CVS Health is launching an app that will allow customers access to locked display cabinets “for easier access to merchandise,” according to information sent to Newsweek.
“The enhanced app features new technologies for the consumers’ whole health, providing convenience, savings and ease,” Tara Burke, a press contact for CVS Health told Newsweek.
“This includes the ability for ExtraCare customers to use the CVS Health app to open locked display cabinets for easier access to merchandise.”
Why It Matters
CVS and other major retail chains have started locking up items in stores due to a rise in theft. Some stores locked up items as early as 15 years ago, but the practice became more widely accepted during the COVID-19 pandemic due to an increase in shoplifting.
According to the National Retail Federation’s 2022 National Retail Security Survey, retail theft costs nearly $100 billion a year. Items often locked up include razors, deodorant and technology items.
What To Know
The app is a successor to the CVS Pharmacy app. It is designed to become a single app for consumers’ health experiences.
The app is intended to save customers time and money by offering the capability to open locked display cabinets and speed up in-store prescription pickups with personalized barcodes.
It also allows people to manage their prescriptions for the whole family, schedule immunizations, and access health spending and benefit details.
An AI-powered search in the app helps customers locate products, services and information from CVS Health and select third-party content providers.
Many of the enhancements to the app were underway throughout 2024, according to information sent to Newsweek.
The app is available for download on the Apple app store and Google Play.
What People Are Saying
Tilak Mandadi, executive vice president at CVS Health, said in a press release: “As a company, we are super focused on improving the health care experience. The CVS Health app will make it easier for our customers to access and manage their health and care, save time and money, and make informed decisions about their health.”
Tony Ambrozie, senior vice president and chief digital and technology officer at CVS Health Pharmacy and Consumer Wellness, said in a press release: “The app is the health concierge and guide for all consumers. With 60 million digital customers, we are excited to continue to innovate and bring best-in-class and first-in-industry capabilities to our customers.”
What Happens Next
The unlocking ability is currently being tested in three stores in New York City, with the hope of rolling it out further.
CVS added that the app is just “one of many initiatives underway at CVS Health to improve the health care experience.”
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