provisions are estimated in part by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors and other actuarial assumptions.

Income taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes according to the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based upon the estimated future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured pursuant to tax laws using rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rate is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amounts more likely than not to be realized.

In determining the provision for income taxes, the Company uses income, permanent differences between book and tax income, the relative proportion of foreign and domestic income, enacted statutory income tax rates, projections of income subject to Subpart F rules and unrecognized tax benefits related to current year results. Discrete events such as the assessment of the ultimate outcome of tax audits, audit settlements, recognizing previously unrecognized tax benefits due to lapsing of the applicable statute of limitations, recognizing or de-recognizing benefits of deferred tax assets due to future year financial statement projections and changes in tax laws are recognized in the period in which they occur.

The Company is subject to routine income tax audits that occur periodically in the normal course of business. U.S. federal, state, local and foreign tax authorities raise questions regarding the Company’s tax filing positions, including the timing and amount of deductions and the allocation of income among various tax jurisdictions. In evaluating the tax benefits associated with the various tax filing positions, the Company records a tax benefit for uncertain tax positions using the highest cumulative tax benefit that is more likely than not to be realized. Adjustments are made to the liability for unrecognized tax benefits in the period in which the Company determines the issue is effectively settled with the tax authorities, the statute of limitations expires for the return containing the tax position or when more information becomes available.

Earnings per share

The dilutive effect of outstanding stock options on earnings per share is calculated using the treasury stock method. Stock options are anti-dilutive and excluded from the earnings per share calculation if the exercise price exceeds the average market price of the common shares. There were 17.8 million, 17.1 million and 17.2 million weighted outstanding options to purchase common shares that were anti-dilutive and excluded from the earnings per share calculation for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Due to the anti-dilutive effect resulting from the reported net loss, an incremental 3.0 million of potentially dilutive securities were omitted from the calculation of weighted-average common shares outstanding for fiscal 2023.

New accounting pronouncements

Adoption of new accounting pronouncements

Disclosures by business entities about government assistance

In November 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-10, Government Assistance (Topic 832) – Disclosures by Business Entities about Government Assistance. This ASU requires disclosures that are expected to increase the transparency of transactions with a government accounted for by applying a grant or contribution accounting model by analogy, including (1) the types of transactions, (2) the accounting for those transactions, and (3) the effect of those transactions on an entity’s financial statements. The Company adopted the new standard effective September 1, 2022, and the adoption did not impact the Company's disclosures within these consolidated financial statements.

New accounting pronouncements not yet adopted

Acquired contract assets and contract liabilities in a business combination

In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805) - Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from Contracts with Customers. This ASU requires an entity to recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination in accordance with Topic 606 (Revenue from Contracts with Customers). This ASU is expected to reduce diversity in practice and increase comparability for both the recognition and measurement of acquired revenue contracts with customers at the date of and after a business combination. This ASU is effective for business combinations completed in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022 (fiscal 2024). The Company expects to adopt ASU 2021-08 in the first quarter of fiscal 2024 on a prospective basis. While the impact of this ASU is dependent of the nature of any future transactions, the Company currently does not expect adoption to have a material impact on the Company's results of operations, cash flows, or financial position.

Liabilities — Supplier Finance Programs

In September 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-04, Liabilities—Supplier Finance Programs (Topic 405-50) - Disclosure of Supplier Finance Program Obligations. This ASU requires that a buyer in a supplier finance program disclose sufficient information about the program to allow a user of financial statements to understand the program’s nature, activity during the period, changes from period to period, and potential magnitude. This ASU is expected to improve financial reporting by requiring new disclosures about the programs, thereby allowing financial statement users to better consider the effect of the programs on an entity’s working capital, liquidity, and cash flows. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022 (fiscal 2024), except for the amendment on roll forward information which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 (fiscal 2025). The Company has evaluated the effect of adopting this new accounting guidance and does not expect adoption will have a material impact on the Company's results of operations, cash flows or financial position.

Leases — Common Control ArrangementsIn March 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-01, Leases (Topic 842) – Common Control Arrangements. The ASU amends the accounting for leasehold improvements in common control arrangements by requiring a lessee in a common control lease arrangement to amortize leasehold improvements that it owns over the improvements’ useful life to the common control group, regardless of the lease term, if the lessee continues to control the use of the underlying asset through a lease. Further, a lessee that no longer controls the use of the underlying asset will derecognize the remaining carrying amount of the improvements through an adjustment to equity, reflecting the transfer of the asset to the lessor under common control. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023 (fiscal 2025), including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted in any annual or interim period as of the beginning of the related fiscal year. The Company is evaluating the effect of adopting this new accounting guidance.

Stock compensation plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
Stock compensation plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 385	$ 391	$ 155
Unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards	$ 388
Compensation cost not yet recognized period for recognition	3 years
2021 Omnibus Plan
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 58	133	$ 155
Walgreens health
Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 327	$ 269

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 718
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 35
-Paragraph 1D
-Publisher FASB
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480483/718-10-35-3

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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480429/718-10-50-2

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-Paragraph 2
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480429/718-10-50-2

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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-Subparagraph (c)(1)(iv)(01)
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Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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+ Details

Retirement benefits - accumulated other comprehensive income (Details) - Pension Plan - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Net actuarial loss (gain)	$ 730	$ (251)	$ (506)
Prior service cost	(1)	(1)	(1)
Total pre-tax comprehensive loss (income)	$ 729	$ (252)	$ (507)

Summary of major accounting policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Schedule of reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022		August 31, 2021
Cash and cash equivalents	$	728	$	1,358	$	559
Marketable securities	11		1,114		634
Cash and cash equivalents - assets held for sale (included in other current assets)	24		—		—
Restricted cash (included in other current and non-current assets)	93		86		77
Cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash	$	856	$	2,558	$	1,270

Schedule of property, plant and equipment

The following table summarizes the Company’s property, plant and equipment (in millions) and estimated useful lives (in years):


	Estimated useful life	2023		2022
Land and land improvements	20	$	1,778	$	2,333
Buildings and building improvements	3 to 50	6,683		6,996
Fixtures and equipment	3 to 20	9,782		9,375
Capitalized system development costs and software	3 to 10	3,821		3,087
Assets under construction		1,400		1,785
Finance lease properties		1,075		996
		$	24,540	$	24,572
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization		12,953		12,843
Balance at end of year		$	11,587	$	11,729

Schedule of variable interest entities

The following table summarizes the Entities' assets and liabilities (in millions) as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Total assets	$	881	$	313
Total liabilities	486		142

Temporary Equity

The following is a roll forward of the redeemable non-controlling interests in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Opening balance	$	1,042	$	319	$	—
Recognition upon acquisition of subsidiary 1	—		2,684		309
Acquisition of non-controlling interests 2	—		(2,047)		—
Net loss attributable to Redeemable non-controlling interests	(21)		(73)		(3)
Redemption price adjustments 3	442		179		19
Reclassifications to Accrued expenses and other liabilities 4	(1,314)		—		—
Other	18		(20)		(6)
Ending balance	$	167	$	1,042	$	319

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of the significant judgments and assumptions made in determining whether a variable interest (as defined) held by the entity requires the variable interest entity (VIE) (as defined) to be consolidated and (or) disclose information about its involvement with the VIE, individually or in aggregate (as applicable); the nature of restrictions, if any, on the consolidated VIE's assets and on the settlement of its liabilities reported by an entity in its statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets and liabilities; the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with involvement in the VIE; how involvement with the VIE affects the entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; the lack of recourse if creditors (or beneficial interest holders) of the consolidated VIE have no recourse to the general credit of the primary beneficiary (if applicable); the terms of arrangements, giving consideration to both explicit arrangements and implicit variable interests, if any, that could require the entity to provide financial support to the VIE, including events or circumstances that could expose the entity to a loss; the methodology used by the entity for determining whether or not it is the primary beneficiary of the variable interest entity; the significant factors considered and judgments made in determining that the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance are shared (as defined); the carrying amounts and classification of assets and liabilities of the VIE included in the statement of financial position; the entity's maximum exposure to loss, if any, as a result of its involvement with the VIE, including how the maximum exposure is determined and significant sources of the entity's exposure to the VIE; a comparison of the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities and the entity's maximum exposure to loss; information about any liquidity arrangements, guarantees, and (or) other commitments by third parties that may affect the fair value or risk of the entity's variable interest in the VIE; whether or not the entity has provided financial support or other support (explicitly or implicitly) to the VIE that it was not previously contractually required to provide or whether the entity intends to provide that support, including the type and amount of the support and the primary reasons for providing the support; and supplemental information the entity determines necessary to provide.

+ References + Details

Stock compensation plans	12 Months Ended
Stock compensation plans	Aug. 31, 2023
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Stock compensation plans	Stock compensation plans In fiscal 2021, the Company's Board of Directors approved the Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. 2021 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2021 Omnibus Plan”). The 2021 Omnibus Plan replicates the Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. 2013 Omnibus Incentive Plan and provides incentive compensation to the Company’s non-employee directors, officers and other eligible employees. The Company grants stock options, performance shares and restricted units under the 2021 Omnibus Plan. Performance shares issued under the 2021 Omnibus Plan offer performance-based incentive equity awards to certain employees. Restricted stock units are also equity-based awards with vesting requirements that are granted to key employees. The performance shares and restricted stock unit awards are both subject to restrictions as to continuous employment except in the case of death, normal retirement or total and permanent disability. Stock-based compensation expense associated with such plans for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021 was $58 million, $133 million and $155 million, respectively. Certain majority-owned subsidiaries within the U.S. Healthcare segment maintain standalone stock-based compensation plans. Stock-based compensation expense associated with such plans for fiscal 2023 and 2022 was $327 million and $269 million, respectively, including the impact of fair value adjustments resulting from acquisitions. Awards granted under standalone stock-based compensation plans include subsidiary units, profits interests, and options. Awards generally vest over time or subject to achievement of certain subsidiary performance targets. Certain awards accelerate vesting upon a change in control or upon the Company’s acquisition of additional subsidiary equity above a certain threshold. Unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards, inclusive of awards issued under the 2021 Omnibus Plan and the standalone subsidiary stock compensation plans, was $388 million at August 31, 2023, which will be fully recognized over the next three years.

Acquisitions and other Investments - narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions								3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2023	Mar. 03, 2023	Jan. 03, 2023	Dec. 28, 2022	Aug. 31, 2022	Nov. 24, 2021	Oct. 29, 2021	Nov. 30, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021	Oct. 28, 2021
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments									$ 252
Gain on sale of equity method investment									1,855	$ 559	$ 321
Goodwill					$ 22,280				28,187	22,280	$ 12,421
VillageMD
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Fair value of equity consideration			$ 1,750
Noncontrolling interest, ownership percentage by parent			53.00%
Debt instrument, fee amount, credit			$ 220
VillageMD \| Line of Credit
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Face amount			2,250
VillageMD \| Line of Credit \| Term loan
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Face amount			1,750
VillageMD \| Line of Credit \| Credit facilities
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Face amount			500
VillageMD \| Cigna
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Fair value of equity consideration			2,500
Summit Heath-CityMD
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration			7,000
Total purchase price			4,850
Fair value of equity consideration			1,971
Deferred consideration			100
Business combination, consideration transferred, employees			87
Summit debt paid at closing			1,900
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments									257
Tax deductible goodwill			433
Intangible assets			3,359
Goodwill			5,436
Summit Heath-CityMD \| Partnership Interest
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Fair value of equity consideration			2,050
Summit Heath-CityMD \| Primary Care Provider Network
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets			$ 1,900
Useful life of capitalized software costs			15 years
Summit Heath-CityMD \| Trade Names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets			$ 1,500
Summit Heath-CityMD \| Minimum \| Trade Names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Useful life of capitalized software costs			11 years
Summit Heath-CityMD \| Maximum \| Trade Names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Useful life of capitalized software costs			15 years
VillageMD
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total purchase price						$ 5,200
Fair value of equity consideration						683
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments									125
Business combination, consideration transferred, gross						4,000
Business combination, consideration transferred, other						1,200
Business combination, consideration transferred to existing stockholders						2,900
Business acquisition, value of common stock shares acquired						1,900
Business combination, cash transferred for preferred units						1,100
Gain on sale of equity method investment								$ 1,597
Other comprehensive income (loss), reclassification adjustment from AOCI for investment transferred from available-for-sale to equity method, after tax								$ 577
Intangible assets						1,621
Goodwill						8,166
VillageMD \| Primary Care Provider Network
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets						$ 1,200
Useful life of capitalized software costs						15 years
VillageMD \| Trade Names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets						$ 295
Useful life of capitalized software costs						13 years
VillageMD \| Technology-Based Intangible Assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets						$ 76
Useful life of capitalized software costs						5 years
VillageMD \| Minimum
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Outstanding equity interest percentage						30.00%
VillageMD \| Maximum
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Outstanding equity interest percentage						63.00%
Shields Health Solutions
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration							$ 969
Total purchase price				$ 1,400
Fair value of equity consideration							$ 13
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments									72
Outstanding equity interest percentage				30.00%			70.00%					25.00%
Gain on sale of equity method investment										$ 402
Intangible assets							$ 1,060
Goodwill							1,529
Shields Health Solutions \| Trade Names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets							$ 47
Useful life of capitalized software costs							13 years
Shields Health Solutions \| Technology-Based Intangible Assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets							$ 117
Useful life of capitalized software costs							5 years
Shields Health Solutions \| Customer Relationships
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets							$ 896
Useful life of capitalized software costs							13 years
CareCentrix, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration					327
Total purchase price	$ 378
Fair value of equity consideration					66
Business combination, consideration transferred, employees					$ 12
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments									56
Outstanding equity interest percentage	45.00%				55.00%					55.00%
Business combination, consideration transferred, gross					$ 339
Intangible assets					426					$ 426
Goodwill					509					509
CareCentrix, Inc. \| Trade Names
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets					$ 93					$ 93
Useful life of capitalized software costs					13 years					13 years
CareCentrix, Inc. \| Technology-Based Intangible Assets
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets					$ 86					$ 86
Useful life of capitalized software costs					5 years					5 years
CareCentrix, Inc. \| Customer Relationships
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets					$ 247					$ 247
Useful life of capitalized software costs					13 years					13 years
Other Acquisitions
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Total purchase price									324	$ 196
Starling MSO Holdings, LLC
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cash consideration		$ 284
Total purchase price		222
Fair value of equity consideration		$ 62
Intangible assets									128
Goodwill									$ 104

Leases - other supplemental information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease obligations
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$ 3,579	$ 3,351	$ 3,414
Operating cash flows from finance leases	47	47	48
Financing cash flows from finance leases	52	43	42
Total	3,679	3,441	3,503
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations
Operating leases	2,323	2,078	2,765
Finance leases	30	11	0
Total	$ 2,352	$ 2,089	$ 2,765

Summary of major accounting policies - property plant and equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant, and equipment and finance lease right-of-use asset, before accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ 24,540	$ 24,572
Property, plant, and equipment and finance lease right-of-use asset, accumulated depreciation and amortization	12,953	12,843
Property and equipment, net	$ 11,587	11,729
Land and land improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	20 years
Property and equipment	$ 1,778	2,333
Buildings and building improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$ 6,683	6,996
Buildings and building improvements \| Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years
Buildings and building improvements \| Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	50 years
Fixtures and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$ 9,782	9,375
Fixtures and equipment \| Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years
Fixtures and equipment \| Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	20 years
Capitalized system development costs and software
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$ 3,821	3,087
Capitalized system development costs and software \| Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	3 years
Capitalized system development costs and software \| Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful life	10 years
Asset under construction
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment	$ 1,400	1,785
Finance lease properties
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Finance lease properties	$ 1,075	$ 996

Income taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of income before income tax, domestic and foreign

The components of (Loss) earnings before income tax (benefit) provision were (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
U.S.	$	(7,553)	$	2,998	$	61
Non–U.S.	2,134		987		1,934
Total	$	(5,419)	$	3,985	$	1,995

Provisions for income taxes

The Income tax (benefit) provision consists of the following (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Current provision
Federal	$	242	$	39	$	79
State	(13)		37		115
Non–U.S.	283		260		234
	$	512	$	336	$	428
Deferred provision

Federal	$	(1,886)	$	(78)	$	(10)
State	(364)		(20)		(46)
Non–U.S. – tax law change	—		—		344
Non–U.S. – excluding tax law change	(120)		(268)		(49)
	(2,370)		(366)		239
Income tax (benefit) provision	$	(1,858)	$	(30)	$	667

Difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective tax rate

The difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective tax rate is as follows:


	2023		2022		2021
Federal statutory rate	21.0	%	21.0	%	21.0	%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	5.8		0.4		3.5
Foreign income taxed at non-U.S. rates	(3.0)		(3.0)		(4.4)
Non-taxable income	2.5		(2.7)		(5.0)
Non-deductible expenses	(4.9)		3.0		0.3
Tax law changes	—		—		17.3
Change in valuation allowance 1	6.0		(9.0)		(4.7)
Tax benefits from restructuring	1.1		—		(4.2)
Tax expense on non-operating equity earnings	—		—		6.1
Uncertain tax positions	(0.5)		1.3		6.2
Non-controlling interest	(2.9)		1.2		—

Tax credits	2.8		(1.0)		(1.8)
Conversion of equity investment	—		(11.8)		—
Change in outside basis difference	1.9		—		—
Change in measurement of prior year tax positions	3.5		—		—
Other	1.0		(0.2)		(0.9)
Effective income tax rate 2	34.3	%	(0.8)	%	33.4	%

1Net of changes in related tax attributes and tax benefits from capital losses generated and utilized.

2Effective tax rate for fiscal 2023 represents a tax benefit on a pre-tax loss.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities included in the consolidated balance sheet

The deferred tax assets and liabilities included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of the following (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Deferred tax assets:

Compensation and benefits	$	98	$	171

Insurance	131		108
Accrued rent & lease obligations	5,265		5,296

Legal liability 1	1,551		174
Allowance for doubtful accounts	23		53
Tax attributes	7,784		7,825
Stock compensation	74		56
Deferred income	8		120
Equity method investment	76		—
Other 1	143		56
Total deferred tax assets	$	15,153	$	13,859
Less: valuation allowance	7,360		7,521
Total deferred tax assets, net	$	7,793	$	6,338

Deferred tax liabilities:
Accelerated depreciation	$	254	$	634
Inventory	403		441
Intangible assets	1,024		1,134
Equity method investment	—		314
Lease right-of-use asset	4,690		4,763
Outside basis difference 1	1,045		52
Other 1	180		303
Total deferred tax liabilities	7,596		7,641

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)	$	197	$	(1,303)

1Includes certain reclassifications to conform to current period presentation.

Reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits

The following table provides a reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Balance at beginning of year	$	1,110	$	1,098	$	494
Gross increases related to tax positions in a prior period	12		63		229
Gross decreases related to tax positions in a prior period	(19)		(51)		(52)
Gross increases related to tax positions in the current period	12		21		446
Settlements with taxing authorities	(7)		(19)		(13)

Lapse of statute of limitations	(2)		(2)		(6)
Balance at end of year	$	1,106	$	1,110	$	1,098

Cover Page - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
Cover Page - USD ($) $ in Billions	Aug. 31, 2023	Sep. 29, 2023	Feb. 28, 2023
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-K
Document Annual Report	true
Document Period End Date	Aug. 31, 2023
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--08-31
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	001-36759
Entity Registrant Name	WALGREENS BOOTS ALLIANCE, INC.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Tax Identification Number	47-1758322
Entity Address, Address Line One	108 Wilmot Road
Entity Address, City or Town	Deerfield
Entity Address, State or Province	IL
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	60015
City Area Code	847
Local Phone Number	315-3700
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag	true
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Public Float			$ 25.4
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		863,914,593
Documents Incorporated by Reference	Portions of the definitive proxy statement for our Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K as indicated herein.
Entity Central Index Key	0001618921
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2023
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Common Stock, $0.01 par value
Document Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, $0.01 par value
Trading Symbol	WBA
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
3.600% Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. notes due 2025
Document Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	3.600% Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. notes due 2025
Trading Symbol	WBA25
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
2.125% Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. notes due 2026
Document Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	2.125% Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. notes due 2026
Trading Symbol	WBA26
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ

Capital stock (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
Capital stock (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021	Jun. 30, 2018
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Shares repurchased during period (in shares)	0	0
Stock repurchased during current fiscal year, value	$ 150,000,000	$ 187,000,000	$ 110,000,000
Shares of common stock reserved for future issuances (in shares)	63,000
June 2018 Stock Repurchase Program
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]
Share repurchase program, authorized maximum amount				$ 10,000,000,000
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized amount to be purchased	$ 2,000,000,000

- Definition

Number of shares that have been repurchased during the period and have not been retired and are not held in treasury. Some state laws may govern the circumstances under which an entity may acquire its own stock and prescribe the accounting treatment therefore. This element is used when state law does not recognize treasury stock.

+ References + Details

- Definition

Equity impact of the value of stock that has been repurchased during the period and has not been retired and is not held in treasury. Some state laws may mandate the circumstances under which an entity may acquire its own stock and prescribe the accounting treatment therefore. This element is used when state law does not recognize treasury stock.

+ References + Details

Income taxes - deferred tax assets and liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Deferred tax assets:
Compensation and benefits	$ 98	$ 171
Insurance	131	108
Accrued rent & lease obligations	5,265	5,296
Legal liability	1,551	174
Allowance for doubtful accounts	23	53
Tax attributes	7,784	7,825
Stock compensation	74	56
Deferred income	8	120
Equity method investment	76	0
Other	143	56
Subtotal deferred tax assets	15,153	13,859
Less: valuation allowance	7,360	7,521
Total deferred tax assets, net	7,793	6,338
Deferred tax liabilities:
Accelerated depreciation	254	634
Inventory	403	441
Intangible assets	1,024	1,134
Equity method investment	0	314
Lease right-of-use asset	4,690	4,763
Outside basis difference	1,045	52
Other	180	303
Total deferred tax liabilities	7,596	7,641
Net deferred tax assets	$ 197
Net deferred tax liabilities		$ (1,303)

Equity method investments - narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 15, 2022	May 31, 2023	Feb. 28, 2022	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Gain on sale of equity method investment				$ 1,855	$ 559	$ 321
Equity earnings (loss)				286	468	(498)
Share of OCI of equity method investments
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments				$ 6	$ (326)	(24)
Cencora
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment owned (in shares)				31,800,000	52,900,000
Percentage of outstanding common shares owned				15.90%	25.40%
Proceeds from sale of equity method investments				$ 3,400	$ 900
Gain on sale of equity method investment				1,600	417
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments				$ (160)	(32)
Time period of reporting lag				2 months
Equity earnings (loss)				$ 252	418	(1,100)
Equity investment, exceeded its proportionate share of net assets				2,400
Cencora \| Opiod Litigation
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity earnings (loss)					(5,600)
Cencora \| Level 1
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Fair value of assets				5,600	7,700
Guangzhou Pharmaceuticals
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of equity method investments	$ 150
Option Care Health
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Proceeds from sale of equity method investments				798	363
Gain on sale of equity method investment		$ 76		$ 186	145	290
Equity earnings (loss)						576
Option Care Health \| HC Group Holdings I, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Gain on sale of equity method investment						$ 1,200
VillageMD
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Gain on sale of equity method investment					2,200
Equity method investment, other than temporary impairment			$ 124
Shields Health Solutions
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Gain on sale of equity method investment					$ 402

Retirement benefits - expected future benefit payments (Details) - Pension Plan $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2024	$ 324
2025	305
2026	317
2027	326
2028	337
2029-2033	$ 1,798

Commitments and contingencies (Details) $ in Millions				1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
Commitments and contingencies (Details) $ in Millions	Nov. 02, 2022 USD ($)	Jun. 29, 2022 USD ($)	May 05, 2022 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2022 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2020 case	Dec. 31, 2017 case	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)	Jun. 08, 2023	Nov. 30, 2022 USD ($)
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Accrued litigation obligations				$ 551			$ 6,261
Washtenaw County Employees Retirement Systemn \| Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Litigation settlement, amount awarded to other party		$ 105
Rite Aid Merger
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of cases \| case					2
Rite Aid Merger \| Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated litigation liability							193
Settlement Frameworks \| Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Accrued litigation obligations	$ 754
Litigation settlement, period	6 years
Estimated litigation liability									$ 6,500
Settlement Frameworks \| Settled Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Accrued litigation obligations							6,300
Estimated litigation liability, current							703
Estimated litigation liability							7,000
Percentage of litigating subdivisions								99.50%
Settling States \| Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Litigation settlement, period	15 years
Estimated litigation liability	$ 4,800
Settling States \| Settled Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Litigation settlement, period	15 years
Settling Tribes \| Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated litigation liability	$ 155
Consolidated Cases in State of Florida \| Settled Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Litigation settlement, amount awarded to other party			$ 683
Accrued litigation obligations			$ 620
Litigation settlement, period			18 years
Estimated litigation liability, current			$ 63
Estimated litigation liability				683
Ohio Combined Cases \| Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Litigation settlement, amount awarded to other party				$ 651
Litigation settlement, period				15 years
Number of cases \| case						2
Humana \| Pending Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated litigation liability							304
Humana \| Settled Litigation
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Litigation settlement, amount awarded to other party							$ 642

Goodwill and other intangible assets - schedule of finite-lived intangible assets by major class (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$ 10,767	$ 7,155
Total accumulated amortization	2,609	1,953
Total amortizable intangible assets, net	8,158	5,202
Total indefinite-lived intangible assets	5,477	5,528
Total intangible assets, net	13,635	10,730
Trade names and trademarks
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total indefinite-lived intangible assets	4,650	4,319
Pharmacy licenses
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total indefinite-lived intangible assets	828	1,209
Customer relationships and loyalty card holders
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	4,658	4,619
Total accumulated amortization	1,784	1,548
Primary Care Provider Network
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	3,202	1,247
Total accumulated amortization	233	64
Trade names and trademarks
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	2,300	760
Total accumulated amortization	401	246
Developed Technology
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	469	436
Total accumulated amortization	143	56
Other Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	137	93
Total accumulated amortization	$ 48	$ 39

Acquisitions and other Investments

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract]

Acquisitions and other Investments

Acquisitions and other investments

Summit acquisition

On January 3, 2023, VillageMD, through its parent company, following an internal reorganization, completed the acquisition of WP CityMD TopCo (“Summit”), a provider of primary, specialty and urgent care in exchange, for $7.0 billion aggregate consideration, consisting of $4.85 billion of cash consideration paid, $2.05 billion in preferred units of VillageMD issued to Summit equity holders and $100 million of cash to be paid one year following closing. The cash consideration includes $87 million of cash paid to fund acquisition-related bonuses to Summit Health-CityMD employees which is recognized as a compensation expense of the Company. In addition, VillageMD paid off approximately $1.9 billion in net debt of Summit. In connection with the amended Agreement and Plan of Merger, and in order to finance the acquisition, the Company and Cigna Health & Life Insurance Company acquired preferred units of VillageMD in exchange for $1.75 billion and $2.5 billion in aggregate consideration, respectively. Following the Summit acquisition, the Company remains the largest and consolidating equity holder of VillageMD with ownership of approximately 53% of the outstanding equity interests on a fully diluted basis.

Further, the Company entered into a credit agreement with VillageMD pursuant to which the Company provided VillageMD senior secured credit facilities in the aggregate amount of $2.25 billion, consisting of (i) a senior secured term loan facility in an aggregate original principal amount of $1.75 billion to support the acquisition of Summit; and (ii) a senior secured revolving credit facility in an aggregate original committed amount of $500 million available for general corporate purposes. In connection with the issuance of the senior secured credit facilities, the Company received a $220 million credit for certain fees payable by VillageMD in the form of preferred units of VillageMD. The intercompany facilities eliminate in consolidation.

The Company accounted for this acquisition as a business combination resulting in consolidation of Summit within the U.S. Healthcare segment in its financial statements. As of August 31, 2023, the Company had not completed the analysis to assign fair values to all tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. As such, the preliminary purchase price allocation will be subject to further refinement and may change. These changes may relate to the allocation of purchase consideration to all tangible and intangible assets acquired and identified and liabilities assumed. In fiscal 2023, the Company recorded certain measurement period adjustments, primarily related to deferred income taxes, based on additional information, resulting in a decrease to goodwill of $257 million.

The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration 1	$	4,778
Deferred consideration	100
Summit debt paid at closing	1,963
Fair value of equity consideration 2	1,971
Fair value of non-controlling interests	13
Total	$	8,825

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	69
Accounts receivable, net	382

Property, plant and equipment	607
Intangible assets 3	3,359
Operating lease right-of-use assets	756
Other assets	173

Operating lease obligations	(773)
Deferred tax liability	(737)
Other liabilities	(446)
Total identifiable net assets	$	3,390

Goodwill	$	5,436

1.Cash consideration excludes $87 million of cash paid to fund acquisition-related bonuses to Summit employees which is recognized as compensation expense of the Company.

2.The fair value of the non-controlling interests was calculated based on the implied equity value of VillageMD, allocated to all units on an as-converted basis.

3.Intangibles acquired include provider networks and trade names with fair values of $1.9 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively. Estimated useful lives are 15 years and 11 to 15 years, respectively.

The goodwill represents anticipated future growth and expansion opportunities into new healthcare offerings and new markets. $433 million of the goodwill is expected to be tax deductible.

Supplemental pro forma information - Summit

The following table represents unaudited supplemental pro forma consolidated sales for the years ended August 31, 2023 and 2022, as if the acquisition of Summit had occurred at the beginning of fiscal 2022. The unaudited pro forma information has been prepared for comparative purposes only and is not intended to be indicative of what the Company's results would have been had the acquisition occurred at the beginning of each period presented or results which may occur in the future.


(Unaudited, in millions)	2023		2022
Sales	$	140,039	$	135,379

Actual sales of Summit, from the acquisition date, for the year ended August 31, 2023, included in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings are as follows (in millions):


	2023
Sales	$	1,896

Pro forma net earnings of the Company, assuming the acquisition had occurred at the beginning of each period presented, would not be materially different from the results reported.

VillageMD acquisition

On November 24, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of VillageMD, a national provider of value-based primary care services. Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Unit Purchase Agreement, the Company purchased additional outstanding equity interests of VillageMD, increasing the Company’s total beneficial ownership in VillageMD’s outstanding equity interests from approximately 30% to approximately 63%, on a fully diluted basis, for a purchase price of $5.2 billion. The total purchase price was comprised of cash consideration of $4.0 billion and a promissory note of $1.2 billion. The cash consideration of $4.0 billion consisted of $2.9 billion paid to existing shareholders, including $1.9 billion paid to existing shareholders as part of the fully subscribed tender offer concluded on December 28, 2021, and $1.1 billion paid in exchange for new preferred units issued by VillageMD. Subject to notice being served, the Company had an option to prepay, and VillageMD had an option to require redemption of, the promissory note at any time. The promissory note was eliminated in consolidation within the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of August 31, 2022. The promissory note was paid in January 2023 prior to the Summit acquisition.

The Company accounted for this acquisition as a business combination resulting in consolidation of VillageMD within the U.S. Healthcare segment in its financial statements. A non-controlling interest was recognized at fair value.

As a result of this acquisition, in the three months ended November 30, 2021, the Company recognized a pre-tax gain in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings of $1,597 million related to the fair valuation of the Company’s previously held minority equity interest. The Company also recorded a pre-tax gain of $577 million in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings related to the conversion to equity of the Company’s previously held investment in convertible debt securities of VillageMD, reclassified from within Accumulated other comprehensive income in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. A majority of the gains did not generate a tax expense.

In fiscal 2023, the Company completed the purchase price allocation and recorded certain deferred income tax related measurement period adjustments based on additional information, resulting in an increase to goodwill of $125 million.

The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Total purchase price	$	5,200
Less: purchase price for issuance of new preferred units at fair value 1	(2,300)
Net consideration	2,900
Fair value of share-based compensation awards attributable to pre-combination services 2	683
Fair value of previously held equity and debt	3,211
Fair value of non-controlling interest	3,257
Total	$	10,051

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets 1	$	634
Intangible assets 3	1,621
Liabilities	(370)
Total identifiable net assets	$	1,885

Goodwill	$	8,166

1.Comprised of cash consideration of $1.1 billion and a promissory note of $1.2 billion. This consideration was provided in exchange for the issuance of new preferred units by VillageMD. VillageMD’s tangible assets acquired exclude this $1.1 billion of cash and $1.2 billion promissory note receivable.

2.Primarily related to vested share-based compensation awards.

3.Intangibles acquired include primary care provider network, trade names and developed technology, with a fair value of $1.2 billion, $295 million and $76 million, respectively. Estimated useful lives are 15, 13 and 5 years, respectively.

The goodwill represents anticipated future growth and expansion opportunities into new markets.

Shields acquisition

On October 29, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of Shields Health Solutions Parent, LLC (“Shields”), a specialty pharmacy integrator and accelerator for hospitals. Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Securities Purchase Agreement, the Company purchased additional outstanding equity interests of Shields, increasing the Company’s total beneficial ownership in Shields’ outstanding equity interests from 25% to approximately 70%, for cash consideration of $969 million. The Company accounted for this acquisition as a business combination resulting in consolidation of Shields within the U.S. Healthcare segment in its financial statements. A non-controlling interest was recognized at fair value. Under the terms of the transaction agreements, the Company had an option to acquire the remaining equity interests of Shields in the future. Shields’ other equity holders had an option to require the Company to purchase the remaining equity interests. Considering the contractual terms related to the non-controlling interests, it was classified as redeemable non-controlling interests in the Consolidated Balance Sheets upon acquisition.

In fiscal 2022, as a result of this acquisition the Company remeasured its previously held minority equity interest in Shields at fair value resulting in a pre-tax gain of $402 million recognized in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. A majority of the gain did not generate a tax expense.

The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration	$	969
Fair value of share-based compensation awards attributable to pre-combination services	13
Fair value of previously held equity interests	502
Fair value of non-controlling interests	589
Total	$	2,074

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets	$	84
Intangible assets 1	1,060
Liabilities	(600)
Total identifiable net assets	$	544

Goodwill	$	1,529

1.Intangibles acquired include customer relationships, trade names and developed technology, with a fair value of $896 million, $47 million and $117 million. Estimated useful lives are 13, 13 and 5 years, respectively.

The goodwill represents anticipated future growth and expansion opportunities into new healthcare offerings.

On December 28, 2022 the Company acquired the remaining 30% equity interest for approximately $1.4 billion of cash consideration.

CareCentrix acquisition

On August 31, 2022, the Company completed the acquisition of CareCentrix (“CareCentrix”). Pursuant to the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Membership Interest Purchase Agreement, the Company acquired approximately 55% controlling equity interest in CareCentrix, a participant in the post-acute and home care management sectors, for cash consideration of $339 million. The cash consideration includes $12 million paid to employees, which was recognized as compensation expense by the Company.

The Company accounted for this acquisition as a business combination resulting in consolidation of CareCentrix within the U.S. Healthcare segment in its financial statements. A non-controlling interest was recognized at fair value. Under the terms of the transaction agreements, the Company had an option to acquire the remaining equity interests of CareCentrix in the future. CareCentrix’s other equity holders also had an option to require the Company to purchase the remaining equity interests. Considering the contractual terms related to the non-controlling interests, it was classified as redeemable non-controlling interests in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

In fiscal 2023, the Company completed the purchase price allocation and recorded certain measurement period adjustments based on additional information, primarily related to acquired intangible assets and certain liabilities assumed, resulting in an increase to goodwill of $56 million.

As of August 31, 2023 the Company completed the purchase price allocation. The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration 1	327
Contingent consideration	4
Fair value of share-based compensation awards attributable to pre-combination services	66
Fair value of non-controlling interests	217
Total	$	614

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets	$	358
Intangible assets 2	426
Liabilities	(680)
Total identifiable net assets	$	104

Goodwill	$	509

1.Excludes $12 million of cash paid to employees, which was recognized as compensation expense by the Company.

2.Intangibles acquired include customer relationships, trade names and developed technology, with a fair value of $247 million, $93 million and $86 million, respectively. Estimated useful lives are 13, 13 and 5 years, respectively.

The goodwill represents anticipated future growth and expansion opportunities into new healthcare offerings.

On March 31, 2023, the Company acquired the remaining 45% equity interest in CareCentrix for approximately $378 million of cash consideration.

Supplemental pro forma information

The following table represents unaudited supplemental pro forma consolidated sales for fiscal 2022 acquisitions, for the year ended August 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, as if the acquisitions had occurred at the beginning of fiscal 2021. The unaudited pro forma information has been prepared for comparative purposes only and is not intended to be indicative of what the Company's results would have been had the acquisitions occurred at the beginning of the periods presented or results which may occur in the future.


(Unaudited, in millions)	2022		2021
Sales	$	134,314	$	135,306

Actual sales of the acquisitions for the year ended August 31, 2022 included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings are as follows (in millions):


	2022
Sales	$	1,795

Pro forma net earnings of the Company, assuming the acquisitions had occurred at the beginning of each period presented, would not be materially different from the results reported.

See Note 17. Segment reporting for further information.

Other acquisitions

On March 3, 2023, the Company completed the acquisition of Starling MSO Holdings, LLC (“Starling”), a primary care and multi-specialty group, for total consideration of $284 million. Total consideration includes $222 million of cash consideration and $62 million of VillageMD equity issued to Starling equity holders, including employees. VillageMD equity issued to employees will be recognized as compensation expense in the future. As a result of the acquisition, the Company recognized goodwill and intangible assets of $104 million and $128 million, respectively. As of August 31, 2023, the Company had not completed the analysis to assign fair values to all tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. As such, the preliminary purchase price allocation will be subject to further refinement and may change.

The Company acquired certain prescription files and related pharmacy inventory primarily in the U.S. for the aggregate purchase price of $324 million and $196 million during fiscal 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Goodwill and other intangible assets

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill and other intangible assets

Based on the analysis completed as of the June 1, 2023 valuation date, the fair values of the Company’s reporting units exceeded their carrying amounts ranging from approximately 3% to approximately 227%, except for VillageMD and CareCentrix reporting units where the fair values approximated the carrying values. As of August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022, the Boots reporting unit's fair value was in excess of its carrying value by approximately 3% and 7%, respectively. As of August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022, the carrying value of goodwill within the Boots reporting unit was $977 million and $906 million, respectively.

In the third quarter of fiscal 2023, as a result of pharmacy performance and the decision to close additional stores, the Company completed a quantitative impairment analysis for certain indefinite-lived intangible assets related to the Boots reporting unit within the International segment. Based on this analysis, the Company recorded an impairment loss of $431 million within Selling, general and administrative expenses within the Consolidated Statement of Earnings related to pharmacy license intangible assets. The fair values of indefinite-lived intangibles within the Boots reporting unit exceeded their carrying value amounts ranging from approximately 3% to approximately 32%. As of August 31, 2023 and 2022, the carrying value of the indefinite-lived intangibles within the Boots reporting unit was $5.5 billion.

In fiscal 2022 and 2021, the Company recorded, within Selling, general and administrative expenses, an impairment loss of $783 million and $49 million, respectively, related to indefinite-lived pharmacy license and trade name intangible assets in the Boots reporting unit, part of the International segment.

Definite-lived intangible assets are evaluated for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that a certain asset or asset group may be impaired. No material impairment was recorded for definite-lived intangibles in fiscal 2023, 2022 or 2021.

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment consist of the following activity (in millions):


Goodwill roll forward:	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
August 31, 2021	$	10,947	$	1,474	$	—	$	12,421
Acquisitions 1	—		—		10,040		10,040
Currency translation adjustments and other	—		(181)		—		(181)
August 31, 2022	$	10,947	$	1,293	$	10,040	$	22,280
Acquisitions 2	$	—	$	—	$	5,588	$	5,588
Adjustments 3	—		—		252		252
Currency translation adjustments and other	—		85		(18)		67
August 31, 2023	$	10,947	$	1,378	$	15,863	$	28,187

1.In fiscal 2022, the Company acquired controlling equity interests in VillageMD, Shields and CareCentrix which resulted in an increase to goodwill of $8.0 billion, $1.5 billion and $454 million, respectively.

2.In fiscal 2023, additions to goodwill primarily relate to VillageMD's acquisition of Summit.

3.Includes measurement period adjustments related to the acquisitions of VillageMD, Shields and CareCentrix. See Note 3. Acquisitions and other investments.

The carrying amount and accumulated amortization of intangible assets consist of the following (in millions):


Intangible assets:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Gross amortizable intangible assets
Customer relationships and loyalty card holders 1	$	4,658	$	4,619
Provider networks	3,202		1,247
Trade names and trademarks	2,300		760
Developed technology	469		436
Others 2	137		93
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$	10,767	$	7,155

Accumulated amortization
Customer relationships and loyalty card holders 1	$	1,784	$	1,548
Provider networks	233		64
Trade names and trademarks	401		246
Developed technology	143		56
Others 2	48		39
Total accumulated amortization	2,609		1,953
Total amortizable intangible assets, net	$	8,158	$	5,202

Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Trade names and trademarks	$	4,650	$	4,319
Pharmacy licenses	828		1,209
Total indefinite-lived intangible assets	$	5,477	$	5,528

Total intangible assets, net	$	13,635	$	10,730

1Includes purchased prescription files.

2Includes certain reclassifications to conform to current period presentation.

Amortization expense for intangible assets was $815 million, $639 million and $523 million in fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Estimated future annual amortization expense for the next five fiscal years for intangible assets recorded at August 31, 2023 is as follows (in millions):


	2024		2025		2026		2027		2028
Estimated annual amortization expense	$	930	$	884	$	852	$	773	$	697

Income taxes - reconciliation to effective tax rate (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory rate	21.00%	21.00%	21.00%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	5.80%	0.40%	3.50%
Foreign income taxed at non-U.S. rates	(3.00%)	(3.00%)	(4.40%)
Non-taxable income	2.50%	(2.70%)	(5.00%)
Non-deductible expenses	(4.90%)	3.00%	0.30%
Tax law changes	0.00%	0.00%	17.30%
Change in valuation allowance	6.00%	(9.00%)	(4.70%)
Tax benefits from restructuring	1.10%	0.00%	(4.20%)
Tax expense on non-operating equity earnings	0.00%	0.00%	6.10%
Uncertain tax positions	(0.50%)	1.30%	6.20%
Non-controlling interest	(2.90%)	1.20%	0.00%
Tax credits	2.80%	(1.00%)	(1.80%)
Conversion of equity investment	0.00%	(11.80%)	0.00%
Change in outside basis difference	1.90%	0.00%	0.00%
Change in measurement of prior year tax positions	3.50%	0.00%	0.00%
Other	1.00%	(0.20%)	(0.90%)
Effective income tax rate	34.30%	(0.80%)	33.40%

Segment reporting

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment reporting

The Company aligned into three reportable segments: U.S. Retail Pharmacy, International and U.S. Healthcare.

The operating segments have been identified based on the financial data utilized by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (the chief operating decision maker) to assess segment performance and allocate resources among the Company’s operating segments. The chief operating decision maker uses adjusted operating income to assess segment profitability. The chief operating decision maker does not use total assets by segment to make decisions regarding resources; therefore, the total asset disclosure by segment has not been included.

U.S. Retail Pharmacy

The Company's U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment includes the Walgreens business which is comprised of the operations of retail drugstores, health and wellness services, specialty and home delivery pharmacy services, and its equity method investment in Cencora. Sales for the segment are principally derived from the sale of prescription drugs and a wide assortment of retail products, including health and wellness, beauty, personal care and consumables and general merchandise.

International

The Company's International segment consists of pharmacy-led health and beauty retail businesses outside the U.S. and a pharmaceutical wholesaling and distribution business in Germany. Pharmacy-led health and beauty retail businesses include Boots branded stores in the UK, the Republic of Ireland and Thailand, the Benavides brand in Mexico and the Ahumada brand in Chile. Sales for these businesses are principally derived from the sale of prescription drugs and health and wellness, beauty, personal care and other consumer products.

U.S. Healthcare

The Company’s U.S. Healthcare segment is a consumer-centric, technology-enabled healthcare business that engages consumers through a personalized, omni-channel experience across the care journey. The U.S. Healthcare segment delivers improved health outcomes and lower costs for payors and providers by delivering care through owned and partnered assets.

The U.S. Healthcare segment currently consists of a majority position in VillageMD, a national provider of value-based care with primary, multi-specialty, and urgent care providers serving patients in traditional clinic settings, in patients’ homes and online appointments; Shields, a specialty pharmacy integrator and accelerator for hospitals; CareCentrix, a participant in the post-acute and home care management sectors, and the Walgreens Health organic business that contracts with payors and providers to deliver clinical healthcare services to their members and members’ caregivers through both digital and physical channels.

The results of operations for reportable segments include procurement benefits. Corporate-related overhead costs are not allocated to reportable segments and are reported in “Corporate and Other”.

The following table reflects results of operations of the Company's reportable segments (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Sales:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	110,314	$	109,078	$	112,005
International	22,198		21,830		20,505
U.S. Healthcare	6,570		1,795		—
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	139,081	$	132,703	$	132,509

Adjusted operating income:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	3,689	$	5,029	$	5,019
International	935		726		466
U.S. Healthcare	(566)		(370)		(57)
Corporate and Other	(187)		(251)		(311)
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	3,871	$	5,133	$	5,117

Depreciation and amortization:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	1,362	$	1,415	$	1,513
International	328		355		399
U.S. Healthcare	560		211		1
Corporate and Other	8		9		10
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	2,257	$	1,990	$	1,923

Capital expenditures:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	1,421	$	1,207	$	1,030
International	308		295		243
U.S. Healthcare	375		218		34
Corporate and Other	13		15		5
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	2,117	$	1,734	$	1,312

The following table reconciles adjusted operating income to operating (loss) income (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Adjusted operating income (Non-GAAP measure):	$	3,871	$	5,133	$	5,117
Certain legal and regulatory accruals and settlements	(7,466)		(768)		(75)
Transformational cost management	(1,181)		(763)		(417)
Acquisition-related amortization	(1,126)		(855)		(523)
Acquisition-related costs	(323)		(223)		(54)
Impairment of intangible assets	(299)		(783)		(49)
Adjustments to equity earnings (loss) in Cencora	(211)		(218)		(1,645)
LIFO provision	(187)		(135)		(13)

Store damage and inventory loss insurance recovery	40		—		—
Operating (loss) income (GAAP measure)	$	(6,882)	$	1,387	$	2,342

No single customer accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s consolidated sales for any of the periods presented. Substantially all of our pharmacy sales are to customers covered by third-party payors (e.g., pharmacy benefit managers, insurance companies and governmental agencies) that agree to pay for all or a portion of a customer's eligible prescription purchases. In the U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment, three third-party payors accounted for approximately 33%, 31%, and 33% of the Company's consolidated sales in fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Geographic data for sales is as follows (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
United States	$	116,883	$	110,873	$	112,005
United Kingdom	8,984		8,894		8,298
Germany	11,211		11,178		10,472
Other	2,003		1,757		1,734
Sales	$	139,081	$	132,703	$	132,509

Geographic data for long-lived assets, defined as operating lease right-of-use assets and property, plant and equipment, is as follows (in millions):


	2023		2022 1
United States	$	28,951	$	28,710
United Kingdom	3,622		3,663
Other	681		614
Total long-lived assets	$	33,254	$	32,988

1.Fiscal 2022 data has been updated to conform to current period presentation

- Definition

The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 22
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 15
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-15

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 31
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-31

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph (d)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 42
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-42

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph (f)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 40
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-40

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//280/tableOfContent

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 26
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-26

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 34
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-34

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 41
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-41

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 21
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-21

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 21
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-21

Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph (e)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

+ Details

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

The following is a summary of net changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) by component and net of tax for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021 (in millions):


	Pension/post-retirement obligations		Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges		Net investment hedges		Unrealized gain (loss) on available for sale debt securities		Share of OCI of equity method investments		Cumulative translation adjustments		Total
Balance at August 31, 2020	$	(748)	$	(31)	$	(34)	$	—	$	(10)	$	(2,948)	$	(3,771)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	532		10		(6)		127		(24)		384		1,022
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(8)		17		—		—		—		(3)		6
Business disposal	(4)		—		—		—		—		795		792
Tax (provision) benefit	(132)		(6)		6		(31)		6		—		(157)
Net change in other comprehensive income (loss)	389		21		(1)		96		(18)		1,176		1,663
Balance at August 31, 2021	$	(359)	$	(10)	$	(35)	$	96	$	(29)	$	(1,772)	$	(2,109)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	278		6		327		451		(326)		(833)		(97)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(22)		3		—		(577)		31		—		(565)
Other	(6)		—		—		—		—		—		(6)
Tax (provision) benefit	(48)		(2)		(79)		32		70		—		(27)
Net change in other comprehensive income (loss)	203		7		248		(95)		(226)		(833)		(696)
Balance at August 31, 2022	$	(157)	$	(3)	$	213	$	1	$	(254)	$	(2,605)	$	(2,805)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification adjustments	(705)		(7)		(172)		(2)		6		379		(500)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(26)		4		—		—		158		(14)		121
Tax benefit (provision)	190		—		42		1		(42)		—		190
Net change in other comprehensive (loss) income	(541)		(2)		(130)		(2)		122		364		(189)
Balance at August 31, 2023	$	(698)	$	(5)	$	83	$	—	$	(132)	$	(2,240)	$	(2,993)

Supplementary financial information (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Supplementary Financial Information [Abstract]

Summary of quarterly results

Summary of Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

(in millions, except per share amounts)


	Quarter ended
	November		February		May		August		Fiscal year
Fiscal 2023
Sales	$	33,382	$	34,862	$	35,415	$	35,422	$	139,081
Gross profit	$	6,953	$	7,055	$	6,588	$	6,475	$	27,072
Net (loss) earnings attributable to Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	(3,721)	$	703	$	118	$	(180)	$	(3,080)

Net (loss) earnings per common share
Basic	$	(4.31)	$	0.81	$	0.14	$	(0.21)	$	(3.57)
Diluted	$	(4.31)	$	0.81	$	0.14	$	(0.21)	$	(3.57)

Cash dividends declared per common share	$	0.4800	$	0.4800	$	0.4800	$	0.4800	$	1.9200

Fiscal 2022
Sales	$	33,901	$	33,756	$	32,597	$	32,449	$	132,703
Gross profit	$	7,574	$	7,708	$	6,572	$	6,410	$	28,265
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	3,580	$	883	$	289	$	(415)	$	4,337

Net earnings (loss) per common share
Basic	$	4.13	$	1.02	$	0.33	$	(0.48)	$	5.02
Diluted	$	4.13	$	1.02	$	0.33	$	(0.48)	$	5.01

Cash dividends declared per common share	$	0.4775	$	0.4775	$	0.4775	$	0.4800	$	1.9125

Sales

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Sales

Sales The following table summarizes the Company’s sales by segment and by major source (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
U.S. Retail Pharmacy
Pharmacy	$	82,118	$	80,434	$	84,892
Retail	28,195		28,643		27,113
Total	$	110,314	$	109,078	$	112,005

International
Pharmacy	$	3,664	$	3,727	$	3,808
Retail	7,324		6,924		6,225
Wholesale	11,211		11,178		10,472
Total	$	22,198	$	21,830	$	20,505

U.S. Healthcare	$	6,570	$	1,795	$	—

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	139,081	$	132,703	$	132,509

- Definition

The entire disclosure of revenue from contract with customer to transfer good or service and to transfer nonfinancial asset. Includes, but is not limited to, disaggregation of revenue, credit loss recognized from contract with customer, judgment and change in judgment related to contract with customer, and asset recognized from cost incurred to obtain or fulfill contract with customer. Excludes insurance and lease contracts.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 9
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-9

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 10
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-10

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 15
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-15

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 12
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-12

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 12
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-12

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 12
-Subparagraph (c)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-12

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 12
-Subparagraph (d)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-12

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 12
-Subparagraph (e)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-12

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 606
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 13
-Subparagraph (b)(2)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479806/606-10-50-13

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Topic 606
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//606/tableOfContent

+ Details

Discontinued operations

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Discontinued operations

On June 1, 2021, the Company completed the sale of Alliance Healthcare, for total consideration of $6.9 billion, which included cash consideration of $6.7 billion, subject to net working capital and net cash adjustments, and 2 million shares of Cencora common stock (the “Alliance Healthcare Sale”).

The Company recorded a gain before currency translation adjustments of $1.1 billion and a net gain on disposal of $322 million. The gain on sale was presented as part of results of the discontinued operations. The following table shows the fair value of proceeds from the Alliance Healthcare Sale and net carrying value of the assets disposed (in billions):


	2021
Fair value of proceeds from disposition 1	$	6.9
Net assets disposed	5.8
Gain before currency translation adjustments	1.1
Currency translation loss released due to disposition	(0.8)
Net gain on disposal of discontinued operation 2	$	0.3

1.Includes base consideration of $6.275 billion adjusted for net working capital and net cash adjustments as set forth in the Share Purchase Agreement.

2.The Company recorded insignificant amount of tax expense due to utilization of capital losses.

As of August 31, 2021, Other current assets included a $98 million receivable for purchase price consideration due from Cencora that was subject to change upon the finalization of net working capital adjustments. In fiscal 2022, the Company finalized the net working capital adjustments and reduced the receivable by $38 million with a corresponding charge in Other income, net within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

The operating results of the Disposal Group are reported as discontinued operations as the disposition reflected a strategic shift that had a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results.

Results of discontinued operations for prior period were as follows (in millions):


	2021
Sales	$	16,070
Cost of sales	14,486
Gross profit	1,584
Selling, general and administrative expense 1	1,254
Operating income from discontinued operations	329
Other income, net 2	314
Interest expense, net	(23)
Earnings before income tax – discontinued operations	621
Income tax provision	78
Post-tax earnings from other equity method investments	15
Net earnings from discontinued operations	$	557

1.Includes $44 million of divestiture related costs incurred post completion of the Alliance Healthcare Sale.

2.Includes $322 million of gain on sale of discontinued operations.

Sales in prior years from the Disposal Group to the Company's continuing operations aggregate to (in millions):


	2021 1
Sales	$	1,385

1.Sales in fiscal 2021 until date of disposal.

The following table presents cash flows for discontinued operations in prior periods (in millions):


	2021
Cash used for operating activities - discontinued operations	$	(132)
Cash used for investing activities - discontinued operations	(58)

See Note 6. Equity method investments and Note 19. Related parties, for more information on the Company's equity method investment in Cencora and the Company's continuing involvement with Cencora.

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 29,366	$ 23,822	$ 21,136
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(176)	(728)	1,669
Ending balance	28,322	29,366	23,822
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(2,805)	(2,109)	(3,771)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	(500)	(97)	1,022
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	121	(565)	6
Other		(6)
Business disposal			792
Tax (provision) benefit	190	(27)	(157)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(189)	(696)	1,663
Ending balance	(2,993)	(2,805)	(2,109)
Pension/post-retirement obligations
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(157)	(359)	(748)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	(705)	278	532
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(26)	(22)	(8)
Other		(6)
Business disposal			(4)
Tax (provision) benefit	190	(48)	(132)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(541)	203	389
Ending balance	(698)	(157)	(359)
Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(3)	(10)	(31)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	(7)	6	10
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	4	3	17
Other		0
Business disposal			0
Tax (provision) benefit	0	(2)	(6)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(2)	7	21
Ending balance	(5)	(3)	(10)
Net investment hedges
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	213	(35)	(34)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	(172)	327	(6)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	0	0	0
Other		0
Business disposal			0
Tax (provision) benefit	42	(79)	6
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(130)	248	(1)
Ending balance	83	213	(35)
Unrealized gain (loss) on available for sale debt securities
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	1	96	0
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	(2)	451	127
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	0	(577)	0
Other		0
Business disposal			0
Tax (provision) benefit	1	32	(31)
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(2)	(95)	96
Ending balance	0	1	96
Share of OCI of equity method investments
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(254)	(29)	(10)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	6	(326)	(24)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	158	31	0
Other		0
Business disposal			0
Tax (provision) benefit	(42)	70	6
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	122	(226)	(18)
Ending balance	(132)	(254)	(29)
Cumulative translation adjustments
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(2,605)	(1,772)	(2,948)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	379	(833)	384
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(14)	0	(3)
Other		0
Business disposal			795
Tax (provision) benefit	0	0	0
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	364	(833)	1,176
Ending balance	$ (2,240)	$ (2,605)	$ (1,772)

Sales (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Disaggregation of revenue

The following table summarizes the Company’s sales by segment and by major source (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
U.S. Retail Pharmacy
Pharmacy	$	82,118	$	80,434	$	84,892
Retail	28,195		28,643		27,113
Total	$	110,314	$	109,078	$	112,005

International
Pharmacy	$	3,664	$	3,727	$	3,808
Retail	7,324		6,924		6,225
Wholesale	11,211		11,178		10,472
Total	$	22,198	$	21,830	$	20,505

U.S. Healthcare	$	6,570	$	1,795	$	—

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	139,081	$	132,703	$	132,509

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ (3,528)	$ 4,065	$ 2,512
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Pension/post-retirement obligations	(541)	203	389
Unrealized (loss) gain on cash flow hedges	(2)	7	21
Net investment hedges (loss) gain	(130)	248	(1)
Movement on available for sale debt securities	(2)	(95)	96
Share of other comprehensive income (loss) of equity method investments	122	(226)	(18)
Currency translation adjustments	377	(865)	1,182
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(176)	(728)	1,669
Total comprehensive (loss) income	(3,704)	3,337	4,181
Comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interests	(435)	(303)	(25)
Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$ (3,269)	$ 3,640	$ 4,205

Financial instruments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Notional amounts of derivative instruments outstanding

The notional amounts and fair value of derivative instruments outstanding were as follows (in millions):


August 31, 2023	Notional		Fair value		Location in Consolidated Balance Sheets
Derivatives designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	31	$	1	Other current assets

Cross currency interest rate swaps	650		28		Other non-current assets
Foreign currency forwards	805		2		Other current liabilities
Cross currency interest rate swaps	102		2		Other current liabilities
Foreign currency forwards	4		—		Other non-current liabilities



Derivatives not designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	3,139	$	6	Other current assets
Total return swap	168		1		Other current assets
Foreign currency forwards	817		2		Other current liabilities
Total return swap	26		1		Other current liabilities
Variable prepaid forward contracts	3,195		2,548		Other non-current liabilities


August 31, 2022	Notional		Fair value		Location in Consolidated Balance Sheets
Derivatives designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	448	$	19	Other current assets
Cross currency interest rate swaps	150		12		Other current assets
Cross currency interest rate swaps	750		83		Other non-current assets
Foreign currency forwards	3		—		Other non-current assets
Foreign currency forwards	221		1		Other current liabilities



Derivatives not designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	2,874	$	49	Other current assets

Foreign currency forwards	1,098		6		Other current liabilities
Total return swap	183		6		Other current liabilities

Schedule of variable prepaid forward transactions

The terms of the VPF transactions were as follows (in millions):


Transaction date	Shares pledged and maximum shares subject to forward sale	Prepayment amount		Forward settlement date
May 11, 2023	4.6	$	644	Fourth quarter, fiscal 2025
June 15, 2023	2.2	325		Third quarter, fiscal 2025
August 3, 2023	5.3	801		First quarter, fiscal 2026
August 4, 2023	5.3	797		Third quarter, fiscal 2026
	17.3	$	2,568

Gains and losses due to changes in fair value recognized in earnings


	Location in Consolidated Statements of Earnings	2023		2022		2021
Foreign currency forwards	Selling, general and administrative expense 1	$	—	$	—	$	(75)
Total return swap	Selling, general and administrative expense	12		(33)		58
Foreign currency forwards	Other income, net 1,2	(273)		523		(8)
Variable prepaid forward	Other income, net	19		—		—

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of pertinent information about a derivative or group of derivatives on a disaggregated basis, such as for individual instruments, or small groups of similar instruments. May include a combination of the type of instrument, risks being hedged, notional amount, hedge designation, related hedged item, inception date, maturity date, or other relevant item.

+ References + Details

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings (loss)	$ (3,528)	$ 4,065	$ 2,512
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	2,257	1,990	1,973
Deferred income taxes	(2,371)	(366)	233
Stock compensation expense	385	391	155
(Earnings) loss from equity method investments	(286)	(468)	498
Impairment of intangibles and long-lived assets	1,293	1,214	248
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	0	6	414
Gain on previously held investment interests	0	(2,576)	0
Gain on sale of equity method investments	(1,855)	(559)	(321)
Gain on sale-leaseback transactions	(925)	(619)	(367)
Other	(157)	326	(218)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, net	72	808	(1,451)
Inventories	287	(433)	165
Other current assets	(188)	(72)	(46)
Trade accounts payable	1,243	244	842
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	(561)	(138)	1,046
Income taxes	441	(51)	160
Accrued litigation obligations	6,378	0	0
Other non-current assets and liabilities	(228)	137	(288)
Net cash provided by operating activities	2,258	3,899	5,555
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property, plant and equipment	(2,117)	(1,734)	(1,379)
Proceeds from sale-leaseback transactions	1,767	1,308	856
Proceeds from sale of business, net of cash disposed	0	0	5,527
Proceeds from sale of other assets	4,495	1,334	453
Business, investment and asset acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(7,313)	(2,189)	(1,431)
Other	75	216	46
Net cash (used for) provided by investing activities	(3,094)	(1,064)	4,072
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in short-term debt with maturities of 3 months or less	(1)	(11)	(909)
Proceeds from debt	6,276	11,958	12,726
Payments of debt	(8,978)	(8,360)	(15,257)
Acquisition of non-controlling interests	(1,316)	(2,108)	0
Proceeds from issuance of non-controlling interests	2,725	0	0
Proceeds from variable prepaid forward	2,568	0	0
Treasury stock purchases	(150)	(187)	(110)
Proceeds related to employee stock plans, net	45	27	59
Cash dividends paid	(1,659)	(1,659)	(1,617)
Early debt extinguishment	0	(1,591)	(3,687)
Other	(396)	432	(241)
Net cash used for financing activities	(887)	(1,499)	(9,036)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash	20	(47)	(66)
Changes in cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash
Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash	(1,702)	1,288	525
Cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash at beginning of period	2,558	1,270	746
Cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash at end of period	$ 856	$ 2,558	$ 1,270

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Income Statement [Abstract]
Sales	$ 139,081	$ 132,703	$ 132,509
Cost of sales	112,009	104,437	104,442
Gross profit	27,072	28,265	28,067
Selling, general and administrative expenses	34,205	27,295	24,586
Equity earnings (loss) in Cencora	252	418	(1,139)
Operating (loss) income	(6,882)	1,387	2,342
Other income, net	2,043	2,998	558
(Loss) earnings before interest and income tax (benefit) provision	(4,839)	4,385	2,900
Interest expense, net	580	400	905
(Loss) earnings before income tax (benefit) provision	(5,419)	3,985	1,995
Income tax (benefit) provision	(1,858)	(30)	667
Post-tax earnings from other equity method investments	33	50	627
Net (loss) earnings from continuing operations	(3,528)	4,065	1,955
Net earnings from discontinued operations	0	0	557
Net (loss) earnings	(3,528)	4,065	2,512
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests - continuing operations	(448)	(271)	(39)
Net earnings attributable to non-controlling interests - discontinued operations	0	0	9
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent, Total	(3,080)	4,337	2,542
Net (loss) earnings attributable to Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.:
Continuing operations	(3,080)	4,337	1,994
Discontinued operations	$ 0	$ 0	$ 548
Basic net (loss) earnings per common share:
Continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ (3.57)	$ 5.02	$ 2.31
Discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	0	0.63
Total (in dollars per share)	(3.57)	5.02	2.94
Diluted net (loss) earnings per common share:
Continuing operations (in dollars per share)	(3.57)	5.01	2.30
Discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	0	0.63
Total (in dollars per share)	$ (3.57)	$ 5.01	$ 2.93
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	863.2	864.4	864.8
Diluted (in shares)	863.2	865.9	866.4

Fair value measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Money market funds 1	$	11	$	11	$	—	$	—
Cross currency interest rate swaps 2	28		—		28		—
Foreign currency forwards 3	6		—		6		—
Investments in equity securities 4	17		17		—		—
Investment in debt securities 5	15		—		15		—
Total return swaps	1		—		1		—
Liabilities:
Variable prepaid forward 6	$	2,548	$	—	$	—	$	2,548
Foreign currency forwards 3	5		—		5		—
Total return swaps	1		—		1		—
Cross currency interest rate swaps 2	2		—		2		—


	August 31, 2022		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Assets:
Money market funds 1	$	1,114	$	1,114	$	—	$	—
Investments in debt securities 5	130		—		130		—
Foreign currency forwards 3	69		—		69		—

Investments in equity securities 4	1		1		—		—
Cross currency interest rate swaps 2	96		—		96		—
Liabilities:
Total return swaps	$	6	$	—	$	6	$	—
Foreign currency forwards 3	7		—		7		—

1.Money market funds are valued at the closing price reported by the fund sponsor and classified as marketable securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

4.Fair values of quoted investments are based on current bid prices as of August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022.

5.Includes investments in Treasury debt securities.

Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation

The roll forward of the fair value of the VPF derivatives associated with the forward sale of shares of Cencora common stock, classified as Level 3, for fiscal 2023 is as follows (in millions):


	2023
Opening balance	$	—
VPF derivative additions	(2,568)
Unrealized gains recorded in Other income, net	19
Ending balance	$	(2,548)

Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of short-term borrowings

Debt consists of the following (all amounts are presented in millions of U.S. dollars and debt issuances are denominated in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Short-term debt

Credit facilities 1
November 2021 DDTL due February 2023	$	—	$	1,000
$850 million note issuance 1
0.9500% unsecured notes due 2023	850		—
Other 2	68		59
Total short-term debt	$	917	$	1,059

Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments


Long-term debt
Credit facilities 1
November 2021 DDTL due November 2023	$	—	$	1,998
November 2021 DDTL due November 2024	289		999
December 2022 DDTL due January 2026	999		—

$850 million note issuance 1
0.9500% unsecured notes due 2023	—		848
$1.5 billion note issuance 1
3.200% unsecured notes due 2030	498		498
4.100% unsecured notes due 2050	793		792
$6 billion note issuance 1
3.450% unsecured notes due 2026	1,444		1,443
4.650% unsecured notes due 2046	318		318
$8 billion note issuance 1
3.800% unsecured notes due 2024	1,156		1,155
4.500% unsecured notes due 2034	301		301
4.800% unsecured notes due 2044	869		869
£700 million note issuance 1
3.600% unsecured Pound Sterling notes due 2025	381		354
€750 million note issuance 1
2.125% unsecured Euro notes due 2026	814		752
$4 billion note issuance 3
4.400% unsecured notes due 2042	263		263
Other 2	20		26
Total long-term debt, less current portion	$	8,145	$	10,615

1.Notes and borrowings under credit facilities are unsecured and unsubordinated debt obligations of the Company and rank equally in right of payment with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of the Company from time to time outstanding.

2.Other debt represents a mix of fixed and variable rate debt with various maturities and working capital facilities denominated in various currencies.

3.Notes are senior debt obligations of Walgreen Co. and rank equally with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of Walgreen Co. On December 31, 2014, the Company fully and unconditionally guaranteed the outstanding notes on an unsecured and unsubordinated basis. The guarantee, for so long as it is in place, is an unsecured, unsubordinated debt obligation of the Company and will rank equally in right of payment with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of the Company.

Schedule of future maturities of long-term debt

At August 31, 2023, the future maturities of short-term and long-term debt, excluding debt discounts, issuance costs and finance lease obligations (See Note 5. Leases, for the future lease payments), consisted of the following (in millions):


	Amount
2024	$	918
2025	1,451
2026	2,830
2027	815
2028	3
Later	3,074
Total estimated future maturities	$	9,092

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of long-debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. These are debt arrangements that originally required repayment more than twelve months after issuance or greater than the normal operating cycle of the entity, if longer.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 55
-Paragraph 69B
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69B

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 55
-Paragraph 69E
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481568/470-20-55-69E

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 3
-Subparagraph (SX 210.12-04(a))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-3

Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Section 45
-Paragraph 2
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482925/835-30-45-2

Reference 5: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
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-Section 45
-Paragraph 1A
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482925/835-30-45-1A

Reference 6: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Paragraph 3
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481112/505-10-50-3

Reference 7: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
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-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22)
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Reference 8: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482949/835-30-55-8

Reference 9: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480848/942-470-50-3

Reference 10: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481112/505-10-50-8

Reference 11: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
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Reference 12: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
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-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481112/505-10-50-7

+ Details

Discontinued operations - schedules of results from discontinued operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 01, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract]
Net earnings from discontinued operations		$ 0	$ 0	$ 557
Discontinued operations, disposed of by sale \| Alliance Healthcare
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract]
Sales			16,070
Cost of sales			14,486
Gross profit			1,584
Selling, general and administrative expense			1,254
Operating income from discontinued operations			329
Other income (expense)			314
Interest expense, net			(23)
Earnings before income tax – discontinued operations			621
Income tax provision			78
Post tax earnings from other equity method investments			15
Net earnings from discontinued operations			557
Divestiture related costs	$ 44
Gain on disposition of business	$ 322
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Sales			16,070
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations [Abstract]
Cash used for operating activities - discontinued operations			(132)
Cash used for investing activities - discontinued operations			(58)
Discontinued operations, disposed of by sale \| Alliance Healthcare \| Continuing Operations
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract]
Sales			1,385
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Sales			$ 1,385

Acquisitions and other Investments - schedule of purchase price allocation and identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed - Care Centrix (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2021
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Goodwill	$ 22,280	$ 28,187	$ 12,421
CareCentrix, Inc.
Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration	327
Contingent consideration	4
Fair value of equity consideration	66
Fair value of non-controlling interest	217
Total	614
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets	358
Intangible assets	426
Liabilities	(680)
Total identifiable net assets	104
Goodwill	$ 509

Retirement benefits - assumptions (Details) - Pension Plan	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract]
Discount rate	5.22%	4.20%
Rate of compensation increase	3.73%	3.04%
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate	4.20%	1.57%
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.90%	2.90%
Rate of compensation increase	3.04%	2.80%

Fair value measurements (Details) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2022 USD ($)
Liabilities [Abstract]
Carrying value of long-term notes outstanding	$ 9,092
Carrying Value
Liabilities [Abstract]
Carrying value of long-term notes outstanding	7,700
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement
Liabilities [Abstract]
Fair value of long-term notes outstanding	$ 6,800
Level 3 \| Measurement Input, Price Volatility \| Minimum \| Lower Strike Price
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability, measurement input	0.232
Level 3 \| Measurement Input, Price Volatility \| Minimum \| Upper Strike Price
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability, measurement input	0.181
Level 3 \| Measurement Input, Price Volatility \| Maximum \| Lower Strike Price
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability, measurement input	0.247
Level 3 \| Measurement Input, Price Volatility \| Maximum \| Upper Strike Price
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability, measurement input	0.191
Recurring
Assets [Abstract]
Money market funds	$ 11	$ 1,114
Investment in equity securities	17	1
Investments in debt securities	15	130
Recurring \| Level 1
Assets [Abstract]
Money market funds	11	1,114
Investment in equity securities	17	1
Investments in debt securities	0	0
Recurring \| Level 2
Assets [Abstract]
Money market funds	0	0
Investment in equity securities	0	0
Investments in debt securities	15	130
Recurring \| Level 3
Assets [Abstract]
Money market funds	0	0
Investment in equity securities	0	0
Investments in debt securities	0	0
Recurring \| Foreign currency forwards
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	6	69
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	5	7
Recurring \| Foreign currency forwards \| Level 1
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0	0
Recurring \| Foreign currency forwards \| Level 2
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	6	69
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	5	7
Recurring \| Foreign currency forwards \| Level 3
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0	0
Recurring \| Cross currency interest rate swaps
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	28	96
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	2
Recurring \| Cross currency interest rate swaps \| Level 1
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0
Recurring \| Cross currency interest rate swaps \| Level 2
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	28	96
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	2
Recurring \| Cross currency interest rate swaps \| Level 3
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	0	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0
Recurring \| Total return swaps
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	1
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	1	6
Recurring \| Total return swaps \| Level 1
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0	0
Recurring \| Total return swaps \| Level 2
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	1
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	1	6
Recurring \| Total return swaps \| Level 3
Assets [Abstract]
Derivative asset	0
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0	$ 0
Recurring \| Variable prepaid forward
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	2,548
Recurring \| Variable prepaid forward \| Level 1
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0
Recurring \| Variable prepaid forward \| Level 2
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	0
Recurring \| Variable prepaid forward \| Level 3
Liabilities [Abstract]
Derivative liability	$ 2,548

Goodwill and other intangible assets (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of goodwill

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment consist of the following activity (in millions):


Goodwill roll forward:	U.S. Retail Pharmacy		International		U.S. Healthcare		Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
August 31, 2021	$	10,947	$	1,474	$	—	$	12,421
Acquisitions 1	—		—		10,040		10,040
Currency translation adjustments and other	—		(181)		—		(181)
August 31, 2022	$	10,947	$	1,293	$	10,040	$	22,280
Acquisitions 2	$	—	$	—	$	5,588	$	5,588
Adjustments 3	—		—		252		252
Currency translation adjustments and other	—		85		(18)		67
August 31, 2023	$	10,947	$	1,378	$	15,863	$	28,187

2.In fiscal 2023, additions to goodwill primarily relate to VillageMD's acquisition of Summit.

3.Includes measurement period adjustments related to the acquisitions of VillageMD, Shields and CareCentrix. See Note 3. Acquisitions and other investments.

Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets by major class

The carrying amount and accumulated amortization of intangible assets consist of the following (in millions):


Intangible assets:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Gross amortizable intangible assets
Customer relationships and loyalty card holders 1	$	4,658	$	4,619
Provider networks	3,202		1,247
Trade names and trademarks	2,300		760
Developed technology	469		436
Others 2	137		93
Total gross amortizable intangible assets	$	10,767	$	7,155

Accumulated amortization
Customer relationships and loyalty card holders 1	$	1,784	$	1,548
Provider networks	233		64
Trade names and trademarks	401		246
Developed technology	143		56
Others 2	48		39
Total accumulated amortization	2,609		1,953
Total amortizable intangible assets, net	$	8,158	$	5,202

Indefinite-lived intangible assets
Trade names and trademarks	$	4,650	$	4,319
Pharmacy licenses	828		1,209
Total indefinite-lived intangible assets	$	5,477	$	5,528

Total intangible assets, net	$	13,635	$	10,730

1Includes purchased prescription files.

2Includes certain reclassifications to conform to current period presentation.

Schedule of finite-lived intangible assets, future amortization expense

Estimated future annual amortization expense for the next five fiscal years for intangible assets recorded at August 31, 2023 is as follows (in millions):


	2024		2025		2026		2027		2028
Estimated annual amortization expense	$	930	$	884	$	852	$	773	$	697

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of goodwill by reportable segment and in total which includes a rollforward schedule.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 55
-Paragraph 24
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482548/350-20-55-24

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (h)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
-Topic 350
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
-Topic 350
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1
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-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
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Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
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Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
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Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-1A

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-Section 50
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-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482573/350-20-50-2

+ Details

Retirement benefits (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Retirement Benefits [Abstract]

Schedule of defined benefit plans using fair value hierarchy

The following tables present classes of defined benefit pension plan assets by fair value hierarchy (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Equity securities:
Equity securities 1	$	264	$	—	$	264	$	—

Debt securities:
Fixed interest government bonds 2	1,044		848		196		—
Index linked government bonds 2	1,364		1,364		—		—
Corporate bonds 3	1,214		—		1,214		—

Real estate:
Real estate 4	466		—		—		466

Other:
Other investments, net 5	1,242		142		338		761

Total	$	5,594	$	2,354	$	2,012	$	1,228


	August 31, 2022		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Equity securities:
Equity securities 1	$	967	$	—	$	967	$	—

Debt securities:
Fixed interest government bonds 2	688		402		285		—
Index linked government bonds 2	1,785		1,785		—		—
Corporate bonds 3	1,980		—		1,980		—

Real estate:
Real estate 4	548		—		—		548

Other:
Other investments, net 5	636		10		(87)		713

Total	$	6,603	$	2,197	$	3,145	$	1,261

3Includes bonds issued by corporations in both segregated and commingled funds

Components of net periodic benefit costs

Components of net periodic pension costs for the defined benefit pension plans and cumulative pre-tax amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows (in millions):


	Boots and other pension plans
	2023		2022		2021
Service costs (Selling, general and administrative expenses)	$	4	$	5	$	6
Interest costs (Other income, net)	264		149		139
Expected returns on plan assets/other (Other income, net)	(340)		(280)		(332)
Total net periodic pension income	$	(72)	$	(126)	$	(188)

Net actuarial loss (gain)	$	730	$	(251)	$	(506)
Prior service cost	(1)		(1)		(1)
Total pre-tax comprehensive loss (income)	$	729	$	(252)	$	(507)

Accumulated and projected benefit obligations

Change in benefit obligations for the defined benefit pension plans (in millions):


	2023		2022
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	5,967	$	10,206
Service costs	4		5
Interest costs	264		149

Net actuarial gain	(897)		(3,042)
Benefits paid	(286)		(304)
Currency translation adjustments	463		(1,047)
Benefit obligation at end of year	$	5,515	$	5,967

Changes in fair value of plan assets

Change in plan assets for the defined benefit pension plans (in millions):


	2023		2022
Plan assets at fair value at beginning of year	$	6,603	$	10,475
Employer contributions	40		45
Benefits paid	(286)		(304)
Return on assets	(1,275)		(2,477)
Currency translation adjustments	511		(1,136)
Plan assets at fair value at end of year	$	5,594	$	6,603

Amounts recognized in balance sheet

Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Other non-current assets	$	306	$	863
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	(10)		(9)
Other non-current liabilities	(216)		(217)
Net asset recognized at end of year	$	80	$	637

Schedule of projected benefit obligation

The following tables present classes of defined benefit pension plan assets by fair value hierarchy (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Equity securities:
Equity securities 1	$	264	$	—	$	264	$	—

Debt securities:
Fixed interest government bonds 2	1,044		848		196		—
Index linked government bonds 2	1,364		1,364		—		—
Corporate bonds 3	1,214		—		1,214		—

Real estate:
Real estate 4	466		—		—		466

Other:
Other investments, net 5	1,242		142		338		761

Total	$	5,594	$	2,354	$	2,012	$	1,228


	August 31, 2022		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
Equity securities:
Equity securities 1	$	967	$	—	$	967	$	—

Debt securities:
Fixed interest government bonds 2	688		402		285		—
Index linked government bonds 2	1,785		1,785		—		—
Corporate bonds 3	1,980		—		1,980		—

Real estate:
Real estate 4	548		—		—		548

Other:
Other investments, net 5	636		10		(87)		713

Total	$	6,603	$	2,197	$	3,145	$	1,261

3Includes bonds issued by corporations in both segregated and commingled funds

Schedule of projected and accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Projected benefit obligation	$	5,515	$	5,967
Accumulated benefit obligation	5,503		5,961
Fair value of plan assets 1	5,594		6,603

1 Represents plan assets of The Boots plan, the Company's only funded defined benefit pension plan.

Estimated future benefit payments

Estimated future benefit payments for the next 10 years from defined benefit pension plans to participants are as follows (in millions):


	Estimated future benefit payments
2024	$	324
2025	305
2026	317
2027	326
2028	337
2029-2033	1,798

Schedule of assumptions used

The assumptions used in accounting for the defined benefit pension plans were as follows:


	2023		2022
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate	5.22	%	4.20	%
Rate of compensation increase	3.73	%	3.04	%

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate	4.20	%	1.57	%
Expected long-term return on plan assets	4.90	%	2.90	%
Rate of compensation increase	3.04	%	2.80	%

Supplementary financial information

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Supplementary Financial Information [Abstract]

Supplementary financial information

Summary of Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

(in millions, except per share amounts)


	Quarter ended
	November		February		May		August		Fiscal year
Fiscal 2023
Sales	$	33,382	$	34,862	$	35,415	$	35,422	$	139,081
Gross profit	$	6,953	$	7,055	$	6,588	$	6,475	$	27,072
Net (loss) earnings attributable to Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	(3,721)	$	703	$	118	$	(180)	$	(3,080)

Net (loss) earnings per common share
Basic	$	(4.31)	$	0.81	$	0.14	$	(0.21)	$	(3.57)
Diluted	$	(4.31)	$	0.81	$	0.14	$	(0.21)	$	(3.57)

Cash dividends declared per common share	$	0.4800	$	0.4800	$	0.4800	$	0.4800	$	1.9200

Fiscal 2022
Sales	$	33,901	$	33,756	$	32,597	$	32,449	$	132,703
Gross profit	$	7,574	$	7,708	$	6,572	$	6,410	$	28,265
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	3,580	$	883	$	289	$	(415)	$	4,337

Net earnings (loss) per common share
Basic	$	4.13	$	1.02	$	0.33	$	(0.48)	$	5.02
Diluted	$	4.13	$	1.02	$	0.33	$	(0.48)	$	5.01

Cash dividends declared per common share	$	0.4775	$	0.4775	$	0.4775	$	0.4800	$	1.9125

Financial instruments - variable prepaid forward transactions (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Millions					12 Months Ended
	Aug. 04, 2023	Aug. 03, 2023	Jun. 15, 2023	May 11, 2023	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Proceeds from variable prepaid forward					$ 2,568	$ 0	$ 0
Derivatives not designated as hedges:
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Pledged collateral (in shares)					17,300
Proceeds from variable prepaid forward					$ 2,568
Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Variable Prepaid Forward Due Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2025
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Pledged collateral (in shares)				4,600
Proceeds from variable prepaid forward				$ 644
Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Variable Prepaid Forward Due Third Quarter Fiscal 2025
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Pledged collateral (in shares)			2,200
Proceeds from variable prepaid forward			$ 325
Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Variable Prepaid Forward Due First Quarter Fiscal 2026
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Pledged collateral (in shares)		5,300
Proceeds from variable prepaid forward		$ 801
Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Variable Prepaid Forward Due Third Quarter Fiscal 2026
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Pledged collateral (in shares)	5,300
Proceeds from variable prepaid forward	$ 797

Acquisitions and other Investments - schedule of purchase price allocation and identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed - Summit (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Jan. 03, 2023	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Goodwill		$ 28,187	$ 22,280	$ 12,421
Summit Heath-CityMD
Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration	$ 4,778
Deferred consideration	100
Summit debt paid at closing	1,963
Fair value of equity consideration	1,971
Fair value of non-controlling interest	13
Total	8,825
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Cash and cash equivalents	69
Accounts receivable, net	382
Property, plant and equipment	607
Intangible assets	3,359
Operating lease right-of-use assets	756
Other assets	173
Operating lease obligations	(773)
Deferred tax liability	(737)
Other liabilities	(446)
Total identifiable net assets	3,390
Goodwill	$ 5,436

Debt - long-term debt by future maturity (Details) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)
Long Term Debt by Future Maturity [Abstract]
2024	$ 918
2025	1,451
2026	2,830
2027	815
2028	3
Later	3,074
Total estimated future maturities	$ 9,092

- Definition

Amount, after deduction of unamortized premium (discount) and debt issuance cost, of long-term debt. Excludes lease obligation.

+ References + Details

Equity method investments

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]

Equity method investments

Equity method investments as of August 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows (in millions, except percentages):


	2023			2022
	Carrying value		Ownership percentage	Carrying value		Ownership percentage
Cencora	$	2,534	16%	$	3,916	25%
Others	963		8% - 50%	1,579		8% - 50%
Total	$	3,497		$	5,495

Cencora investment

As of August 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company owned 31.8 million and 52.9 million shares of Cencora common stock, respectively, representing approximately 15.9% and 25.4% of its outstanding common stock based on the share count publicly reported by Cencora in its most recent filings with the SEC.

In fiscal 2023 and 2022, the Company sold shares of Cencora common stock for total consideration of approximately $3.4 billion and $900 million, respectively. These transactions resulted in the Company recording pre-tax gains of $1.6 billion and $417 million, respectively, in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings, including $160 million and $32 million of losses, respectively, reclassified from within Accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

As of August 31, 2023, the Company has pledged 17.3 million shares of Cencora common stock as collateral upon entering into variable prepaid forward (“VPF”) transactions. See Note 9. Financial instruments for further information.

The Company accounts for its equity investment in Cencora using the equity method of accounting, with the net earnings (loss) attributable to the Company’s investment being classified within the operating income of its U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment. Due to the timing and availability of financial information of Cencora, the Company accounts for this equity method investment on a financial reporting lag of two months. Equity earnings (loss) in Cencora are reported as a separate line in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. In fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company recognized equity earnings (losses) in Cencora of $252 million, $418 million and $(1.1) billion, respectively. The equity losses for fiscal 2021 were primarily due to Cencora's recognition of a loss of $5.6 billion, net of tax, related to its ongoing opioid litigation in its financial statements for the three months ended September 30, 2020.

The Level 1 fair market value of the Company’s equity investment in Cencora common stock at August 31, 2023 and 2022 was $5.6 billion and $7.7 billion, respectively. As of August 31, 2023, the carrying value of the Company’s investment in Cencora exceeded its proportionate share of the net assets of Cencora by $2.4 billion. This premium of $2.4 billion was recognized as part of the carrying value in the Company’s equity investment in Cencora. The difference is primarily related to goodwill and the fair value of Cencora intangible assets.

Option Care Health investment

In fiscal 2021, the Company recorded a gain of $290 million in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings, due to the partial sale of ownership interest in Option Care Health by the Company's then equity method investee HC Group Holdings. As a result of these sales HC Group Holdings lost the ability to control Option Care Health and, therefore, deconsolidated Option Care Health in its financial statements. As a result of this deconsolidation, HC Group Holdings recognized a gain of $1.2 billion and the Company recorded its share of equity earnings in HC Group Holdings of $576 million in Post-tax earnings from other equity method investments.

During fiscal 2022, the Company sold additional shares of Option Care Health common stock for total consideration of approximately $363 million. During fiscal 2023, the Company sold its remaining investment in Option Care Health for total consideration of approximately $798 million. These transactions resulted in the Company recording pre-tax gains of $186 million and $145 million, respectively, in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. As of May 31, 2023, the Company no longer exercised significant influence over the operating and financial policies of Option Care Health and reclassified its investment from an equity method investment to an investment in equity securities at fair value, recognizing a pre-tax gain of $76 million included in Other income, net within the Consolidated Statement of Earnings.

Other investments

At August 31, 2023, the Company’s other equity method investments primarily include its U.S. investment in BrightSpring Health Services, and the Company’s investments in China in Sinopharm Medicine Holding Guoda Drugstores Co., Ltd and Nanjing Pharmaceutical Company Limited. On December 15, 2022, the Company sold its ownership interest in Guangzhou Pharmaceuticals Corporation for total consideration of approximately $150 million.

In fiscal 2022, the Company acquired majority equity interests in VillageMD and Shields, both formerly accounted for as equity method investments. The Company accounted for these acquisitions as business combinations resulting in the remeasurement of its previously held minority equity interests and convertible debt securities at fair value resulting in pre-tax gains of $2.2 billion and $402 million for VillageMD and Shields, respectively, recognized in Other income, net in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. As a result of these transactions, the Company consolidated VillageMD and Shields within the U.S. Healthcare segment in its financial statements. In fiscal 2022, the Company recognized an other-than-temporary impairment of $124 million related to an equity method investment in China. The impairment was derived using Level 3 inputs, including financial projections and market multiples of comparable companies.

Summarized financial information

Summarized financial information for the Company’s equity method investments in aggregate is as follows:

Balance sheet (in millions)


	August 31,
	2023		2022
Current assets	$	48,185	$	50,985
Non-current assets	25,618		26,497
Current liabilities	52,093		52,083
Non-current liabilities	17,999		19,712
Shareholders’ equity 1	3,711		5,687

1Shareholders’ equity at August 31, 2023 and 2022 includes $520 million and $564 million, respectively, related to non-controlling interests.

Statements of earnings (in millions)



	2023		2022		2021
Sales	$	279,118	$	268,189	$	232,719
Gross profit	12,457		13,248		10,889
Net earnings (loss)	1,799		1,988		(3,475)
Share of earnings (loss) from equity method investments	286		468		(512)

The summarized financial information for equity method investments has been included on an aggregated basis for all investments as reported at the end of each fiscal year end.

Sales (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
Sales (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	May 31, 2023	Feb. 28, 2023	Nov. 30, 2022	Aug. 31, 2022	May 31, 2022	Feb. 28, 2022	Nov. 30, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales	$ 35,422	$ 35,415	$ 34,862	$ 33,382	$ 32,449	$ 32,597	$ 33,756	$ 33,901	$ 139,081	$ 132,703	$ 132,509
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Retail Pharmacy
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									110,314	109,078	112,005
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Retail Pharmacy \| Pharmacy
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									82,118	80,434	84,892
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Retail Pharmacy \| Retail
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									28,195	28,643	27,113
Reportable Segments \| International
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									22,198	21,830	20,505
Reportable Segments \| International \| Pharmacy
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									3,664	3,727	3,808
Reportable Segments \| International \| Retail
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									7,324	6,924	6,225
Reportable Segments \| International \| Wholesale
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									11,211	11,178	10,472
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Healthcare
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Sales									$ 6,570	$ 1,795	$ 0

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References + Details

- Definition

+ References

+ Details

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]

Components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

The following is a summary of net changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”) by component and net of tax for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021 (in millions):


	Pension/post-retirement obligations		Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges		Net investment hedges		Unrealized gain (loss) on available for sale debt securities		Share of OCI of equity method investments		Cumulative translation adjustments		Total
Balance at August 31, 2020	$	(748)	$	(31)	$	(34)	$	—	$	(10)	$	(2,948)	$	(3,771)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	532		10		(6)		127		(24)		384		1,022
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(8)		17		—		—		—		(3)		6
Business disposal	(4)		—		—		—		—		795		792
Tax (provision) benefit	(132)		(6)		6		(31)		6		—		(157)
Net change in other comprehensive income (loss)	389		21		(1)		96		(18)		1,176		1,663
Balance at August 31, 2021	$	(359)	$	(10)	$	(35)	$	96	$	(29)	$	(1,772)	$	(2,109)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification adjustments	278		6		327		451		(326)		(833)		(97)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(22)		3		—		(577)		31		—		(565)
Other	(6)		—		—		—		—		—		(6)
Tax (provision) benefit	(48)		(2)		(79)		32		70		—		(27)
Net change in other comprehensive income (loss)	203		7		248		(95)		(226)		(833)		(696)
Balance at August 31, 2022	$	(157)	$	(3)	$	213	$	1	$	(254)	$	(2,605)	$	(2,805)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification adjustments	(705)		(7)		(172)		(2)		6		379		(500)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(26)		4		—		—		158		(14)		121
Tax benefit (provision)	190		—		42		1		(42)		—		190
Net change in other comprehensive (loss) income	(541)		(2)		(130)		(2)		122		364		(189)
Balance at August 31, 2023	$	(698)	$	(5)	$	83	$	—	$	(132)	$	(2,240)	$	(2,993)

Debt - narrative (Details) - USD ($)							12 Months Ended
Debt - narrative (Details) - USD ($)	Aug. 09, 2023	Mar. 02, 2023	Dec. 19, 2022	Jun. 17, 2022	Nov. 17, 2021	Nov. 15, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Interest paid, net of capitalized interest							$ 606,000,000	$ 420,000,000	$ 916,000,000
Loss on early extinguishment of debt							0	6,000,000	414,000,000
Commercial paper
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commercial paper, amount outstanding							$ 0	0
Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt to total capitalization ratio							0.60
Unsecured notes
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Loss on early extinguishment of debt								6,000,000	$ 387,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 0.9500% notes payable, due 2023
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount					$ 850,000,000		$ 850,000,000
Stated interest rate (as a percent)					95.00%		0.95%
Debt instrument, redemption price, percentage					100.00%
Long term debt							$ 0	$ 848,000,000
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, due August 2026
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 2,250,000,000
Debt term	3 years
Borrowings outstanding							0
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, due August 2026 \| Minimum \| SOFR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	0.75%
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, due August 2026 \| Maximum \| SOFR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	1.50%
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, due August 2023
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 1,000,000,000
Debt term	3 years
Borrowings outstanding							0
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, due August 2023 \| SOFR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate	1.125%
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, 364 day term, due 2024
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount		$ 900,000,000
Debt term		364 days
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, 364 day term, due 2024 \| Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate		0.80%
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, 364 day term, due 2024 \| Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate		1.10%
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, 3 year term, due 2026
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount			$ 1,000,000,000
Borrowings outstanding							1,000,000,000
Credit facilities \| Unsecured credit facility, 3 year term, due 2026 \| SOFR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate			1.125%
Credit facilities \| June 17, 2022 revolving credit facility, five-year facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount				$ 3,500,000,000
Debt term				5 years
Credit facilities \| June 17, 2022 revolving credit facility, 18-month facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount				$ 1,500,000,000
Debt term				18 months
Borrowings outstanding							0
Credit facilities \| June 17, 2022 revolving credit facility, 18-month facility \| Minimum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate				0.80%
Credit facilities \| June 17, 2022 revolving credit facility, 18-month facility \| Maximum
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate				1.50%
Credit facilities \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount						$ 5,000,000,000
Credit facilities \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility \| Term loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long term debt							$ 289,000,000
Credit facilities \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility, 364-day facility \| Term loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount						$ 2,000,000,000
Debt term						364 days
Credit facilities \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility, 364-day facility \| Term loan \| Eurodollar
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate						0.75%
Credit facilities \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility, two-year facility \| Term loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt term						2 years
Credit facilities \| Term loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount						$ 3,000,000,000
Credit facilities \| Term loan \| June 17, 2022 revolving credit facility, five-year facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt term				5 years
Credit facilities \| Term loan \| June 17, 2022 revolving credit facility, 18-month facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt term				18 months
Credit facilities \| Term loan \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility, two-year facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount						$ 2,000,000,000
Debt term						2 years
Credit facilities \| Term loan \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility, two-year facility \| Eurodollar
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate						0.88%
Credit facilities \| Term loan \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility, three-year facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Face amount						$ 1,000,000,000
Debt term						3 years
Credit facilities \| Term loan \| Delayed draw term loan credit facility, three-year facility \| SOFR
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt instrument, basis spread on variable rate						1.03%

Retirement benefits - fair value hierarchy (Details) - Pension Plan - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	$ 5,594	$ 6,603	$ 10,475
Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	2,354	2,197
Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	2,012	3,145
Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	1,228	1,261
Equity securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	264	967
Equity securities \| Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Equity securities \| Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	264	967
Equity securities \| Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Fixed interest government bonds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	1,044	688
Fixed interest government bonds \| Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	848	402
Fixed interest government bonds \| Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	196	285
Fixed interest government bonds \| Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Index linked government bonds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	1,364	1,785
Index linked government bonds \| Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	1,364	1,785
Index linked government bonds \| Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Index linked government bonds \| Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Corporate bonds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	1,214	1,980
Corporate bonds \| Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Corporate bonds \| Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	1,214	1,980
Corporate bonds \| Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Real estate
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	466	548
Real estate \| Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Real estate \| Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	0	0
Real estate \| Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	466	548
Other investments, net
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	1,242	636
Other investments, net \| Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	142	10
Other investments, net \| Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	338	(87)
Other investments, net \| Level 3
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Amount of defined benefit pension plan assets investment of fair market value	$ 761	$ 713

Acquisitions and other Investments - schedule of purchase price allocation and identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed - Village MD (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Nov. 24, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Goodwill		$ 28,187	$ 22,280	$ 12,421
VillageMD
Purchase price allocation:
Total purchase price	$ 5,200
Less: purchase price for issuance of new preferred units at fair value	(2,300)
Net consideration	2,900
Fair value of equity consideration	683
Fair value of previously held equity and debt	3,211
Fair value of non-controlling interest	3,257
Total	10,051
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets	634
Intangible assets	1,621
Liabilities	(370)
Total identifiable net assets	1,885
Goodwill	$ 8,166

Related parties (Details) - Related Party - Cencora - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Purchases, net	$ 65,173	$ 62,174	$ 62,513
Trade accounts payable, net of receivables	$ 7,814	$ 6,915	$ 6,589

Financial instruments - derivative instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Foreign currency forwards \| Derivatives designated as hedges: \| Other current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, assets	$ 31	$ 448
Fair value, assets	$ 1	$ 19
Derivative Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Other current assets	Other current assets
Foreign currency forwards \| Derivatives designated as hedges: \| Other non-current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, assets		$ 3
Fair value, assets		$ 0
Derivative Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]		Other non-current assets
Foreign currency forwards \| Derivatives designated as hedges: \| Other current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, liabilities	$ 805	$ 221
Fair value, liabilities	$ 2	$ 1
Derivative Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Accrued expenses and other liabilities	Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Foreign currency forwards \| Derivatives designated as hedges: \| Other non-current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, liabilities	$ 4
Fair value, liabilities	$ 0
Derivative Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Foreign currency forwards \| Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Other current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, assets	$ 3,139	$ 2,874
Fair value, assets	$ 6	$ 49
Derivative Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Other current assets	Other current assets
Foreign currency forwards \| Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Other current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, liabilities	$ 817	$ 1,098
Fair value, liabilities	$ 2	$ 6
Derivative Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Accrued expenses and other liabilities	Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Cross currency interest rate swaps \| Derivatives designated as hedges: \| Other current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, assets		$ 150
Fair value, assets		$ 12
Derivative Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]		Other current assets
Cross currency interest rate swaps \| Derivatives designated as hedges: \| Other non-current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, assets	$ 650	$ 750
Fair value, assets	$ 28	$ 83
Derivative Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Other non-current assets	Other non-current assets
Cross currency interest rate swaps \| Derivatives designated as hedges: \| Other current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, liabilities	$ 102
Fair value, liabilities	$ 2
Derivative Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Total return swaps \| Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Other current assets
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, assets	$ 168
Fair value, assets	$ 1
Derivative Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Other current assets
Total return swaps \| Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Other current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, liabilities	$ 26	$ 183
Fair value, liabilities	$ 1	$ 6
Derivative Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Accrued expenses and other liabilities	Accrued expenses and other liabilities
Variable prepaid forward \| Derivatives not designated as hedges: \| Other non-current liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional amount, liabilities	$ 3,195
Fair value, liabilities	$ 2,548
Derivative Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible Enumeration]	Accrued expenses and other liabilities

Retirement benefits - narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Reduction in benefit obligation due to potential discount rate decrease	$ 159
Reduction in benefit obligation due to potential expected return decrease	14
Cash contributions to defined benefit pension plans	18
Postretirement Health Benefit Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined benefit plan obligation	113	$ 122
Expected benefit to be paid next fiscal year	8
United States
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Profit sharing provision expense	239	234	$ 221
Contributions to profit sharing	241	236	222
Foreign Plan
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cost recognized in the consolidated condensed statements of earnings	$ 83	$ 90	$ 101

Income taxes

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income taxes

Income taxesThe components of (Loss) earnings before income tax (benefit) provision were (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
U.S.	$	(7,553)	$	2,998	$	61
Non–U.S.	2,134		987		1,934
Total	$	(5,419)	$	3,985	$	1,995

The Income tax (benefit) provision consists of the following (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Current provision
Federal	$	242	$	39	$	79
State	(13)		37		115
Non–U.S.	283		260		234
	$	512	$	336	$	428
Deferred provision

Federal	$	(1,886)	$	(78)	$	(10)
State	(364)		(20)		(46)
Non–U.S. – tax law change	—		—		344
Non–U.S. – excluding tax law change	(120)		(268)		(49)
	(2,370)		(366)		239
Income tax (benefit) provision	$	(1,858)	$	(30)	$	667

The Company's effective tax rate for fiscal 2023 and 2022 was a benefit of 34.3% and 0.8%, respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate benefit was primarily attributable to a reduction in the valuation allowance, changes to deferred taxes as a result of internal legal entity restructuring, and tax benefits related to a measurement change in prior year tax positions. These benefits were partially offset by the impact of certain nondeductible charges for opioid-related claims and litigation settlements recorded during fiscal 2023. The Company recognized a tax benefit due to the reduction of a valuation allowance previously recorded against deferred tax assets related to capital loss carryforwards. The reduction is primarily due to capital loss carryforwards utilized in the current year against capital gains recognized on the sale of shares in Cencora and other forecasted capital gains. See Note 6. Equity method investments for further information.

The difference between the statutory federal income tax rate and the effective tax rate is as follows:


	2023		2022		2021
Federal statutory rate	21.0	%	21.0	%	21.0	%
State income taxes, net of federal benefit	5.8		0.4		3.5
Foreign income taxed at non-U.S. rates	(3.0)		(3.0)		(4.4)
Non-taxable income	2.5		(2.7)		(5.0)
Non-deductible expenses	(4.9)		3.0		0.3
Tax law changes	—		—		17.3
Change in valuation allowance 1	6.0		(9.0)		(4.7)
Tax benefits from restructuring	1.1		—		(4.2)
Tax expense on non-operating equity earnings	—		—		6.1
Uncertain tax positions	(0.5)		1.3		6.2
Non-controlling interest	(2.9)		1.2		—

Tax credits	2.8		(1.0)		(1.8)
Conversion of equity investment	—		(11.8)		—
Change in outside basis difference	1.9		—		—
Change in measurement of prior year tax positions	3.5		—		—
Other	1.0		(0.2)		(0.9)
Effective income tax rate 2	34.3	%	(0.8)	%	33.4	%

1Net of changes in related tax attributes and tax benefits from capital losses generated and utilized.

2Effective tax rate for fiscal 2023 represents a tax benefit on a pre-tax loss.

The deferred tax assets and liabilities included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of the following (in millions):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Deferred tax assets:

Compensation and benefits	$	98	$	171

Insurance	131		108
Accrued rent & lease obligations	5,265		5,296

Legal liability 1	1,551		174
Allowance for doubtful accounts	23		53
Tax attributes	7,784		7,825
Stock compensation	74		56
Deferred income	8		120
Equity method investment	76		—
Other 1	143		56
Total deferred tax assets	$	15,153	$	13,859
Less: valuation allowance	7,360		7,521
Total deferred tax assets, net	$	7,793	$	6,338

Deferred tax liabilities:
Accelerated depreciation	$	254	$	634
Inventory	403		441
Intangible assets	1,024		1,134
Equity method investment	—		314
Lease right-of-use asset	4,690		4,763
Outside basis difference 1	1,045		52
Other 1	180		303
Total deferred tax liabilities	7,596		7,641

Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)	$	197	$	(1,303)

1Includes certain reclassifications to conform to current period presentation.

As of August 31, 2023, the Company has recorded deferred tax assets for tax attributes of $7.8 billion, primarily reflecting the benefit of $1.8 billion in U.S. federal, $465 million in state and $28.7 billion in non-U.S. ordinary and capital losses. In addition, these deferred tax assets include $158 million of income tax credits. Of these deferred tax assets, $6.9 billion will expire at various dates from 2024 through 2040. The residual deferred tax assets of $832 million have no expiration date.

The Company believes it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain deferred tax assets will not be realized. The assessment of realization of deferred tax assets is performed based on the weight of the positive and negative evidence available to indicate whether the asset is recoverable, including tax planning strategies that are prudent and feasible. In recognition of this risk, the Company has recorded a valuation allowance of $7.4 billion against those deferred tax assets as of August 31, 2023.

Income taxes paid, net of refunds were $64 million, $387 million and $336 million for fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes, provides guidance regarding the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure in the financial statement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return, including the decision whether to file in a particular jurisdiction. As of August 31, 2023 and 2022, unrecognized tax benefits of $703 million and $618 million were reported within Other non-current liabilities, respectively; $413 million and $473 million were reported against deferred taxes, respectively; and $116 million and $116 million were reported against related tax receivables in Other non-current assets, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These amounts include interest and penalties, when applicable.

The following table provides a reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Balance at beginning of year	$	1,110	$	1,098	$	494
Gross increases related to tax positions in a prior period	12		63		229
Gross decreases related to tax positions in a prior period	(19)		(51)		(52)
Gross increases related to tax positions in the current period	12		21		446
Settlements with taxing authorities	(7)		(19)		(13)

Lapse of statute of limitations	(2)		(2)		(6)
Balance at end of year	$	1,106	$	1,110	$	1,098

At August 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, $588 million, $529 million and $524 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits would favorably impact the effective tax rate if recognized. During the next twelve months, based on current knowledge, it is reasonably possible the amount of unrecognized tax benefits could decrease by up to $257 million due to anticipated federal and state tax audit settlements and the expirations of statutes of limitations associated with tax positions related to multiple state tax jurisdictions.

The Company recognizes interest and penalties in the income tax provision in its Consolidated Statements of Earnings. At August 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had accrued interest and penalties of $125 million and $97 million, respectively. For the years ended August 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the amounts reported in income tax expense related to interest and penalties were $29 million, $13 million and $26 million, respectively.

The Company files a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return as well as income tax returns in various states and multiple foreign jurisdictions. It is generally no longer under audit examinations for U.S. federal income tax purposes for any years prior to fiscal 2014. With few exceptions, it is no longer subject to state and local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before fiscal 2008. In foreign tax jurisdictions, the Company is generally no longer subject to examination by the tax authorities in the UK prior to 2015, Luxembourg prior to 2018 and in Germany prior to 2014.

The Company has received tax holidays from Swiss cantonal income taxes relative to certain of its Swiss operations. The income tax holidays expired in September 2022. A reduced tax rate will extend through December 2029. The holidays had a beneficial impact of $9 million, $104 million and $118 million (inclusive of capital GILTI tax cost) during fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. This benefit is primarily included as part of the foreign income taxed at non-U.S. rates line in the effective tax rate reconciliation table above.

At August 31, 2023, it is not practicable for the Company to determine the amount of the unrecognized deferred tax liability it has with respect to temporary differences related to investments in foreign subsidiaries and foreign corporate joint ventures that are essentially permanent in duration.

U.S. tax law changes

On August 16, 2022, the United States government enacted the IRA. The IRA establishes a new corporate alternative minimum tax based on financial statement income adjusted for certain items. The new minimum tax is effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 2022 (fiscal 2024). The enactment of the IRA did not have a material impact to the Company’s financial statements.

During 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department issued regulations to apply retroactively covering certain components of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Certain guidance included in these regulations is inconsistent with the Company’s interpretation that led to the recognition of $247 million of tax benefits in prior periods. The tax benefits relate to the Company’s one-time transition tax on certain un-repatriated earnings of foreign subsidiaries, which was enacted as part of the 2017 U.S. tax law changes. Despite this guidance, the Company remains confident in its interpretation of the U.S. tax law changes and intends to defend this position through litigation, if necessary. However, if the Company is ultimately unsuccessful in defending its position, it may be required to reverse all or a portion of the benefits previously recorded.

UK tax law changes

On June 10, 2021, the UK Finance Act 2021 was enacted increasing the UK tax rate from 19% to 25% effective April 1, 2023. The Company recorded tax expense of $344 million from re-measuring the net UK deferred tax liability in fiscal 2021.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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+ Details

Discontinued operations (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]

Schedules of discontinued operations

The following table shows the fair value of proceeds from the Alliance Healthcare Sale and net carrying value of the assets disposed (in billions):


	2021
Fair value of proceeds from disposition 1	$	6.9
Net assets disposed	5.8
Gain before currency translation adjustments	1.1
Currency translation loss released due to disposition	(0.8)
Net gain on disposal of discontinued operation 2	$	0.3

1.Includes base consideration of $6.275 billion adjusted for net working capital and net cash adjustments as set forth in the Share Purchase Agreement.

2.The Company recorded insignificant amount of tax expense due to utilization of capital losses.

Results of discontinued operations for prior period were as follows (in millions):


	2021
Sales	$	16,070
Cost of sales	14,486
Gross profit	1,584
Selling, general and administrative expense 1	1,254
Operating income from discontinued operations	329
Other income, net 2	314
Interest expense, net	(23)
Earnings before income tax – discontinued operations	621
Income tax provision	78
Post-tax earnings from other equity method investments	15
Net earnings from discontinued operations	$	557

1.Includes $44 million of divestiture related costs incurred post completion of the Alliance Healthcare Sale.

2.Includes $322 million of gain on sale of discontinued operations.

Sales in prior years from the Disposal Group to the Company's continuing operations aggregate to (in millions):


	2021 1
Sales	$	1,385

1.Sales in fiscal 2021 until date of disposal.

The following table presents cash flows for discontinued operations in prior periods (in millions):


	2021
Cash used for operating activities - discontinued operations	$	(132)
Cash used for investing activities - discontinued operations	(58)

- Definition

Tabular disclosure of information related to a disposal group. Includes, but is not limited to, a discontinued operation, disposal classified as held-for-sale or disposed of by means other than sale or disposal of an individually significant component.

+ References

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+ Details

Equity method investments - summarized financial information of equity method investees (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	May 31, 2023	Feb. 28, 2023	Nov. 30, 2022	Aug. 31, 2022	May 31, 2022	Feb. 28, 2022	Nov. 30, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Current assets	$ 15,503				$ 16,902				$ 15,503	$ 16,902
Non-current assets	81,125				73,222				81,125	73,222
Current liabilities	24,535				22,583				24,535	22,583
Non-current liabilities	43,605				37,134				43,605	37,134
Shareholders' equity	28,322				29,366				28,322	29,366	$ 23,822	$ 21,136
Non-controlling interests	8,302				4,091				8,302	4,091
Income Statement [Abstract]
Sales	35,422	$ 35,415	$ 34,862	$ 33,382	32,449	$ 32,597	$ 33,756	$ 33,901	139,081	132,703	132,509
Gross profit	6,475	$ 6,588	$ 7,055	$ 6,953	6,410	$ 6,572	$ 7,708	$ 7,574	27,072	28,265	28,067
Net earnings (loss)									(3,528)	4,065	2,512
Share of earnings (loss) from equity method investments									286	468	(512)
Equity Method Investment
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Current assets	48,185				50,985				48,185	50,985
Non-current assets	25,618				26,497				25,618	26,497
Current liabilities	52,093				52,083				52,093	52,083
Non-current liabilities	17,999				19,712				17,999	19,712
Shareholders' equity	3,711				5,687				3,711	5,687
Non-controlling interests	$ 520				$ 564				520	564
Income Statement [Abstract]
Sales									279,118	268,189	232,719
Gross profit									12,457	13,248	10,889
Net earnings (loss)									$ 1,799	$ 1,988	$ (3,475)

Fair value measurements - Fair Value Roll Forward (Details) - Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 0
VPF derivative additions	2,568
Unrealized gains recorded in Other income, net	19
Ending balance	$ 2,548

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Adoption of new accounting standards	Common stock	Treasury stock	Paid-in capital	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	Retained earnings	Retained earnings Adoption of new accounting standards	Non-controlling interests	Non-controlling interests Adoption of new accounting standards
Beginning balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2020			865,603,519
Beginning balance at Aug. 31, 2020	$ 21,136	$ (6)	$ 12	$ (20,575)	$ 10,761	$ (3,771)	$ 34,210	$ (3)	$ 498	$ (3)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (loss)	2,512						2,542		(31)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	1,669					1,663			6
Dividends declared and distributions	(1,629)						(1,629)
Treasury stock purchases (in shares)			(3,000,000)
Treasury stock purchases	(110)			(110)
Employee stock purchase and option plans (in shares)			2,770,117
Employee stock purchase and option plans	59			92	(33)
Stock-based compensation	155				155
Business combination	120				120
Redeemable non-controlling interests redemption price adjustments and other	(84)				(15)				(69)
Ending balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2021			865,373,636
Ending balance at Aug. 31, 2021	23,822		$ 12	(20,593)	10,988	(2,109)	35,121		402
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (loss)	4,138						4,337		(199)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(728)					(696)			(32)
Dividends declared and distributions	(1,664)						(1,657)		(7)
Treasury stock purchases (in shares)			(3,910,000)
Treasury stock purchases	(187)			(187)
Employee stock purchase and option plans (in shares)			3,175,821
Employee stock purchase and option plans	27			97	(70)
Stock-based compensation	228				133				95
Acquisition of non-controlling interests	(44)				74				(118)
Business combination	3,944								3,944
Redeemable non-controlling interests redemption price adjustments and other	(170)				(175)				5
Ending balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2022			864,639,457
Ending balance at Aug. 31, 2022	29,366		$ 12	(20,683)	10,950	(2,805)	37,801		4,091
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net earnings (loss)	(3,507)						(3,080)		(427)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	(176)					(189)			13
Dividends declared and distributions	(1,714)						(1,663)		(51)
Treasury stock purchases (in shares)			(4,438,228)
Treasury stock purchases	(150)			(150)
Employee stock purchase and option plans (in shares)			3,472,557
Employee stock purchase and option plans	45			116	(71)
Stock-based compensation	191				58				133
Acquisition of non-controlling interests	184				171				13
Business combination	4,518				(16)				4,534
Redeemable non-controlling interests redemption price adjustments and other	(435)				(431)				(4)
Ending balance (in shares) at Aug. 31, 2023			863,673,786
Ending balance at Aug. 31, 2023	$ 28,322		$ 12	$ (20,717)	$ 10,661	$ (2,993)	$ 33,058		$ 8,302

Retirement benefits - change in plan assets (Details) - Pension Plan - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Plan assets at fair value at beginning of year	$ 6,603	$ 10,475
Employer contributions	40	45
Benefits paid	(286)	(304)
Return on assets	(1,275)	(2,477)
Currency translation adjustments	511	(1,136)
Plan assets at fair value at end of year	$ 5,594	$ 6,603

- Definition

Amount of asset segregated and restricted to provide benefit under defined benefit plan. Asset includes, but is not limited to, stock, bond, other investment, earning from investment, and contribution by employer and employee.

+ References + Details

Income taxes - unrecognized tax benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Balance at beginning of year	$ 1,110	$ 1,098	$ 494
Gross increases related to tax positions in a prior period	12	63	229
Gross decreases related to tax positions in a prior period	(19)	(51)	(52)
Gross increases related to tax positions in the current period	12	21	446
Settlements with taxing authorities	(7)	(19)	(13)
Lapse of statute of limitations	(2)	(2)	(6)
Balance at end of year	$ 1,106	$ 1,110	$ 1,098

Acquisitions and other Investments - pro forma information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pro forma sales	$ 134,314	$ 135,306
Sales, actual	1,795
Summit Heath-CityMD
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Pro forma sales	140,039	$ 135,379
Sales, actual	$ 1,896

Debt - short and long-term debt (Details)	12 Months Ended
Debt - short and long-term debt (Details)	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2022 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2021 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2023 GBP (£)	Aug. 31, 2023 EUR (€)	Dec. 19, 2022 USD ($)	Nov. 17, 2021 USD ($)	Nov. 15, 2021 USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total short-term debt	$ 917,000,000	$ 1,059,000,000
Other	20,000,000	26,000,000
Total long-term debt, less current portion	8,145,000,000	10,615,000,000
Long-term debt purchased and retired	8,978,000,000	8,360,000,000	$ 15,257,000,000
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	0	6,000,000	414,000,000
0.9500% notes payable, due 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total short-term debt	850,000,000	0
Other
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total short-term debt	68,000,000	59,000,000
Unsecured credit facility, 3 year term, due 2026 \| Credit facilities
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount						$ 1,000,000,000
Unsecured notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Loss on early extinguishment of debt		6,000,000	$ 387,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 0.9500% notes payable, due 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 850,000,000						$ 850,000,000
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	0.95%			0.95%	0.95%		95.00%
Long-term debt	$ 0	848,000,000
Unsecured notes \| $1.5 billion debt issuance
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 1,500,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 3.200% unsecured notes due 2030
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.20%			3.20%	3.20%
Long-term debt	$ 498,000,000	498,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 4.100% unsecured notes due 2050
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.10%			4.10%	4.10%
Long-term debt	$ 793,000,000	792,000,000
Unsecured notes \| Total $6 billion note issuance
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 6,000,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 3.450% unsecured notes due 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.45%			3.45%	3.45%
Long-term debt	$ 1,444,000,000	1,443,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 4.650% unsecured notes due 2046
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.65%			4.65%	4.65%
Long-term debt	$ 318,000,000	318,000,000
Unsecured notes \| Total $8 billion note issuance
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 8,000,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 3.800% unsecured notes due 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.80%			3.80%	3.80%
Long-term debt	$ 1,156,000,000	1,155,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 4.500% unsecured notes due 2034
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.50%			4.50%	4.50%
Long-term debt	$ 301,000,000	301,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 4.800% unsecured notes due 2044
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.80%			4.80%	4.80%
Long-term debt	$ 869,000,000	869,000,000
Unsecured notes \| Total £700 million note issuance
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount \| £				£ 700,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 3.600% unsecured Pound sterling notes due 2025
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.60%			3.60%	3.60%
Long-term debt	$ 381,000,000	354,000,000
Unsecured notes \| Total €750 million note issuance
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount \| €					€ 750,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 2.125% unsecured Euro notes due 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	2.125%			2.125%	2.125%
Long-term debt	$ 814,000,000	752,000,000
Unsecured notes \| Total $4 billion note issuance
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 4,000,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 4.400% unsecured notes due 2042
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.40%			4.40%	4.40%
Long-term debt	$ 263,000,000	263,000,000
Term loan \| Credit facilities
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount								$ 3,000,000,000
Credit facilities \| November 2021 DDTL due November 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	0	1,998,000,000
Credit facilities \| November 2021 DDTL due November 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	289,000,000	999,000,000
Credit facilities \| December 2022 DDTL due January 2026
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	999,000,000	0
Credit facilities \| November 2021 DDTL due February 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total short-term debt	0	$ 1,000,000,000
Unsecured notes \| 0.9500% notes payable, due 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount	$ 850,000,000
Stated interest rate (as a percent)	0.95%			0.95%	0.95%

Goodwill and other intangible assets - schedule of goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 22,280	$ 12,421
Acquisitions	5,588	10,040
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments	252
Currency translation adjustments and other	67	(181)
Ending balance	28,187	22,280
VillageMD
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		8,000
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments	125
Shields Health Solutions
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Acquisitions		1,500
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments	72
CareCentrix, Inc.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	509
Acquisitions		454
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments	56
Ending balance		509
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Retail Pharmacy
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	10,947	10,947
Acquisitions	0	0
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments	0
Currency translation adjustments and other	0	0
Ending balance	10,947	10,947
Reportable Segments \| International
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	1,293	1,474
Acquisitions	0	0
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments	0
Currency translation adjustments and other	85	(181)
Ending balance	1,378	1,293
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Healthcare
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	10,040	0
Acquisitions	5,588	10,040
Goodwill, purchase accounting adjustments	252
Currency translation adjustments and other	(18)	0
Ending balance	$ 15,863	$ 10,040

Summary of major accounting policies - reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 728	$ 1,358	$ 559
Marketable securities	11	1,114	634
Cash and cash equivalents - assets held for sale (included in other current assets)	24	0	0
Restricted cash (included in other current and non-current assets)	93	86	77
Cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash	$ 856	$ 2,558	$ 1,270	$ 746

Leases - Narrative (Details) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($)
Leases [Abstract]
Undiscounted minimum lease payments, payments associated with options to extend lease terms	$ 3,700
Lessor, operating lease, payments to be received	$ 606

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Equity:
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, authorized (in shares)	32,000,000	32,000,000
Preferred stock, issued (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, authorized shares (in shares)	3,200,000,000	3,200,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares)	1,172,513,618	1,172,513,618
Treasury stock at cost (in shares)	308,839,832	307,874,161

Leases - average lease terms and discount rates (Details)	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Weighted average remaining lease term in years
Operating leases	9 years 7 months 6 days	10 years
Finance leases	17 years 4 months 24 days	19 years
Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases	5.35%	4.83%
Finance leases	5.25%	5.19%

Goodwill and other intangible assets - narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021	Jun. 01, 2023	May 31, 2023
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 28,187	$ 22,280	$ 12,421
Indefinite lived intangible assets	5,477	5,528
Impairment of definite-lived intangible assets	0	0	0
Amortization expense for intangible assets	$ 815	$ 639	523
Minimum
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of reporting unit fair value in excess of carrying amount	3.00%	3.00%		3.00%	3.00%
Maximum
Goodwill [Line Items]
Percentage of reporting unit fair value in excess of carrying amount	7.00%	7.00%		227.00%	32.00%
Pharmacy licenses
Goodwill [Line Items]
Indefinite lived intangible assets	$ 828	$ 1,209
Boots Reporting Unit
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	977	906
Impairment of intangible assets	431	783	$ 49
Indefinite lived intangible assets	$ 5,500	$ 5,500

Commitments and contingencies	12 Months Ended
Commitments and contingencies	Aug. 31, 2023
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and contingencies	Commitments and contingencies The Company is involved in legal proceedings arising in the normal course of its business, including litigation, arbitration and other claims, and investigations, inspections, subpoenas, audits, claims, inquiries and similar actions by governmental authorities in pharmacy, healthcare, tax and other areas. Some of these proceedings may be class actions, and some involve claims for large or indeterminate amounts, including punitive or exemplary damages, and they may remain unresolved for several years. Legal proceedings in general, and securities, class action and multi-district litigation, in particular, can be expensive and disruptive. From time to time, the Company is also involved in legal proceedings as a plaintiff involving antitrust, tax, contract, intellectual property and other matters. Gain contingencies, if any, are recognized when they are realized. The Company is subject to extensive regulation by national, state and local government agencies in the U.S. and other countries in which it operates. The Company’s business, compliance and reporting practices are subject to intensive scrutiny under applicable regulation, including review or audit by regulatory authorities. As a result, the Company regularly is the subject of government actions of the types described herein. The Company also may be named from time to time in qui tam actions initiated by private parties. In such an action, a private party purports to act on behalf of federal or state governments, alleges that false claims have been submitted for payment by the government and may receive an award if its claims are successful. After a private party has filed a qui tam action, the government must investigate the private party's claim and determine whether to intervene in and take control over the litigation. These actions may remain under seal while the government makes this determination. If the government declines to intervene, the private party may nonetheless continue to pursue the litigation on its own purporting to act on behalf of the government. The results of legal proceedings, including government investigations, are often uncertain and difficult to predict, and the costs incurred in these matters can be substantial, regardless of the outcome. In addition, as a result of governmental investigations or proceedings, the Company may be subject to damages, civil or criminal fines or penalties, or other sanctions, including the possible suspension or loss of licensure and suspension or exclusion from participation in government programs. The Company describes below certain proceedings against the Company in which the amount of loss could be material. The Company accrues for legal claims when, and to the extent that, the amount or range of probable loss can be reasonably estimated. The Company believes there are meritorious defenses in each of these proceedings, and it intends to defend each case vigorously, but there can be no assurance as to the ultimate outcome. With respect to litigation and other legal proceedings where the Company has determined a material loss is reasonably possible, except as otherwise disclosed, the Company is not able to make a reasonable estimate of the amount or range of loss that is reasonably possible above any accrued amounts in these proceedings, due to various reasons, including: existence of factual and legal arguments that, if successful, will eliminate or sharply reduce the possibility of loss; lack of sufficient information about the arguments and the evidence plaintiffs will advance with respect to their damages; some of the cases have been stayed; certain proceedings present novel and complex questions of public policy; legal and factual determinations and judicial and governmental procedure; the large number of parties involved; and the inherent uncertainties related to such litigation. Litigation Relating to 2016 Goals On December 29, 2014, a putative shareholder filed a derivative action in federal court in the Northern District of Illinois against certain current and former directors and officers of Walgreen Co. and Walgreen Co., as a nominal defendant, arising out of certain public statements the Company made regarding its former fiscal 2016 goals. (Cutler v. Wasson et al., No. 1:14-cv-10408 (N.D. Ill.)) The action asserts claims for breach of fiduciary duty, waste and unjust enrichment. On May 18, 2015, the case was stayed in light of a securities class action that was filed on April 10, 2015 (discussed below). On November 3, 2016, the Court entered a stipulation and order extending the stay until the resolution of the securities class action. The securities class action was resolved and a final judgement order entered on October 13, 2022. On March 24, 2023, the plaintiff filed a motion for preliminary approval of a settlement resolving the litigation. On May 8, 2023 the Court entered an order preliminarily approving the settlement. On July 25, 2023 the Court entered final approval of the settlement. As of August 31, 2023, the settlement was final and paid in full. On April 10, 2015, a putative shareholder filed a securities class action in federal court in the Northern District of Illinois against Walgreen Co. and certain former officers of Walgreen Co. (Washtenaw County Employees’ Retirement System v. Walgreen Co. et al., No. 1:15-cv-3187 (N.D. Ill.)) The action asserts claims for violation of the federal securities laws arising out of certain public statements the Company made regarding its former fiscal 2016 goals. On June 29, 2022 the Court granted preliminary approval of a settlement in the amount of $105 million which was paid in fiscal 2022. The Court issued a final judgment order approving the settlement on October 13, 2022. Securities Claims Relating to Rite-Aid Merger On December 11, 2017, purported Rite Aid shareholders filed an amended complaint in a putative class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania (the “M.D. Pa. class action”) arising out of transactions contemplated by the merger agreement between the Company and Rite Aid. The amended complaint alleges that the Company and certain of its officers made false or misleading statements regarding the transactions. Fact and expert discovery have concluded. The Court denied both plaintiffs’ partial motion for summary judgement and the Company’s motion for summary judgment on March 31, 2023. Trial is scheduled for January 29, 2024. On August 23, 2023, the Company, the other defendants in the M.D. Pa. class action, and the lead plaintiffs entered into a binding agreement to settle all claims in the M.D. Pa. class action. The settlement of approximately $193 million provides for the dismissal of the M.D. Pa. class action with prejudice. Defendants admitted no liability and denied all allegations of wrongdoing. As of August 31, 2023, the Company recorded a $193 million liability associated with this settlement. The settlement is subject to approval at a hearing on a date to be set by the Court. In October and December 2020, two separate purported Rite Aid Shareholders filed actions in the same court opting out of the class in the M.D. Pa. class action and making nearly identical allegations as those in the M.D. Pa. class action (the “Opt-out Actions”). The stay in the Opt-out Actions has been lifted following the Court’s rulings on summary judgment motions in the M.D. Pa. class action. The Company filed answers and affirmative defenses and discovery is ongoing. No trial date has been set. Putative shareholder filed a derivative suit in the District Court of Delaware on March 19, 2021 (Clem v. Skinner, et. al, 21-CV-406 Del Dist. Ct.) against certain current and former Walgreens directors and officers alleging breach of fiduciary duty and seeking contribution under Section 21D of the Exchange Act in connection with the M.D. Pa. class action. Plaintiffs’ allegations in this derivative suit concern the same public statements at issue in the M.D. Pa. class action. The case has been stayed since its inception given the pending M.D. Pa. class action. Claims Relating to Opioid Abuse On May 5, 2022, the Company announced that it had entered into a settlement agreement with the State of Florida to resolve all claims related to the distribution and dispensing of prescription opioid medications across the Company’s pharmacies in the State of Florida. This settlement agreement was not an admission of liability or wrong-doing and resolved all pending and future opioid litigation by state and government subdivisions in the State of Florida. The settlement amount of $683 million includes $620 million in remediation payments, which will be paid to the State of Florida in equal installments over 18 years, and will be applied as opioid remediation, as well as a one-time payment of $63 million for attorneys’ fees. In fiscal 2022, the Company recorded a $683 million liability associated with this settlement. On November 2, 2022, the Company announced that it had agreed to financial amounts and payment terms as part of settlement frameworks (the “Settlement Frameworks”) that had the potential to resolve a substantial majority of opioid-related lawsuits filed against the Company by the attorneys general of participating states and political subdivisions (the “Settling States”) and litigation brought by counsel for tribes. Under the Settlement Frameworks with the Settling States and counsel for tribes, the Company announced that it expected to settle all opioid claims against it by such Settling States, their participating political subdivisions, and participating tribes for up to approximately $4.8 billion and $155 million, respectively in remediation payments to be paid out over 15 years. The Settlement Frameworks provided for the payment of up to approximately $754 million in attorneys’ fees and costs over 6 years beginning in year two of the Settlement Frameworks. The Settlement Frameworks included no admission of wrongdoing or liability by the Company. As of November 30, 2022, the Company concluded that Settlement Framework discussions had advanced to a stage where a broad settlement of opioid claims by Settling States was probable, and for which the related loss was reasonably estimable. As a result of those conclusions and the Company’s ongoing assessment of other opioid-related claims, the Company recorded a $6.5 billion liability associated with the Settlement Frameworks and other opioid-related claims and litigation settlements during the three months ended November 30, 2022. The settlement accrual was reflected in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings within Selling, general and administrative expenses as part of the U.S. Retail Pharmacy segment. On December 9, 2022, the Company committed the Settlement Frameworks to a proposed settlement agreement (the “Proposed Settlement Agreement”) that was contingent on (1) a sufficient number of Settling States, including those that had not sued, agreeing to the Proposed Settlement Agreement following a sign-on period, and (2) following a notice period, a sufficient number of political subdivisions within Settling States, including those that had not sued, agreeing to the Proposed Settlement Agreement (or otherwise having their claims foreclosed). On June 8, 2023 the Company informed the Settling States that there was sufficient State participation, sufficient Subdivision participation, and sufficient resolution of the claims of Litigating Subdivisions in the Settling States to proceed with the multistate settlement. The Company has now resolved its litigation with all states, territories, tribes and 99.5% of litigating subdivisions within Settling States included in the Proposed Settlement or in separate agreements. Estimated liabilities for these settlements are fully accrued. Incentive payments to Settling States with non-participating political subdivisions are subject to reduction and those subdivisions are still entitled to pursue their claims against the Company. The Proposed Settlement Agreement became effective on August 7, 2023 (the “Multistate Settlement Agreement”). The Company will continue to vigorously defend against any litigation not covered by the Multistate Settlement Agreement, including private plaintiff litigation. The Company continues to believe it has strong legal defenses and appellate arguments in all of these cases. As of August 31, 2023, the Company has accrued a total $7.0 billion liability associated with the Multistate Settlement Agreement and other opioid-related claims and litigation settlements, including $703 million and $6.3 billion of the estimated settlement liability in Accrued expenses and other current liabilities, and Accrued litigation obligations, respectively, in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Company remains a defendant in multiple actions in federal courts alleging claims generally concerning the impacts of widespread opioid abuse, which have been commenced by various plaintiffs. In December 2017, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation consolidated many of these cases in a consolidated multidistrict litigation, captioned In re National Prescription Opiate Litigation (MDL No. 2804, Case No. 17-md-2804), which is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio (“N.D. Ohio”). The Company is a defendant in the following multidistrict litigation (MDL) bellwether cases: •Two consolidated cases in N.D. Ohio (Cnty. of Lake, Ohio v. Purdue Pharma L.P., et al., Case No. 18-op-45032; Cnty. of Trumbull, Ohio v. Purdue Pharma L.P., et al., Case No. 18-op-45079). In November 2021, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiffs as to liability, and a second trial regarding remedies took place in May 2022. In August 2022, the court entered orders providing for injunctive relief and requiring the defendants to pay $651 million over a 15-year period to fund abatement programs. The court found that the damages are subject to joint and several liability and as such made no determination as to apportionment. These decisions are currently on appeal. The Company also has been named as a defendant in multiple actions brought in state courts relating to opioid matters. Trial dates have been set in cases pending in state courts in the following states: •Maryland (Mayor and City Council of Baltimore v. Purdue Pharma L.P., et al., Case No. 24-C-18-000515, Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Baltimore, Maryland - September 2024). •Florida (Florida Health Sciences Center, Inc., et al. v. Richard Sackler, et al., Case No. CACE 19-018882, Seventeenth Judicial Circuit Court, Broward County, Florida - July 2025). The relief sought by various plaintiffs in these matters includes compensatory, abatement, restitution and punitive damages, as well as injunctive relief. Additionally, the Company has received from the U.S. Department of Justice (“DOJ”) and the Attorneys General of numerous states subpoenas, civil investigative demands, and other requests concerning opioid-related matters. The Company continues to communicate with the DOJ regarding purported violations of the federal Controlled Substances Act and the federal False Claims Act in dispensing prescriptions for opioids and other controlled substances at its pharmacies nationwide. Usual and Customary Pricing Litigation The Company is defending a number of claims, lawsuits and investigations that allege that the Company’s retail pharmacies overcharged for prescription drugs by not submitting the correct usual and customary price during the claims adjudication process. These actions have been brought by different types of plaintiffs, including insurance companies, plan members, government and private payors, based on different legal theories. The Company has appropriately accrued for these matters, based on each matter's unique facts and circumstances. As of August 31, 2023, the Company has accrued an estimated liability of approximately $304 million for these matters. Loss contingencies are highly subjective and unpredictable and unfavorable developments can occur. The amount of the actual loss may differ materially from the accrual estimate. In one such case, Humana initiated an arbitration before the American Arbitration Association. At the conclusion of that matter, the arbitrator issued an award in Humana’s favor in the amount of $642 million. The Company has asked a federal court to vacate that award.

Leases - future lease payments for operating and finance leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Finance lease
2024	$ 109
2025	104
2026	101
2027	99
2028	90
Later	967
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments	1,470
Less: Present value discount	(495)
Lease liability	976	$ 936
Operating lease 1,2
2024	3,672
2025	3,589
2026	3,508
2027	3,417
2028	3,267
Later	14,508
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments	31,960
Less: Present value discount	(7,488)
Lease liability	$ 24,472	$ 23,803

Insider Trading Arrangements	3 Months Ended
Insider Trading Arrangements	Aug. 31, 2023
Trading Arrangements, by Individual
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted	false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted	false
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated	false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated	false

Acquisitions and other Investments (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract]

Schedule of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed

The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration 1	$	4,778
Deferred consideration	100
Summit debt paid at closing	1,963
Fair value of equity consideration 2	1,971
Fair value of non-controlling interests	13
Total	$	8,825

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	69
Accounts receivable, net	382

Property, plant and equipment	607
Intangible assets 3	3,359
Operating lease right-of-use assets	756
Other assets	173

Operating lease obligations	(773)
Deferred tax liability	(737)
Other liabilities	(446)
Total identifiable net assets	$	3,390

Goodwill	$	5,436

1.Cash consideration excludes $87 million of cash paid to fund acquisition-related bonuses to Summit employees which is recognized as compensation expense of the Company.

2.The fair value of the non-controlling interests was calculated based on the implied equity value of VillageMD, allocated to all units on an as-converted basis.

3.Intangibles acquired include provider networks and trade names with fair values of $1.9 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively. Estimated useful lives are 15 years and 11 to 15 years, respectively.

The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Total purchase price	$	5,200
Less: purchase price for issuance of new preferred units at fair value 1	(2,300)
Net consideration	2,900
Fair value of share-based compensation awards attributable to pre-combination services 2	683
Fair value of previously held equity and debt	3,211
Fair value of non-controlling interest	3,257
Total	$	10,051

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets 1	$	634
Intangible assets 3	1,621
Liabilities	(370)
Total identifiable net assets	$	1,885

Goodwill	$	8,166

2.Primarily related to vested share-based compensation awards.

The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration	$	969
Fair value of share-based compensation awards attributable to pre-combination services	13
Fair value of previously held equity interests	502
Fair value of non-controlling interests	589
Total	$	2,074

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets	$	84
Intangible assets 1	1,060
Liabilities	(600)
Total identifiable net assets	$	544

Goodwill	$	1,529

The following table summarizes the consideration for the acquisition and the amounts of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of the transaction (in millions):


Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration 1	327
Contingent consideration	4
Fair value of share-based compensation awards attributable to pre-combination services	66
Fair value of non-controlling interests	217
Total	$	614

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets	$	358
Intangible assets 2	426
Liabilities	(680)
Total identifiable net assets	$	104

Goodwill	$	509

1.Excludes $12 million of cash paid to employees, which was recognized as compensation expense by the Company.

Schedule of pro forma information and actual sales


(Unaudited, in millions)	2023		2022
Sales	$	140,039	$	135,379

Actual sales of Summit, from the acquisition date, for the year ended August 31, 2023, included in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings are as follows (in millions):


	2023
Sales	$	1,896

The unaudited pro forma information has been prepared for comparative purposes only and is not intended to be indicative of what the Company's results would have been had the acquisitions occurred at the beginning of the periods presented or results which may occur in the future.


(Unaudited, in millions)	2022		2021
Sales	$	134,314	$	135,306

Actual sales of the acquisitions for the year ended August 31, 2022 included in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings are as follows (in millions):


	2022
Sales	$	1,795

Summary of major accounting policies - variable interest entities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Assets	$ 96,628	$ 90,124
Liabilities	68,140	59,717
Variable interest entity, primary beneficiary
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]
Assets	881	313
Liabilities	$ 486	$ 142

- Definition

Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events.

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Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities that are recognized. Liabilities are probable future sacrifices of economic benefits arising from present obligations of an entity to transfer assets or provide services to other entities in the future.

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+ Details

- Definition

Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.

+ References + Details

Acquisitions and other Investments - schedule of purchase price allocation and identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed - Shields (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Oct. 29, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Goodwill		$ 28,187	$ 22,280	$ 12,421
Shields Health Solutions
Purchase price allocation:
Cash consideration	$ 969
Fair value of equity consideration	13
Fair value of previously held equity and debt	502
Fair value of non-controlling interest	589
Total	2,074
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed:
Tangible assets	84
Intangible assets	1,060
Liabilities	(600)
Total identifiable net assets	544
Goodwill	$ 1,529

Discontinued operations - schedule of transaction proceeds and net assets disposed (Details) - Discontinued operations, disposed of by sale - Alliance Healthcare - USD ($) $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 01, 2021	Aug. 31, 2021
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Estimated fair value of proceeds from disposition	$ 6,900
Net assets disposed	5,800
Gain before currency translation adjustments	1,100
Currency translation loss released due to disposition	(800)
Net gain on disposal of discontinued operation	322	$ 322
Base consideration	$ 6,275

Summary of major accounting policies - narrative (Details) shares in Millions, $ in Millions		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 01, 2021 USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2023 USD ($) segment shares	Aug. 31, 2022 USD ($) shares	Aug. 31, 2021 USD ($) shares
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments \| segment		3
Minimum number of days for settlement of credit and debit charges		1 day
Maximum number of days for settlement of credit and debit charges		7 days
Credit and debit card receivables		$ 122.0	$ 127.0
Other cash flows from operating activities		(157.0)	326.0	$ (218.0)
Gain on reclassification of equity method investment to equity security		83.0
Impairment of equity method investments and investments in deb and equity securities			233.0
Allowance for doubtful accounts		110.0	66.0
Inventories		8,257.0	8,353.0
Depreciation and amortization expense		$ 1,400.0	1,400.0	1,400.0
Term of renewal contract		5 years
Advertising expense		$ 775.0	862.0	$ 772.0
Expected performance goal achievement rate		100.00%
Trade Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts receivable		$ 4,300.0	$ 4,000.0
Other Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Accounts receivable		$ 1,100.0
Potentially Dilutive Securities
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Outstanding options to purchase common shares excluded from earnings per share calculations (in shares) \| shares		3.0
Share-Based Payment Arrangement
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Outstanding options to purchase common shares excluded from earnings per share calculations (in shares) \| shares		17.8	17.1	17.2
VillageMD
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Aggregate liquidation preference		$ 4,900.0
VillageMD
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Non-controlling interests, preferred units (in shares) \| shares		16.0	3.9
Non-controlling interests, common units (in shares) \| shares		6.5	6.1
Dividend rate		5.50%
Discontinued operations, disposed of by sale \| Alliance Healthcare
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Net gain on disposal	$ 322.0			$ 322.0
Minimum
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Term of lease		10 years
Highly effective hedging percentage		80.00%
Maximum
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Term of lease		25 years
Highly effective hedging percentage		125.00%
Capitalized system development costs and software
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Amortization of capitalized system development costs and software		$ 371.0	$ 307.0	284.0
Unamortized capitalized software costs		1,500.0	1,100.0
Selling, general and administrative expense
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Impairment of definite-lived assets		863.0	380.0	$ 182.0
U.S. Retail Pharmacy \| Reportable Segments
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Inventories		6,200.0	6,500.0
LIFO reserve		3,600.0	3,400.0
International \| Reportable Segments
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Inventories		$ 2,000.0	$ 1,800.0

Financial instruments - warrants (Details) - Derivatives not designated as hedges: - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Foreign currency forwards \| Selling, general and administrative expense
Warrants [Abstract]
Gains (losses) due to changes in fair value of derivative instruments	$ 0	$ 0	$ (75)
Foreign currency forwards \| Other income (expense)
Warrants [Abstract]
Gains (losses) due to changes in fair value of derivative instruments	(273)	523	(8)
Total return swaps \| Selling, general and administrative expense
Warrants [Abstract]
Gains (losses) due to changes in fair value of derivative instruments	12	(33)	58
Variable prepaid forward \| Other income (expense)
Warrants [Abstract]
Gains (losses) due to changes in fair value of derivative instruments	$ 19	$ 0	$ 0

Leases

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Leases [Abstract]

Leases

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows (in millions):


Balance sheet supplemental information:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Operating leases:
Operating lease right-of-use assets	$	21,667	$	21,259

Operating lease obligations - current	$	2,347	$	2,286
Operating lease obligations - non-current	22,124		21,517
Total operating lease obligations	$	24,472	$	23,803
Finance leases:
Right-of-use assets included in:
Property, plant and equipment, net	$	678	$	645
Lease obligations included in:
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	57	$	37
Other non-current liabilities	919		899
Total finance lease obligations	$	976	$	936

Supplemental income statement information related to leases was as follows (in millions):


Statement of earnings supplemental information:	2023		2022		2021
Operating lease cost
Fixed	$	3,404	$	3,240	$	3,219
Variable 1	850		825		664
Finance lease cost
Amortization	$	47	$	44	$	45
Interest	51		50		52

Sublease income 2	$	115	$	105	$	84
Impairment of right-of-use assets	495		218		86


Gains on sale-leaseback transactions 2
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	747	$	558	$	367
International 3	178		61		—
Total gain on sale-leaseback 2	$	925	$	619	$	367

1Includes real estate property taxes, common area maintenance, insurance and rental payments based on sales volume.

2Recorded within Selling, general and administrative expenses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Other supplemental information was as follows (in millions):


Other supplemental information:	2023		2022		2021
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease obligations
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$	3,579	$	3,351	$	3,414
Operating cash flows from finance leases	47		47		48
Financing cash flows from finance leases	52		43		42
Total	$	3,679	$	3,441	$	3,503

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations
Operating leases	$	2,323	$	2,078	$	2,765
Finance leases	30		11		—
Total	$	2,352	$	2,089	$	2,765

Weighted average lease term and discount rate for real estate leases as of August 31, 2023 were as follows:


Weighted average lease terms and discount rates:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Weighted average remaining lease term in years
Operating leases	9.6		10.0
Finance leases	17.4		19.0

Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases	5.35	%	4.83	%
Finance leases	5.25	%	5.19	%

The aggregate future lease payments for operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2023 are as follows (in millions):


Future lease payments (fiscal years):	Finance lease		Operating lease 1,2

2024	$	109	$	3,672
2025	104		3,589
2026	101		3,508
2027	99		3,417
2028	90		3,267
Later	967		14,508
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments	$	1,470	$	31,960
Less: Present value discount	495		7,488
Lease liability	$	976	$	24,472

2.Total undiscounted minimum lease payments exclude sublease rental income of approximately $606 million due to the Company under non-cancelable sublease terms.

Leases

Supplemental balance sheet information related to leases was as follows (in millions):


Balance sheet supplemental information:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Operating leases:
Operating lease right-of-use assets	$	21,667	$	21,259

Operating lease obligations - current	$	2,347	$	2,286
Operating lease obligations - non-current	22,124		21,517
Total operating lease obligations	$	24,472	$	23,803
Finance leases:
Right-of-use assets included in:
Property, plant and equipment, net	$	678	$	645
Lease obligations included in:
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$	57	$	37
Other non-current liabilities	919		899
Total finance lease obligations	$	976	$	936

Supplemental income statement information related to leases was as follows (in millions):


Statement of earnings supplemental information:	2023		2022		2021
Operating lease cost
Fixed	$	3,404	$	3,240	$	3,219
Variable 1	850		825		664
Finance lease cost
Amortization	$	47	$	44	$	45
Interest	51		50		52

Sublease income 2	$	115	$	105	$	84
Impairment of right-of-use assets	495		218		86


Gains on sale-leaseback transactions 2
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	747	$	558	$	367
International 3	178		61		—
Total gain on sale-leaseback 2	$	925	$	619	$	367

1Includes real estate property taxes, common area maintenance, insurance and rental payments based on sales volume.

2Recorded within Selling, general and administrative expenses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Other supplemental information was as follows (in millions):


Other supplemental information:	2023		2022		2021
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease obligations
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$	3,579	$	3,351	$	3,414
Operating cash flows from finance leases	47		47		48
Financing cash flows from finance leases	52		43		42
Total	$	3,679	$	3,441	$	3,503

Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations
Operating leases	$	2,323	$	2,078	$	2,765
Finance leases	30		11		—
Total	$	2,352	$	2,089	$	2,765

Weighted average lease term and discount rate for real estate leases as of August 31, 2023 were as follows:


Weighted average lease terms and discount rates:	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Weighted average remaining lease term in years
Operating leases	9.6		10.0
Finance leases	17.4		19.0

Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases	5.35	%	4.83	%
Finance leases	5.25	%	5.19	%

The aggregate future lease payments for operating and finance leases as of August 31, 2023 are as follows (in millions):


Future lease payments (fiscal years):	Finance lease		Operating lease 1,2

2024	$	109	$	3,672
2025	104		3,589
2026	101		3,508
2027	99		3,417
2028	90		3,267
Later	967		14,508
Total undiscounted minimum lease payments	$	1,470	$	31,960
Less: Present value discount	495		7,488
Lease liability	$	976	$	24,472

2.Total undiscounted minimum lease payments exclude sublease rental income of approximately $606 million due to the Company under non-cancelable sublease terms.

Financial instruments

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Financial instruments

The Company uses derivative instruments to hedge its exposure to market risks, including interest rate and currency risks, arising from operating and financing risks. The Company has non-U.S. dollar denominated net investments and uses foreign currency denominated financial instruments, specifically foreign currency derivatives and foreign currency denominated debt, to hedge its foreign currency risk.

The Company economically hedges a portion of its exposure to equity price risk related to its investment in Cencora through variable prepaid forward derivative contracts.

The notional amounts and fair value of derivative instruments outstanding were as follows (in millions):


August 31, 2023	Notional		Fair value		Location in Consolidated Balance Sheets
Derivatives designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	31	$	1	Other current assets

Cross currency interest rate swaps	650		28		Other non-current assets
Foreign currency forwards	805		2		Other current liabilities
Cross currency interest rate swaps	102		2		Other current liabilities
Foreign currency forwards	4		—		Other non-current liabilities



Derivatives not designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	3,139	$	6	Other current assets
Total return swap	168		1		Other current assets
Foreign currency forwards	817		2		Other current liabilities
Total return swap	26		1		Other current liabilities
Variable prepaid forward contracts	3,195		2,548		Other non-current liabilities


August 31, 2022	Notional		Fair value		Location in Consolidated Balance Sheets
Derivatives designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	448	$	19	Other current assets
Cross currency interest rate swaps	150		12		Other current assets
Cross currency interest rate swaps	750		83		Other non-current assets
Foreign currency forwards	3		—		Other non-current assets
Foreign currency forwards	221		1		Other current liabilities



Derivatives not designated as hedges:
Foreign currency forwards	$	2,874	$	49	Other current assets

Foreign currency forwards	1,098		6		Other current liabilities
Total return swap	183		6		Other current liabilities

Net investment hedges

The Company uses cross currency interest rate swaps and foreign currency forward contracts to hedge net investments in subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currencies. For qualifying net investment hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivatives are recorded in Currency translation adjustments within Accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Cash flow hedges

The Company may use foreign currency forwards and interest rate swaps to hedge the variability in forecasted transactions and cash flows of certain floating-rate debt. For qualifying cash flow hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivatives are recorded in Unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges within Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and released to the Consolidated Statements of Earnings when the hedged cash flows affect earnings.

Derivatives not designated as hedges

The Company enters into derivative transactions that are not designated as accounting hedges. These derivative instruments are economic hedges of foreign currency risks and equity price risk. The Company also utilizes total return swaps to economically hedge variability in compensation charges related to certain deferred compensation obligations.

In fiscal 2023, the Company entered into VPF transactions with third-party financial institutions and received upfront prepayments related to the forward sale of shares of Cencora common stock. The upfront prepayments are recorded within Other non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheet as derivatives. The Company has pledged shares of Cencora common stock as collateral upon entering into the VPF transactions. The VPF transactions provide the Company with current liquidity while allowing it to maintain voting and dividend rights in the Cencora common stock, as well as the ability to participate in future stock price appreciation during the term of the contracts up to a cap price specified in the contracts. The VPF transactions are expected to be settled per their respective forward settlement dates, at which time the Company will be obligated, unless it elects to settle otherwise as described below, to deliver the full number of shares of Cencora common stock to settle the agreements. The Company may receive additional cash payments to be determined based on the price of the Cencora common stock at the forward settlement dates relative to the forward floor and cap price specified in the contracts. Subject to certain conditions, the Company may elect to net settle the contract by delivery of shares (or payment of the cash value thereof) in lieu of receiving any additional cash. The aggregate number of Cencora shares to be delivered in connection with the VPF transactions will not exceed the shares subject to forward sale.

The terms of the VPF transactions were as follows (in millions):


Transaction date	Shares pledged and maximum shares subject to forward sale	Prepayment amount		Forward settlement date
May 11, 2023	4.6	$	644	Fourth quarter, fiscal 2025
June 15, 2023	2.2	325		Third quarter, fiscal 2025
August 3, 2023	5.3	801		First quarter, fiscal 2026
August 4, 2023	5.3	797		Third quarter, fiscal 2026
	17.3	$	2,568

The income (expense) due to changes in fair value of derivative instruments were recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings as follows (in millions):


	Location in Consolidated Statements of Earnings	2023		2022		2021
Foreign currency forwards	Selling, general and administrative expense 1	$	—	$	—	$	(75)
Total return swap	Selling, general and administrative expense	12		(33)		58
Foreign currency forwards	Other income, net 1,2	(273)		523		(8)
Variable prepaid forward	Other income, net	19		—		—

1.In fiscal 2022, certain expenses related to derivative instruments used as economic hedges, were presented as Other income, net within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings, whereas these expenses were recorded within Selling, general, and administrative expenses within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings in fiscal 2021.

2.Excludes remeasurement gains and losses on economically hedged assets and liabilities.

Derivatives credit risk

Counterparties to derivative financial instruments expose the Company to credit-related losses in the event of counterparty nonperformance, and the Company regularly monitors the credit worthiness of each counterparty.

Derivatives offsetting

The Company does not offset the fair value amounts of derivative instruments subject to master netting agreements in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Leases - supplemental income statement information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Operating lease cost
Fixed	$ 3,404	$ 3,240	$ 3,219
Variable	850	825	664
Finance lease cost
Amortization	47	44	45
Interest	51	50	52
Sublease income	115	105	84
Impairment of right-of-use assets	495	218	86
Gain on sale-leaseback transactions	925	619	367
U.S. Retail Pharmacy
Finance lease cost
Gain on sale-leaseback transactions	747	558	367
International
Finance lease cost
Gain on sale-leaseback transactions	178	61	$ 0
International \| GERMANY
Finance lease cost
Gain on sale-leaseback transactions	178
International \| GERMANY \| Fiscal Year 2023 Acquisitions
Finance lease cost
Gain on sale-leaseback transactions	$ 47
International \| United Kingdom
Finance lease cost
Gain on sale-leaseback transactions		$ 61

Debt

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt

Debt carrying values are presented net of unamortized discount and debt issuance costs, where applicable, and foreign currency denominated debt is translated to the U.S. dollar using the spot rates as of the balance sheet date. Debt consists of the following (all amounts are presented in millions of U.S. dollars and debt issuances are denominated in U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted):


	August 31, 2023		August 31, 2022
Short-term debt

Credit facilities 1
November 2021 DDTL due February 2023	$	—	$	1,000
$850 million note issuance 1
0.9500% unsecured notes due 2023	850		—
Other 2	68		59
Total short-term debt	$	917	$	1,059


Long-term debt
Credit facilities 1
November 2021 DDTL due November 2023	$	—	$	1,998
November 2021 DDTL due November 2024	289		999
December 2022 DDTL due January 2026	999		—

$850 million note issuance 1
0.9500% unsecured notes due 2023	—		848
$1.5 billion note issuance 1
3.200% unsecured notes due 2030	498		498
4.100% unsecured notes due 2050	793		792
$6 billion note issuance 1
3.450% unsecured notes due 2026	1,444		1,443
4.650% unsecured notes due 2046	318		318
$8 billion note issuance 1
3.800% unsecured notes due 2024	1,156		1,155
4.500% unsecured notes due 2034	301		301
4.800% unsecured notes due 2044	869		869
£700 million note issuance 1
3.600% unsecured Pound Sterling notes due 2025	381		354
€750 million note issuance 1
2.125% unsecured Euro notes due 2026	814		752
$4 billion note issuance 3
4.400% unsecured notes due 2042	263		263
Other 2	20		26
Total long-term debt, less current portion	$	8,145	$	10,615

2.Other debt represents a mix of fixed and variable rate debt with various maturities and working capital facilities denominated in various currencies.


	Amount
2024	$	918
2025	1,451
2026	2,830
2027	815
2028	3
Later	3,074
Total estimated future maturities	$	9,092

$850 million Note Issuance

On November 17, 2021, the Company issued, in an underwritten public offering, $850 million of 0.95% notes due 2023. The notes contain a call option which allows for the notes to be repaid, in full or in part at 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest.

Credit facilities

August 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement

On August 9, 2023, the Company entered into a $2.25 billion unsecured three-year revolving credit facility (the “August 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement”). Interest on borrowings under the revolving credit facility accrues at applicable margins based on the Company's Index Debt Rating and ranges from 75 basis points to 150 basis points over specified benchmark rates for Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) loans, as applicable. Additionally, the Company pays commitment fees to maintain the availability under the revolving credit facility at applicable fee rates based upon certain criteria at an annual rate on the unutilized portion of the total credit commitment. The 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement's termination date is August 9, 2027, or earlier, subject to the Company's discretion to terminate the agreement. As of August 31, 2023, there were no borrowings outstanding under the 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement.

August 2023 Delayed Draw Term Loan

On August 9, 2023, the Company entered into a $1 billion senior unsecured delayed draw term loan credit agreement (the “August 2023 DDTL”). Borrowings under the August 2023 DDTL bear interest at a fluctuating rate per annum equal to, at the Company’s option, the alternate base rate, the term SOFR or the daily SOFR, in each case, plus a credit adjustment spread and an applicable margin of 112.5 basis points. The applicable margin is based on the rating of the Company’s corporate debt obligations as determined by Moody’s or S&P. The August 2023 DDTL was for general corporate purposes. The August 2023 DDTL matures three years from the date of borrowing. As of August 31, 2023, there were no borrowings outstanding under the August 2023 DDTL. Amounts borrowed under the August 2023 DDTL and repaid or prepaid may not be reborrowed.

March 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement

On March 2, 2023, the Company entered into a $900 million unsecured 364-day revolving credit facility (the “March 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement”). Interest on borrowings under the revolving credit facility accrues at applicable margins based on the Company's Index Debt Rating and ranges from 80 basis points to 110 basis points over specified benchmark rates for SOFR loans, as applicable. Additionally, the Company pays commitment fees to maintain the availability under the revolving credit facility at applicable fee rates based upon certain criteria at an annual rate on the unutilized portion of the total credit commitment. The 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement's termination date was February 29, 2024, or earlier, subject to the Company's discretion to terminate the agreement. On August 9, 2023, the Company terminated the March 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement. All outstanding obligations under the March 2023 Revolving Credit Agreement have been paid and satisfied in full.

December 2022 Delayed Draw Term Loan

On December 19, 2022, the Company entered into a $1.0 billion senior unsecured delayed draw term loan credit agreement (the “December 2022 DDTL”). Borrowings under the December 2022 DDTL bear interest at a fluctuating rate per annum equal to, at the Company’s option, the alternate base rate, the term SOFR or the daily SOFR, in each case, plus a credit adjustment spread and an applicable margin of 112.5 basis points. The applicable margin is based on the rating of the Company’s corporate debt obligations as determined by Moody’s or S&P. The December 2022 DDTL was drawn for the purpose of funding the consideration due for the purchase of Summit and paying fees and expenses related to it. The December 2022 DDTL matures on January 3, 2026. As of August 31, 2023, there were $1.0 billion in borrowings outstanding under the December 2022 DDTL. Amounts borrowed under the December 2022 DDTL and repaid or prepaid may not be reborrowed.

June 2022 Revolving Credit Agreements

On June 17, 2022, the Company entered into a $3.5 billion unsecured five-year revolving credit facility and a $1.5 billion unsecured 18-month revolving credit facility, with designated borrowers from time to time party thereto and lenders from time to time party thereto (the “2022 Revolving Credit Agreements”). Interest on borrowings under the revolving credit facilities accrue at applicable margins based on the Company's Index Debt Rating and ranges from 80 basis points to 150 basis points over specified benchmark rates for eurocurrency rate and SOFR loans, as applicable. Additionally, the Company pays commitment fees to maintain the availability under the revolving credit facility at applicable fee rates based upon certain criteria at an annual rate on the unutilized portion of the total credit commitment. The five-year facility’s termination date is June 17, 2027, or earlier, subject to the Company's discretion to terminate the agreement. The 18-month facility’s termination date was December 15, 2023, or earlier, subject to the Company's discretion to terminate the agreement. On August 9, 2023 the Company terminated the 18-month facility under the 2022 Revolving Credit Agreements. All outstanding obligations under the 18-month revolving credit facility have been paid and satisfied in full. As of August 31, 2023, there were no borrowings outstanding under the five-year revolving credit facility.

November 2021 Delayed Draw Term Loan

On November 15, 2021, the Company entered into a $5.0 billion senior unsecured multi-tranche delayed draw term loan credit facility, (the “November 2021 DDTL”) consisting of (i) a 364-day senior unsecured delayed draw term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $2.0 billion (the “364-day loan”), (ii) a two-year senior unsecured delayed draw term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $2.0 billion (the “two-year loan”) and (iii) a three-year senior unsecured delayed draw term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.0 billion (the “three-year loan”). An aggregate amount of $3.0 billion or more of the November 2021 DDTL was drawn for the purpose of funding the purchase of the increased equity interest in VillageMD, paying fees and expenses related to the foregoing, with the remainder used for general corporate purposes. In fiscal 2023, the Company repaid the 364-day loan and the two-year loan in full. The maturity date on the three-year loan is November 24, 2024. As of August 31, 2023, there were $289 million in borrowings outstanding under the November 2021 DDTL. Amounts borrowed under the November 2021 DDTL and repaid or prepaid may not be reborrowed.

Borrowings under the November 2021 DDTL bear interest at a fluctuating rate per annum equal to the daily SOFR, plus an applicable margin. The applicable margins for the 364-day and two-year loans were 0.75% and 0.88%, respectively. The applicable margin for the three-year loan is 1.03%

Debt covenants

Each of the Company’s credit facilities described above contain a covenant to maintain, as of the last day of each fiscal quarter, a ratio of consolidated debt to total capitalization not to exceed 0.60:1.00, subject to increase in certain circumstances set forth in the applicable credit agreement. The credit facilities contain various other customary financial covenants. As of August 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all such applicable financial covenants.

Commercial paper

The Company periodically borrows under its commercial paper program and may borrow under it in future periods. As of August 31, 2023 and 2022, there were no borrowings outstanding under the commercial paper program.

Interest

Interest paid by the Company was $606 million, $420 million and $916 million in fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Interest paid in fiscal 2022 and 2021 included charges on early extinguishment of debt of $6 million and $387 million, respectively.

- Definition

The entire disclosure for information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1B
-Subparagraph (h)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(c))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-1

Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Topic 470
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//470/tableOfContent

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1B
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1B
-Subparagraph (g)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1B
-Subparagraph (i)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1B

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1C
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1C

Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1C
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1C

Reference 9: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1C
-Subparagraph (c)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1C

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1E
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1E

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1I
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1I

Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1I
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1I

Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 20
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 1I
-Subparagraph (d)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481139/470-20-50-1I

+ Details

Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($) $ in Millions	Aug. 31, 2023	May 31, 2023	Feb. 28, 2023	Nov. 30, 2022	Aug. 31, 2022	May 31, 2022	Feb. 28, 2022	Nov. 30, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Pay vs Performance Disclosure
Net Income (Loss)	$ (180)	$ 118	$ 703	$ (3,721)	$ (415)	$ 289	$ 883	$ 3,580	$ (3,080)	$ 4,337	$ 2,542

- Definition

The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 235
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08(g)(1)(ii))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480678/235-10-S99-1

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 323
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 3
-Subparagraph (c)
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Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 8: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483443/250-10-50-9

Reference 10: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 250
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-Section 50
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-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483443/250-10-50-11

Reference 11: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 250
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
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Reference 12: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 13: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef
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Reference 14: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 20: http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/commonPracticeRef
-Topic 470
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Reference 21: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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Reference 22: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1A

Reference 23: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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-Section S99
-Paragraph 1A
-Subparagraph (SX 210.13-01(a)(5))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1A

Reference 24: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1B
-Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(i))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B

Reference 25: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iii)(A))
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Reference 26: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
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-Paragraph 1B
-Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(4)(iii)(B))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B

Reference 27: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Paragraph 1B
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Reference 28: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 470
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-Paragraph 1B
-Subparagraph (SX 210.13-02(a)(5))
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147480097/470-10-S99-1B

Reference 29: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 30
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-30

Reference 30: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-Subparagraph (f)
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Reference 31: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 260
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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Reference 32: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef
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Reference 33: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
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-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

Reference 34: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 205
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 7
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483499/205-20-50-7

Reference 35: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
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-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 45
-Paragraph 28
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482740/230-10-45-28

Reference 36: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 220
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1A
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482790/220-10-45-1A

Reference 37: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 220
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 45
-Paragraph 1B
-Subparagraph (a)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482790/220-10-45-1B

Reference 38: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Topic 220
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(20))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2

Reference 39: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
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-SubTopic 220
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.9-04(22))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483589/942-220-S99-1

+ Details

Segment reporting (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Reconciliation of revenue from segments to consolidated

The following table reflects results of operations of the Company's reportable segments (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Sales:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	110,314	$	109,078	$	112,005
International	22,198		21,830		20,505
U.S. Healthcare	6,570		1,795		—
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	139,081	$	132,703	$	132,509

Adjusted operating income:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	3,689	$	5,029	$	5,019
International	935		726		466
U.S. Healthcare	(566)		(370)		(57)
Corporate and Other	(187)		(251)		(311)
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	3,871	$	5,133	$	5,117

Depreciation and amortization:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	1,362	$	1,415	$	1,513
International	328		355		399
U.S. Healthcare	560		211		1
Corporate and Other	8		9		10
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	2,257	$	1,990	$	1,923

Capital expenditures:
U.S. Retail Pharmacy	$	1,421	$	1,207	$	1,030
International	308		295		243
U.S. Healthcare	375		218		34
Corporate and Other	13		15		5
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.	$	2,117	$	1,734	$	1,312

Reconciliation of operating profit (loss) from segments to consolidated

The following table reconciles adjusted operating income to operating (loss) income (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
Adjusted operating income (Non-GAAP measure):	$	3,871	$	5,133	$	5,117
Certain legal and regulatory accruals and settlements	(7,466)		(768)		(75)
Transformational cost management	(1,181)		(763)		(417)
Acquisition-related amortization	(1,126)		(855)		(523)
Acquisition-related costs	(323)		(223)		(54)
Impairment of intangible assets	(299)		(783)		(49)
Adjustments to equity earnings (loss) in Cencora	(211)		(218)		(1,645)
LIFO provision	(187)		(135)		(13)

Store damage and inventory loss insurance recovery	40		—		—
Operating (loss) income (GAAP measure)	$	(6,882)	$	1,387	$	2,342

Geographic data for net sales

Geographic data for sales is as follows (in millions):


	2023		2022		2021
United States	$	116,883	$	110,873	$	112,005
United Kingdom	8,984		8,894		8,298
Germany	11,211		11,178		10,472
Other	2,003		1,757		1,734
Sales	$	139,081	$	132,703	$	132,509

Geographic data for long-lived assets

Geographic data for long-lived assets, defined as operating lease right-of-use assets and property, plant and equipment, is as follows (in millions):


	2023		2022 1
United States	$	28,951	$	28,710
United Kingdom	3,622		3,663
Other	681		614
Total long-lived assets	$	33,254	$	32,988

1.Fiscal 2022 data has been updated to conform to current period presentation

Summary of major accounting policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of presentation

Cash and cash equivalents

Restricted cash and other cash flows from operating activities

Restricted cash

The Company is required to maintain cash deposits with certain banks which consist of deposits restricted under contractual agreements and cash restricted by law and other obligations.

Accounts receivable

Inventories

The Company’s International segment inventory is accounted for using average cost and the FIFO method.

Property, plant and equipment

The following table summarizes the Company’s property, plant and equipment (in millions) and estimated useful lives (in years):


	Estimated useful life	2023		2022
Land and land improvements	20	$	1,778	$	2,333
Buildings and building improvements	3 to 50	6,683		6,996
Fixtures and equipment	3 to 20	9,782		9,375
Capitalized system development costs and software	3 to 10	3,821		3,087
Assets under construction		1,400		1,785
Finance lease properties		1,075		996
		$	24,540	$	24,572
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization		12,953		12,843
Balance at end of year		$	11,587	$	11,729

The Company capitalizes application development stage costs for internally developed software.

Leases

Finance leases are recognized within property, plant and equipment and as a finance lease liability within accrued expenses and other liabilities and other non-current liabilities.

Business combinations

Variable interest entities

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets

Equity method investments

Financial instruments

•Changes in the fair value of a derivative not designated in a hedging relationship are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.

Cash receipts or payments on a settlement of a derivative contract are reported in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows consistent with the nature of the underlying hedged item.

Pension and postretirement benefits

Pension and post-retirement benefits

Redeemable noncontrolling interest

Redeemable non-controlling interests

Noncontrolling interests

Non-controlling interests

Currency

Commitments and contingencies

Commitments and contingenciesThe Company assesses its liabilities and contingencies for outstanding legal proceedings and reserves are established on a case-by-case basis for those legal claims for which management concludes that it is probable that a loss will be incurred and that the amount of such loss can be reasonably estimated. Substantially all of these contingencies are subject to significant uncertainties and, therefore, determining the likelihood of a loss and/or the measurement of any loss can be complex. With respect to litigation and other legal proceedings where the Company has determined that a loss is reasonably possible, the Company may be unable to estimate the amount or range of reasonably possible loss due to the inherent difficulty of predicting the outcome of and uncertainties regarding such litigation and legal proceedings. The Company’s assessments are based on estimates and assumptions that have been deemed reasonable by management, but that may prove to be incomplete or inaccurate, and unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that might cause the Company to change those estimates and assumptions. Therefore, it is possible that an unfavorable resolution of one or more pending litigation or other contingencies could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements in a future fiscal period. Management’s assessment of current litigation and other legal proceedings, including the corresponding accruals, could change because of the discovery of facts with respect to legal actions or other proceedings pending against the Company which are not presently known. Adverse rulings or determinations by judges, juries, governmental authorities or other parties could also result in changes to management’s assessment of current liabilities and contingencies. Accordingly, the ultimate costs of resolving these claims may be substantially higher or lower than the amounts reserved.

Revenue recognition, Cost of sales

Revenue recognition

Retail and Pharmacy

Wholesale

Wholesale revenue is recognized, net of taxes and expected returns, upon shipment of goods, which is generally also the day of delivery.

Healthcare services

Cost of sales

Retail, Pharmacy and Wholesale

Healthcare services

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Advertising costs

Impairment of long-lived assets

Stock compensation plans

Insurance

Income taxes

Earnings per share

Earnings per shareThe dilutive effect of outstanding stock options on earnings per share is calculated using the treasury stock method. Stock options are anti-dilutive and excluded from the earnings per share calculation if the exercise price exceeds the average market price of the common shares.

New accounting pronouncements

Adoption of new accounting pronouncements

Disclosures by business entities about government assistance

New accounting pronouncements not yet adopted

Acquired contract assets and contract liabilities in a business combination

Liabilities — Supplier Finance Programs

Capital stock	12 Months Ended
Capital stock	Aug. 31, 2023
Capital Stock [Abstract]
Capital stock	Capital stock In June 2018, Walgreens Boots Alliance authorized a stock repurchase program (the “June 2018 stock repurchase program”), which authorized the repurchase of up to $10.0 billion of the Company's common stock, which program has no specified expiration date. In July 2020, the Company announced that it had suspended activities under this program and no shares were repurchased in fiscal 2022 or 2023. As of August 31, 2023, the Company had approximately $2.0 billion remaining under the June 2018 stock repurchase program. The Company determines the timing and amount of repurchases based on its assessment of various factors including prevailing market conditions, alternate uses of capital, liquidity, the economic environment and other factors. The timing and amount of these purchases may change at any time and from time to time. The Company has repurchased, and may from time to time in the future repurchase, shares on the open market through Rule 10b5-1 plans, which enable a company to repurchase shares at times when it otherwise might be precluded from doing so under insider trading laws. In addition, the Company continued to repurchase shares to support the needs of the employee stock plans. Shares totaling $150 million, $187 million and $110 million were purchased to support the needs of the employee stock plans during fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. As of August 31, 2023, 63 million shares of common stock were reserved for future issuances under the Company’s various employee benefit plans.

Income taxes - components of earnings before income tax provision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
U.S.	$ (7,553)	$ 2,998	$ 61
Non–U.S.	2,134	987	1,934
(Loss) earnings before income tax (benefit) provision	$ (5,419)	$ 3,985	$ 1,995

- Definition

Amount of income (loss) from continuing operations, including income (loss) from equity method investments, before deduction of income tax expense (benefit), and income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest.

+ References

Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 944
-SubTopic 220
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.7-04(11))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483586/944-220-S99-1

Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 22
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-22

Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 30
-Subparagraph (b)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-30

Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph (f)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/exampleRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 31
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-31

Reference 6: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 280
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 50
-Paragraph 32
-Subparagraph (c)
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147482810/280-10-50-32

Reference 7: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef
-Topic 942
-SubTopic 235
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.9-05(b)(2))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147479557/942-235-S99-1

Reference 8: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section 25
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-Topic 940
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-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147481913/940-20-25-1

Reference 9: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Topic 220
-SubTopic 10
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 2
-Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03(10))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483621/220-10-S99-2

Reference 10: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef
-Topic 942
-SubTopic 220
-Name Accounting Standards Codification
-Section S99
-Paragraph 1
-Subparagraph (SX 210.9-04(15))
-Publisher FASB
-URI https://asc.fasb.org//1943274/2147483589/942-220-S99-1

+ Details

Segment reporting - results of operations of reportable segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2023	May 31, 2023	Feb. 28, 2023	Nov. 30, 2022	Aug. 31, 2022	May 31, 2022	Feb. 28, 2022	Nov. 30, 2021	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Sales	$ 35,422	$ 35,415	$ 34,862	$ 33,382	$ 32,449	$ 32,597	$ 33,756	$ 33,901	$ 139,081	$ 132,703	$ 132,509
Adjusted operating income									3,871	5,133	5,117
Depreciation and amortization									2,257	1,990	1,923
Capital expenditures									2,117	1,734	1,312
Certain legal and regulatory accruals and settlements									(7,466)	(768)	(75)
Transformational cost management									(1,181)	(763)	(417)
Acquisition-related amortization									(1,126)	(855)	(523)
Acquisition-related costs									(323)	(223)	(54)
Impairment of intangible assets									(299)	(783)	(49)
Adjustments to equity earnings in Cencora									(211)	(218)	(1,645)
LIFO provision									(187)	(135)	(13)
Store damage and inventory loss insurance recovery									40	0	0
Operating (loss) income									(6,882)	1,387	2,342
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Retail Pharmacy
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Sales									110,314	109,078	112,005
Adjusted operating income									3,689	5,029	5,019
Depreciation and amortization									1,362	1,415	1,513
Capital expenditures									1,421	1,207	1,030
Reportable Segments \| International
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Sales									22,198	21,830	20,505
Adjusted operating income									935	726	466
Depreciation and amortization									328	355	399
Capital expenditures									308	295	243
Reportable Segments \| U.S. Healthcare
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Sales									6,570	1,795	0
Adjusted operating income									(566)	(370)	(57)
Depreciation and amortization									560	211	1
Capital expenditures									375	218	34
Corporate and Other
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Adjusted operating income									(187)	(251)	(311)
Depreciation and amortization									8	9	10
Capital expenditures									$ 13	$ 15	$ 5

Segment reporting - narrative (Details) - segment	12 Months Ended
Segment reporting - narrative (Details) - segment	Aug. 31, 2023	Aug. 31, 2022	Aug. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	3
Three Third-Party Payers \| Revenues \| Customer Concentration Risk
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Concentration risk (as a percent)	33.00%	31.00%	33.00%