BOSTON — Walgreens is closing shop in Dorchester — and the writing is on the wall for anyone paying attention.

The company confirmed Thursday it will permanently close its location at 585 Washington Street on September 10, citing “regulatory and reimbursement pressures.” But behind the corporate phrasing lies a harsher reality: retailers in Boston are struggling to survive under Mayor Michelle Wu’s soft-on-crime, anti-business agenda.

City officials won’t say it, but the numbers don’t lie.

According to Boston Police, shoplifting arrests are up 82% compared to last year, and a staggering 230% above the five-year average. Theft is so rampant that major chains now routinely lock up toothpaste, cold medicine, and deodorant behind plexiglass.

Walgreens didn’t mention Mayor Wu in its statement, but it didn’t have to.

“Increased regulatory and reimbursement pressures are weighing on our ability to cover the costs associated with rent, staffing, and supply needs,” the company said.

Translated: Boston’s getting too expensive, too chaotic, and too hostile for business.

The Dorchester store is one of more than 1,200 locations Walgreens plans to close nationwide, but local conditions appear to be accelerating the retreat. Despite Wu’s claims that Boston is “the safest city in America,” rising retail theft, lack of enforcement, and a growing sense of lawlessness are pushing businesses out.

Customers don’t need to take action — Walgreens says prescriptions will be automatically transferred to its 825 Morton Street location, and patients are eligible for free delivery for 90 days.

Still, the loss hits hard. For many Dorchester residents, this was their closest pharmacy — and one of the few retail spaces left that felt safe, staffed, and reliable.

Wu’s priorities may be focused on climate councils and soccer stadiums — but meanwhile, essential services are disappearing in the neighborhoods that need them most.