CVS/pharmacy certainly is the leader in terms of how to translate reams of shopper data into programs that drive profitable results. It’s been at it for almost 15 years, and its 70 million active cardholders makes for the largest loyalty program in retail pharmacy.

While there is still plenty of room for improvement, a growing number of patients have either already received or plan to receive a flu shot this year compared to one year ago. According to an online survey of more than 900 AccentHealth viewers conducted in September, 57% of patients have received or plan to receive a flu shot this year, versus 53% in 2011. 


An interactive kiosk that allows customers to order prescription glasses and contact lenses online, a special shelf for diabetes products and a new interior design are among the newest features at Rite Aid’s newest version of its Wellness store in Lemoyne, Pa.

Rite Aid was the first to fold in a health-driven component to its loyalty program; as participants move up the Wellness+ ladder, they earn health-related perks, like free healthcare assessments.

Global clothing retailer Uniqlo opened in early October its first flagship store on the West Coast — an architectural gem in San Francisco’s Union Square area that incorporates sleek design and the latest modern technology. 


Seats are going fast for the annual Drug Store News Industry Issues Conference, slated for Nov. 27 in New York City at the New York Athletic Club.

The drug channel has a decent draw among the “silent generation,” the generation of seniors born between 1925 and 1945 who have impressed upon the baby boomers the importance of healthier living in anticipation of better life quality during their own golden years. 


As the healthcare landscape continues to undergo significant changes, a new report by Marketdata Enterprises puts a number against a highly valuable and fast-growing segment of health care that will continue to grow regardless of who is elected president and what happens to healthcare reform: retail-based health clinics.


Another factor greasing the skids for health system/retail pharmacy/clinic alliances is a clear shift in cultural and societal attitudes.

As part of its exclusive Executive Viewpoint video series, DSN editor Rob Eder interviewed Walgreens president and CEO Greg Wasson and president of health and daily living solutions Joe Magnacca for DSN.TV.

As of Sept. 15, California became the eighth state in which Amazon.com will levy sales taxes on purchases made by residents in that state. Pennsylvania joined that group two weeks prior. Add to that the five states that don’t have any sales taxes, and that’s 13 states where national brick-and-click retailers are competing on a level playing field with the pure-play online retail juggernaut. 


Lately a number of mass merchandise retailers have been taking the little road and opening small-format stores in dense, urban areas. One of the most notable of these is CityTarget, which recently opened in Chicago.