DSN_01_2026

FROM THE #1 DERMATOLOGIST- & PHARMACISTRECOMMENDED SKINCARE BRAND†‡

FIGHT DANDRUFF

AND LEAVE HAIR

FEELING SOFT AND SMOOTH

CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner can help eliminate dandruff flakes without disrupting the scalp barrier to leave hair feeling healthy and soft.

• Pyrithione zinc helps eliminate flakes, itch, and irritation

• Ceramides 1, 3, & 6-II help restore and maintain the skin barrier

• Niacinamide helps calm the scalp

• Hyaluronic acid helps maintain hydration

• Free of methylisothiazolinone (MIT) to help avoid skin irritation

• Suitable for sensitive scalps

• Suitable for all hair types and curl patterns

• Suitable for chemically-treated and color-treated hair

SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED DANDRUFF1

†IQVIA, ProVoice Survey: Latest 12 months rolling, ending Sept 2025. ‡IQVIA, ProVoice Survey: June 2–5, 2025.

Reference: 1. Data on file. L’Oreal. Protocol: A 4-week clinical study was conducted on 31 subjects ages 18 to 59 with mild to severe dandruff. CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner were used 3x per week, followed by a 2-week regression.

Explore the benefits of CeraVe Anti-Dandruff Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner

Facebook.com/DrugStoreNews linkedin.com/company/drug-store-news/ instagram.com/dsn_media

34 RETAIL STRATEGIES

Catering to customers on GLP-1 medications could increase sales for retailers

40 INSIDE BEAUTY

Consumers are driving a new wave of innovation that’s boosting sales across mass-market beauty

46 PHARMACY TECH & AUTOMATION

Retail pharmacies are reaping both financial and clinical returns on their technology investments

52 REX AWARDS: VMS

DSN’s Retail Excellence Awards recognizes leaders in vitamins, minerals and supplements

56 HEALTH

In the cough/cold category, online vs. in-store performance depends on urgency level

60 GREETING CARDS

Pharmacies could take of steps to boost engagement among core consumers and underrepresented shoppers in the greeting card aisle

Taking Stock

Community pharmacy is hoping 2026 is the year things change

PHARMACY IS STILL RELEVANT, ESPECIALLY AS MORE STATES RECOGNIZE THAT THE INDUSTRY CAN BE AN IMPORTANT PART OF AN OVERBURNED HEALTHCARE SYSTEM.

Now that we’re in a New Year, it’s a good time to step back and take stock of the current state of community pharmacy. The past year can be summed in one word–mixed.

Let’s first look at the persistent challenges.

Staffing (for pharmacists as well as technicians) remains a concern, reimbursement is a nuisance, drug shortages and price increases are still prevalent, competition from other outlets on the front end and competitors from new pharmacy models are growing and national legislative efforts on PBM reform appear stalled.

Those aren’t the only issues. Store closures are still happening and consolidation continues. In 2025, Walgreens bought 70-year-old West Virginia chain, Fruth Pharmacy. Company head Lynne Fruth said the continued closures of pharmacies are largely due to lower reimbursement rates and PBMs. Perhaps the biggest, though not totally surprising, news of the last year is the shuttering of the Rite Aid chain.

But it’s not all bad news. Pharmacy is still relevant, especially as more states recognize that pharmacists can be an important part of an overburdened healthcare system (Insiders say the country still needs a more unified expanded scope of practice, like Canada).

Another bright spot is that more pharmacists are seeing the benefits of integrating technology and artificial intelligence. AI-powered solutions are helping retail pharmacies run more profitably and deliver better patient outcomes. On top of that, with recent executive orders and deals with pharma companies, American consumers may see lower drug prices in 2026.

So what will we see this year? Will PBM reform finally pass Congress and arrive on the president’s desk? How will the MAHA movement affect vaccine participation and community pharmacy’s place in the healthcare system? Will more states expand scope of practice for pharmacists? Will we see more store closures and how will they affect rural areas and underserved populations?

No matter what transpires this year, executives remain bullish that the industry is positioning itself to be better and stronger in the end. But buckle up; it could be a bumpy ride.

8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Ste. 200 Chicago, IL 60631 773.992.4450 Fax 773.992.4455 www.drugstorenews.com

BRAND MANAGEMENT

Senior Vice President & Publisher John Kenlon 516.650.2064 jkenlon@ensembleiq.com

EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief, Editorial Director Nigel F. Maynard nmaynard@ensembleiq.com

Managing Editor Julianne Mobilian jmobilian@ensembleiq.com

Senior Editor Sandra Levy slevy@ensembleiq.com

Beauty Editor Gisselle Gaitan ggaitan@ensembleiq.com

ADVERTISING

atomas@ensembleiq.com

Regional Manager Steven Werner 312.961.7162 swerner@ensembleiq.com

DESIGN/PRODUCTION/MARKETING

Art Director Catalina Gutierrez cgutierrez@ensembleiq.com

Production Manager Maria del Mar Rubio mrubio@ensembleiq.com

Marketing Manager Kathryn Abrahamsen kabrahamsen@ensembleiq.com

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES List Rental mbriganti@anteriad.com

Subscription Questions contact@drugstorenews.com

New and Noteworthy

HRG’s five notable products from December

1 3

2

In December, suppliers introduced 229 new products, 89 more than the 140 new products they introduced in November. Waukesha, Wis.-based HRG reviewed 12 products in the health category, 125 items in the wellness sector and 92 products in the beauty aisle to see which ones stood out as Products to Watch:

1. Salonpas Arthritis Pain Patch

Hisamitsu’s Salonpas Arthritis Pain Patch is formulated for the temporary relief of mild to moderate pain associated with arthritis, joint pain, sprains and strains. It says the patch contains 3% menthol and 10% methyl salicylate (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and can be used for eight to 12 hours. One pack contains 20 patches.

2. Mentholatum Vapor-Max Ointment

Vapor-Max Ointment by Mentholatum is a cough suppressant that delivers natural camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol in a topical formula. The brand said the ointment delivers up to eight hours of medicated vapors to help relieve chest and nasal congestion, soothe coughs and ease minor aches and pains. The site indicates it is safe for adults and children ages 2 and up. It comes in a 1-oz. jar.

3. AmLactin Calm & Renew Lotion

Advantice Health said its AmLactin Calm & Renew Lotion soothes and hydrates dry, sensitive skin. The lotion contains ginger root to calm, while

4

2% lactic acid AHA is meant to exfoliate to promote natural skin cell turnover for soft, smooth and healthy-looking skin. The company said the lotion is clinically proven to reduce redness and enhance radiance. It’s designed to be gentle enough to use every day on the face or body and is formulated without fragrance, dyes, parabens or phthalates. It comes in a 14.1-oz. bottle.

4. Sensodyne Cavity + Sensitivity Toothpaste

Haleon said its Sensodyne Cavity + Sensitivity Toothpaste defends against cavities and provides sensitivity relief. It’s formulated with an optimized sodium fluoride solution to help strengthen the teeth’s protective layer, while potassium nitrate travels down tubules to soothe nerves and block pain. Company materials indicate that the product is proven to provide 24/7 protection against sensitive teeth with twice daily brushing. It comes in a 2.7-oz. tube.

5. Natural Eyes Floaters Relief tablets

Natural Eyes Floaters Relief tablets by The Relief Products are formulated to address the common symptoms of floaters. The company said the homeopathic tablets are designed to be fast-dissolving and temporarily relieve squiggly lines, dark spots and dust particles in vision. It’s made with eight 100% naturally sourced active ingredients that work gently and safely, the brand said. A bottle contains 70 tablets.

TARGET OPENS CONCEPT STORE IN NEW YORK CITY

Target has opened an immersive, experiential format in New York City focused on style, design and fashion.

The discounter has transformed its 26,000-sq.-ft., two-level store in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood as a “one-of-a-kind concept store where everyday shopping meets play, discovery and style.” The outpost will feature curated fashion and beauty items chosen by influencers and celebrities, seasonal drops and an evolving assortment to keep pace with the latest styles and trends.

The opening comes as Target COO Michael Fiddelke is preparing to take the reins from longtime CEO Brian Cornell in February.

“Guided by incoming CEO Michael Fiddelke’s vision to put style and design at the company’s forefront, Target SoHo reflects Target’s ability to move at the speed of culture, transforming retail into a destination for inspiration and connection,” the company said. “From concept to completion in just four months, the store showcases Target’s agility and ambition to redefine what shopping can feel like.”

Target SoHo highlights

The store features a seasonal edit, “Curated By,” led by the Target team in partnership with NYC “tastemakers.”

The assortment will connect customers to influential voices in fashion and lifestyle, offering a personal glimpse into their favorite Target finds across fashion, beauty and home. Actress and comedian Megan Stalter will kick off the first edit.

A dedicated section on the first floor, “The Drop,” will offer a rotating showcase of merchandise.

Additional store features include:

• Broadway Beauty Bar: Described as a beauty playground designed for experimentation, this area will offer a curation of Target’s best beauty picks, hand-selected by top talent in the beauty space. Customers can explore trending products, try samples and capture content in the “Viral Vanity” studio. At launch, celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes has curated her “must-have” Target beauty picks.

• Gifting Gondola: This photo-ready installation is designed for playful discovery and gifting inspiration. Complete with a convex mirror

for capturing festive reflections, the Gifting Gondola will showcase an assortment of exclusive Target-branded merchandise.

The store also offers plenty of opportunities for selfies and Instagram photos.

“Style and design are part of Target’s DNA, and there’s no better place for us to showcase what’s next for our brand than in one of the style capitals of the world,” said Cara Sylvester, executive VP and chief guest experience officer, Target. “With Target SoHo, we’re bringing together the best of Target and the best of New York—elevasted products, immersive storytelling and an experience that invites guests to explore, express and get inspired. This store is a bold reflection of our commitment to style, and it’s just one part of our larger investment in Target’s design-driven future that grows our roots even deeper in New York City.”

Target said the store will adapt and evolve through 2026 and beyond as it explores how different concepts and products resonate with consumers. Customers can expect new experiential zones, seasonal activations, a café and event programming.

This story originally appeared on sister publication Chain Store Age

Why 2026 Is the ‘Year of the Cat’ and What It Means for Pet

Retailers

By Joe Toscano, Vice President, Trade & Industry Development at Purina

Cat o w n ership i n the U.S. c on ti n ues t o clim b at a n u n precede n ted pace, with 49 milli on h o useh o lds no w shari n g their h o mes with cats , which is a 23 % i n crease si n ce 2023, acc o rdi n g t o the America n Pet Pr o ducts Ass o ciati on . This gr o wth is reshapi n g the pet aisle a n d setti n g the stage fo r 2026 t o b e the Year of the Cat. With m o re c on sumers l oo ki n g t o elevate the way the y f eed , treat a n d care fo r their cats , o pp o rtu n ities acr o ss the categ o r y have n ever b ee n str on ger.

Products Designed Around Cat Parents’ Priorities

Acr o ss o ur cat p o rtf o li o, Puri n a c on ti n ues t o meet the m o me n t with pr o ducts that reflect the ev o lvi n g n eeds a n d e x pectati on s of t o day ’s cat pare n ts. Fr o m elevated te x tures a n d culi n ar y -i n spired recipes t o s o luti on s that simpli fy care, o ur appr o ach ce n ters on maki n g the bon d b etwee n cats a n d their f amilies easier, m o re j oyf ul a n d m o re attai n a b le. Palata b ilit y a n d te x ture-led e x perie n ces are bo th i n flue n ci n g c on sumer b u y i n g decisi on s.

Fa n c y Feast ® Gems® b ri n g re fin ed culi n ar y artistr y t o the bo wl with te n der paté ce n ters wrapped i n elega n t , sav o r y lay ers that fo rm a p y ramid shape pre f erred by eve n the m o st fin ick y f eli n e – per f ect fo r pet pare n ts seeki n g a premium di n i n g e x perie n ce fo r their cats. Mea nwhile, the rise of yo u n ger cat o w n ers has f ueled gr o wth i n i n teractive f eedi n g a n d treati n g. Friskies® Lil’ Licka b les™, a ha n dson treat , a n d Puri n a ONE® Immu n e Supp o rt Purées – licka b le cat treats f eaturi n g Vitami n E a n d Omega- 3 f att y acids – bo th tap directl y i n t o that tre n d by o fferi n g a f u n, e n gagi n g way fo r pe o ple t o bon d with their cats.

Innovation Inside and Outside the Litter Box

With s o ma ny n ew cats e n teri n g h o useh o lds , the litter aisle remai n s on e of the m o st relia b le a n d resilie n t segme n ts i n the pet categ o r y. Premiumiz ati on is shapi n g this space, with c on sumers seeki n g b etter o d o r c on tr o l , simpli fi ed mai n te n a n ce a n d m o re sustai n a b le o pti on s.

Od o r c on tr o l remai n s the t o p pri o rit y fo r litter sh o ppers , a n d Puri n a is addressi n g this n eed with n ew Tid y Cats® Per fo rma n ce o pti on s lau n chi n g i n Ja n uar y, deliveri n g p o wer f ul o d o r c on tr o l desig n ed t o keep h o mes with cats smelli n g clea n . C onve n ie n ce c on ti n ues t o b e

a ke y driver as well , see n i n o pti on s like Tid y Cats® LightWeight o r the Tid y Cats® Bree ze® Litter Sy stem , which simpli fi es upkeep with disp o sa b le pads that l o ck i n m o isture a n d o d o r fo r seve n day s (fo r on e cat , whe n used as directed) a n d pellets that last a m on th.

I nno vati on als o e x te n ds t o the gr o wi n g aut o mated litter segme n t. Puri n a part n ered with Litter-R obo t ® t o devel o p a litter speci fi call y o ptimized fo r the Tid y Cats® The Per f ect C y cle™ setti n g i n the Whisker app, helpi n g c on sumers get the m o st o ut of their aut o mated clea n up s y stems.

Outside the litter box, we c on ti n ue t o sh o wcase o ur scie n ti fi c e x pertise with Puri n a ONE® LiveClear ® – a n i nno vati on b acked by m o re tha n 10 y ears of research – which has b ee n sh o w n t o simpl y a n d sa f el y reduce the maj o r allerge n i n cat hair a n d da n der by a n average of 47 perce n t , starti n g with the third week of dail y f eedi n g. N o w widel y availa b le, Puri n a ONE LiveClear helps cat l o vers with allerge n se n sitivities spe n d qualit y time with their cats.

Helping Retailers Win

Puri n a’s leadership g o es b e yon d pr o duct i nno vati on . We’re c on ti n ui n g t o supp o rt retailers thr o ugh the my Puri n a app, a l oy alt y a n d e n gageme n t platf o rm that rewards

sh o ppers fo r i n teracti n g with the Puri n a p o rtf o li o. The app als o i n tr o duces pet o w n ers t o n utriti on tips , trai n i n g advice a n d c o mpleme n tar y pr o ducts , helpi n g drive b r o ader b asket e x pl o rati on a n d l on g-term e n gageme n t.

A n d , with o ur dedicated categ o r y team , we w o rk hard t o c o lla bo rate directl y with retailers on data- b acked strategies , mercha n disi n g rec o mme n dati on s a n d s o luti on s such as shel f o ptimiz ati on s that d o u b le capacit y fo r larger litter pails , impr o vi n g bo th sales a n d i n -st o ck per fo rma n ce.

As the i n dustr y steps i n t o the Year of the Cat , Puri n a remai n s c o mmitted t o a n ticipati n g c on sumer n eeds a n d helpi n g retailers capture the m o me n tum acr o ss foo d , treats a n d litter. With a r ob ust pipeli n e of i nno vati on an d a h o listic appr o ach t o supp o rti n g cat o w n ers – all b acked by a b e n ch of n earl y 500 Puri n a scie n tists , veteri n aria n s a n d pet care e x perts – we are pr o ud t o help retailers u n l o ck the f ull p o te n tial of this de fin i n g m o me n t fo r the f eli n e categ o r y

COSTCO SUES TRUMP ADMINISTRATION FOR TARIFF REFUND

Costco Wholesale has sued the Trump administration, requesting the Court of International Trade to consider all tariffs collected under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act unlawful, per an NBC News Report.

In a filing on Nov. 28, Costco said it is seeking a “full refund” of all duties under the act paid as a result of President Donald Trump’s executive order that imposed what he called “reciprocal” tariffs.

“Because IEEPA does not clearly authorize the President to set tariffs ... the Challenged Tariff Orders cannot stand and the defendants are not authorized to implement and collect them,” Costco’s lawyer wrote in the lawsuit, per the report.

The report noted that the Supreme Court is reviewing the legality of Trump’s expansive tariff agenda. In oral arguments in early November, justices appeared skeptical about the government’s case to let them continue, the report said.

Both conservative and liberal justices asked hard questions of Solicitor General D. John Sauer, though some of the conservatives seemed more sympathetic to his arguments, the report said, noting that Trump became the first president ever to use the IEEPA law to impose import duties. Lower courts earlier ruled against the administration’s use of the law but kept the tariffs in place while the case was argued.

Costco does not reveal in the filing how much the duties have cost the company. Importers who have paid nearly $90 billion under the IEEPA law, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data through late September, per the report.

In May, on Costco’s earnings call, chief financial officer Gary Millerchip informed investors that about a third of Costco’s

sales in the United States are imported products. Millerchip said items imported from China represented about 8% of total U.S. sales, per the report.

Millerchip said that while Costco was seeking a direct impact from tariffs on imports of some fresh food items from Central and South America, it decided not to increase prices “because they are key staple items” for its customers. Some of those fresh food items included pineapples and bananas. “We essentially held the price on those to make sure that we’re protecting the member,” he said, per the report.

In September, Millerchip told analysts: “We continue to work closely with our suppliers to find ways to mitigate the impact of tariffs, including moving the country of production where it makes sense and consolidating our buying efforts globally to lower the cost of goods across all our markets.”

Through the end of October, the government had collected $205 billion in tariffs.

The report also noted that Costco joins other companies that are seeking tariff refunds through the courts. Revlon, eyeglass maker EssilorLuxottica, motorcycle manufacturer Kawasaki, canned foods seller Bumble Bee, Japanese auto supplier Yokohama Tire and many smaller firms have also filed similar suits, the report said.

REVLON APPOINTS NEW VP OF GLOBAL PROFESSIONAL HAIR

Revlon has appointed a new vice president of marketing innovation, global professional hair. Ariadne Oliveira, who took over the role on Nov. 24, is based in Barcelona and will work on the women’s hair care and styling divisions across the Revlon portfolio.

Oliverira has more than 25 years of experience across the beauty, food and health care divisions, and has worked throughout Europe, the Americas and Asia.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ariadne to Revlon,” said Charles Waters, president of International at Revlon. “Her proven track record of driving transformation, coupled with her passion for innovation and multicultural perspective, make her the ideal leader to take Revlon Professional to the next level.”

“I am truly honored to join Revlon Professional at such a pivotal time for the company and the industry,” Oliveira said. “The professional hair category has immense potential, and I am excited to unlock new opportunities for growth and creativity. Together with this talented team, I look forward to building on the strength of our iconic brands, deepening our connection with consumers and customers, and driving innovation that inspires and empowers the global hair community.”

DOLLAR GENERAL MAKES OFFICER LEADERSHIP UPDATES

Dollar General announced three leadership updates. Matthew Simonsen has transitioned to an expanded role as senior vice president, business intelligence and development from his prior role as senior vice president, real estate and store development. Simonsen will now lead Dollar General’s decision science and analytics team as well as the process improvement team. He will also continue to oversee the company’s real estate strategy, execution and management for Dollar General and Mi Súper Dollar General stores.

Simonsen has extensive leadership experience across DG business functions, previously serving as vice president, analytics and business intelligence; vice president, merchandising and supply chain services and senior director, store operations. Prior to Dollar General, he held roles of increasing responsibility at 7-Eleven and Blockbuster.

April Crofford was promoted to vice president, store facilities management where she will continue to evolve and lead Dollar General’s field maintenance technician program. In partnership with DG’s real estate team, Crofford will also support the execution of DG’s Renovate and Elevate remodel projects.

Initially joining the company in 2016 as a district manager, store operations, Crofford has held progressive leadership roles in DG’s field facilities maintenance department including her most recent role as senior director, store facilities management. Prior to Dollar General, she accumulated more than eight years in retail experience, primarily in merchandising roles. In April 2025, Crofford was named to Chain Store Age’s Top Women in Retail list in the Store Development and Facilities category.

Tito Rydinsky was promoted as division vice president, store operations and will lead operations for more than 2,200 stores across the mid-west and south-central regions. He joined the company in 2018 as district manager, operations and most recently served as senior director, store operations.

Rydinsky has more than 20 years of leadership experience in corporate and field retail store operations from various national retail organizations.

U.S., U.K. ANNOUNCE ZERO-TARIFF DEAL ON DRUGS

The United States and the United Kingdom have reached an agreement that secures a 0% tariff rate for all U.K. medicines exported to the United States for at least three years in return for the country spending more on new medicines, per an ABCnews report and an AP report.

The agreement, announced by U.K. and U.S. officials, calls for the United States to exempt U.K.-origin pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical ingredients and medical technology from import taxes, the report said.

The report also noted that in return, U.K. pharma companies committed to invest more in the United States and create more jobs, according to the Trump administration.

As part of the deal, the U.K. government said it will invest around 25% more in new and effective treatments—the first major hike in such spending in over 20 years, the report added.

“This vital deal will ensure U.K. patients get the cutting-edge medicines they need sooner, and our world-leading UK firms keep developing the treatments that can change lives,” Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said, per the report.

The report also noted that U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the agreement “strengthens the global environment for innovative medicines and brings long-overdue balance to U.S.–U.K. pharmaceutical trade.”

ALBERTSONS DEBUT AI SHOPPING ASSISTANT

Albertsons said its new AI shopping assistant is a web browser experience designed to make grocery shopping faster and more personalized. The shopping assistant moves beyond search to execute complex end-to-end grocery tasks, helping customers complete shopping, from recipe to cart, in minutes.

Building on the success of the company’s Ask AI tool introduced earlier this year, the agentic shopping assistant is a customer-friendly conversational experience powered by many collaborative agents, now available on all Albertsons’ banner websites, including Albertsons AI, Safeway AI and Vons AI.

Powered by Open AI models, the Albertsons AI shopping assistant aims to reduce grocery shopping time from an average of 46 minutes to as little as four minutes by helping customers plan meals, restock essentials, discover new products and shop smarter. The assistant can be accessed on banner web browsers in the Meals Hub and exemplifies agentic commerce, meaning it doesn’t just answer questions, it actively completes shopping tasks for customers, such as:

• Rapid Restock: Quickly reorder weekly essentials and frequent purchases.

• Plan Meals: Generate a practical weekly meal plan and shopping list with deduplicated ingredients added to cart.

• Shop Lists: Type or upload an image of a written grocery list, and the assistant will find personalized products for everything on the list.

• Fridge Cleaner: Discover recipes using what’s already in the fridge and pantry, saving money and reducing food waste.

This vital deal will ensure U.K. patients get the cutting-edge medicines they need sooner, and our world-leading U.K. firms keep developing the treatments that can change lives.”

— Liz Kendall Science and Technology Secretary

• Shop Recipe: Instantly import an online recipe or image and add ingredients to cart.

• Event-Ready: Choose a theme, or let the assistant use the next upcoming holiday, and see curated product ideas with offers.

Expanding into the Albertsons Cos. banner mobile apps in early 2026, the Albertsons AI shopping assistant will launch additional agentic commerce capabilities including budget optimization, in-store aisle location to find a specific product and voice integration. Additionally, the assistant’s multi-agent architecture sets the stage for compatibility with off-platform agents, opening doors for future integrations with experiences like apps in the chat feature, the company said.

Providing Quality Medicines Since 1932

For almost a century, Boiron has provided families with the purest medicines made from the earth’s best resources. From our renowned Arnicare® line, to trusted Oscillococcinum® and Camilia® brands, our expanding range meets the diverse needs of your customers.

*CLAIMS BASED ON TRADITIONAL HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE, NOT ACCEPTED MEDICAL EVIDENCE. NOT FDA EVALUATED.

L’ORÉAL MAKES LEADERSHIP CHANGES ACROSS REDKEN, COLOR WOW AND L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL BRANDS

L’Oréal is making several changes across its Professional Products Division, announcing several leadership appointments across its Redken, Color Wow and L’Oréal Professionnel brands.

The company has made three general manager shifts:

Mounia Tahiri has been named general manager of Redken US. Tahiri previously worked on the L’Oréal Professionnel brand, where she focused on growing Biolage, architecting Ulta’s prestige hair care omni-model and guiding L’Oréal Professionnel past the $100M in sales milestone. She previously led Matrix US Haircare.

Guillaume Duez has been named general manager of Color Wow. Following the closure of Color Wow’s acquisition by L’Oréal, Duez will help lead the brand alongside its founder and CEO Gail Federici. He joined the company in 2010 and has held global and U.S. roles including head of Redken Color, vice president of marketing for Kérastase and Shu Uemura, and also served as general manager of both brands.

Julie Fortier will take over as general manager of L’Oréal Professionnel. Prior to joining the U.S. division, she spent 18 years at L’Oréal Canada, including serving as the general manager for Kérastase and Shu Uemura. In her prior experience with the company, she also helped establish alignment with SalonCentric and brand partners.

WALMART EXPANDS DRONE DELIVERY IN ATLANTA

Walmart is expanding its drone delivery program.

The retailer announced in a LinkedIn post that it’s bringing customers in the Atlanta metro its fastest delivery option yet—Walmart drone delivery powered by Wing.

“Just in time for the holidays, five stores are now offering items delivered in as fast as 30 minutes, expanding access to everyday essentials and redefining convenience. This launch is just the beginning with Charlotte, Houston, Orlando and Tampa up next!” the retailer said.

ABC News reported that Walmart provided Good Morning America with an exclusive look at what it calls a drone nest, where its delivery program launched on Wednesday. The report noted that Walmart became the first retailer to scale drone delivery across five states.

The report went on to explain how the drones work: “They will hover about 150 yards above the ground, then slowly lower the package on a tether and safely release the package once it’s touched the ground. The drones can carry packages up to two and a half pounds, fly within a six-mile radius of a Walmart store avoiding traffic, stop signs and pedestrians. They also follow FAA guidelines and have sensors to avoid obstacles during the delivery.”

WALGREENS ADVERTISING GROUP TEAMS UP WITH ROKT ON AI-POWERED RETAIL MEDIA ECOSYSTEM

Walgreens’ retail media arm is expanding its retail media ecosystem through a new partnership with Rokt.

Rokt leverages e-commerce technology, including machine learning and AI, to make transactions more relevant to each shopper.

“At Walgreens Advertising Group, we are committed to connecting brands with one of the most loyal and engaged consumer bases in the country,” said Abishake Subramanian, group vice president, consumer marketing, Loyalty and Walgreens Advertising Group. “By expanding our retail media ecosystem with AI-powered capabilities, we’re giving advertisers new ways to engage customers in meaningful moments while creating incremental value for Walgreens.”

The agreement enables non-endemic brands to reach consumers on Walgreens.com’s order confirmation page.

“We are very excited to work with a respected household name like Walgreens to deliver real-time relevance for Walgreens Advertising Group’s audience of consumers nationwide,” said Craig Galvin, chief revenue officer at Rokt. “Together, we’re planning to unlock a new monetization channel that enhances the customer experience and delivers measurable performance at scale, while also putting Walgreens’ in-house initiatives at the forefront to maximize the company’s customer experience.”

By introducing non-endemic messaging coupled with relevant first-party offers into the transaction moment, Walgreens Advertising Group can diversify its advertiser mix, unlock new monetization opportunities and deliver more engaging shopper experiences, the companies noted.

Sustaining Price Integrity

It’s not about being the lowest — it’s about being the clearest and most consistent

By Jason Reiser

RJason Reiser is chief executive officer of Market Performance Group

emember how Mondays used to start? Walmart’s weekly Beats Report would hit your inbox, and you held your breath. If your item price had been beaten somewhere else, you knew what came next: price-protection conversations, maybe an unplanned Rollback and an awkward huddle with finance. As a Walmart buyer, I watched that same ritual play out with every vendor. Back then, the week had a tempo. Today, the clock never stops.

Sophisticated AI price monitoring and Amazon’s algorithm have turned a weekly pulse into a livewire. There’s no hiding, no pause button. A single low price anywhere can echo everywhere Amazon isn’t just comparing UPCs. It matches by price per unit across families, sizes and formats. If it’s published, assume it’s visible. That’s how a weekend deal becomes the market price by Tuesday—and why frequent price promotions can punch holes in price integrity that take weeks to close.

Feeling pressed? You’re not alone. Across categories, manufacturers say their No. 1pain point is maintaining price integrity across channels. Transparency, algorithmic matching and relentless promotions are pulling prices lower and keeping them there.

The ripple effects are real: Margin erosion, brand dilution and strained retailer relationships. Add third-party sellers and it’s no surprise that even strong brands struggle to hold the line.

Our first instinct? Fight price with price. But that sprint ends painfully. Undisciplined promotions, club packs without guardrails and siloed, account-by-account decisions only fuel the fire.

Decisions made for one account trigger price cuts in others. Swapping counts without changing consumer value doesn’t fool unit-level matching. And single-use promo codes? They get scraped and spread, with leaks everywhere. Those old “configuration tricks”? They rarely work now.

So how do you win? Not by chasing price drops. Instead, rebuild discipline in an always-on marketplace.

Leaders now treat price integrity as a capability, not a reaction. It’s part of their operating system—governed, data-driven and strategically aligned.

They’re asking new questions:

• Who owns the price in a transparent marketplace?

• How do we align sales, marketing and finance when one decision ripples everywhere?

• How should our assortment, price pack architecture and promotional design evolve to defend value?

These are complex questions, with no one-size-fits-all answer. We’re helping many brands modernize MAP enforcement, rebuild governance and protect brand equity in an AI-driven marketplace.

Quick example: A mid-size health and wellness brand recently faced significant marketplace price erosion, hurting margin and retailer trust. By uncovering root causes of compression and defining targeted actions, they’ve begun regaining control of their narrative and profitability.

They’re not done, but that clarity around the drivers, and a roadmap to address them, has already put them on stronger footing.

Price integrity isn’t about being the lowest. It’s about being the clearest and most consistent. Shoppers reward that. Retailers appreciate it. Your P&L depends on it.

And if you miss those Monday Beats, think of it this way: They once told you where you stood after a weekend; today the feed updates every hour. The principle is the same. You may not beat the algorithm, but you can protect your brand. Those who listen and act with discipline will stay in rhythm with the market. As for the rest? The beat moves on without them.

PHARMACY THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

For some people, pharmacy is in their blood. DSN sat down with some to find out what inspired them to keep their family legacy alive

By Sandra Levy

There’s something about a pharmacy career that is, well, highly contagious. DSN sat down with several pharmacists who were inspired to follow in their relatives’ footsteps and to keep pharmacy in the family.

Whether they are independent pharmacy store owners, work for retail chains or practice at industry associations, these pharmacists have one thing in common: a passion for pharmacy that was ignited by a relative who cared for patients in their communities throughout the years. We even spoke with twins who are both well on their way to becoming pharmacists. Here are their inspirational stories:

“We both chose community pharmacy and share the belief that independent pharmacies are vital to local health care. The heart of our work has always been the same: serving patients with compassion, building relationships and ensuring they receive the best possible care”

—Thomas

McDowell, owner of McDowell’s Pharmacy

Position your pharmacy for growth

The co-branded pharmacy franchise models from Medicine Shoppe International, Inc. can help you grow your business, without sacrificing your independence. Access the advantages of scale, maximize operational efficiencies, drive revenue opportunities and expand patient care in your community.

Consider pairing your trusted pharmacy name with The Medicine Shoppe® Pharmacy or Medicap Pharmacy® to:

• Leverage the strength of a national pharmacy brand while maintaining your local brand presence

• Collaborate with a dedicated Franchise Business Consultant to plan, forecast and monitor all aspects of performance to reach your goals

• Take advantage of our flexible signage model when updating an existing store or expanding into a new community location

• Access a high-performing network providing contract management, best practice sharing, clinical programs and marketing support to drive patient engagement

Scan QR code to contact us today and learn how franchising can help achieve your business goals

The information provided is not intended as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy a franchise. The offer of a franchise can only be made through the delivery of our franchise disclosure document. Medicine Shoppe International, Inc. (MN Franchise Reg. #F-145) Medicap Pharmacies Incorporated (MN Franchise Reg. #F-884) 7000 Cardinal Place, Dublin, OH 43017. New York: This advertisement is not an offering. An offering can only be made by a prospectus filed first with the Department of Law of the State of New York. Such filing does not constitute approval by the Department of Law. © 2025 The Medicine Shoppe International, Inc. All Rights Reserved. THE MEDICINE SHOPPE, MEDICAP, The Medicine Shoppe LOGO, the Pill Capsule design and the Mortar & Pestle design are trademarks of Cardinal Health and may be registered in the US and/or in other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lit. No. 1PD25-3992608 (12/2025)

Kristen Riddle

Kristen Riddle, newly elected president of the National Community Pharmacists Association, and owner of American Home Pharmacy in Clinton, Ark., is a sec ond-generation pharmacist.

Her dad, Eddie Glover, was a pharma cist who graduated from the University of Oklahoma. When Riddle was in high school, her father bought the pharmacy with his business partner. Sixteen years ago, Riddle and her husband, who is a physical therapist, became partners with her parents.

“I wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps and work with him in the pharmacy, so I went to pharmacy school,” Riddle said. She is a graduate of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Pharmacy.

Riddle recalled that when she was young, she would often go to her dad’s pharmacy with her brother to stock shelves and wrap gift items. “We didn’t have computers and the laser printers that we have now. You would type the prescription labels on a typewriter and there were stickers that would go on the bottle,” she said. “Sometimes the labels would fall on the floor. After school I’d clean the floor and help around the store.”

Riddle is nostalgic when she shares how her dad closed the pharmacy on Christmas

“

We have been a family of advocacy for many years. My dad is still involved in the pharmacy world. He handed that torch off to us”

—Kristen Riddle,

NCPA president

Eve and her family would go home and open presents knowing that they had tire-

Witnessing the respect that her dad had in the community and in the pharmacy ignited her desire to become a pharmacist. “I could see how he helped people and invested in those patients. I wanted to do that as well. I wanted to have that impact on those individual patients and families in our community. ”

Riddle praises the camaraderie and mentoring that she received from her father. “He invested in me. His leadership in the community and the pharmacy is how I went about counseling a patient,” she said. For instance, early in her career, Riddle gave patients an overload of information. “I told them everything from how their cholesterol medication worked to all of the possible side effects. I pulled everything out all at one time and it was overwhelming. My dad pulled me aside and said, ‘That patient really doesn’t want to know exactly how the statin works, they want to know how to take it. They will trust you with the rest.’ It was valuable to have that mentorship.”

Riddle also learned to be open to ideas from staffers even if she doubted the ideas could work. “Dad said, ‘You have to listen to all ideas. This one might not work, but

next time it could be the best idea. If you shut them down they won’t come to you with ideas.’”

Riddle’s dad also imparted the importance of advocacy and leadership skills to her. Eddie Glover was very involved in the NCPA and although he is retired, he is still involved with the Arkansas Pharmacy Association.

As a young pharmacist, Riddle traveled with Glover to meetings with NCPA leaders, and to the state capitol where her dad spoke to senators and congressmen about pharmacy and compounding. “My dad was involved with different leaders, and now my husband is running for state representative for our district,” said Riddle, now at the helm of her national post.. She previously led the Arkansas Pharmacists Association and served as a delegate to the United States Pharmacopeia.

“We have been a family of advocacy for many years. My dad is still involved in the pharmacy world. He handed that torch off to us,” she said.

In following in her dad’s footsteps, Riddle is mindful of the importance of her staff: “I call our staff members my pharmacy family. It’s a very family oriented business so when there is true family, there is a connection,” she said.

Joe and Thomas McDowell

When he was growing up, Thomas McDowell—a fourth-generation pharmacist and current owner of McDowell’s Pharmacy in Scotland Neck, N.C., a member of Good Neighbor Pharmacy— saw firsthand how his dad made an impact on patients’ lives, not only by filling prescriptions but by being a trusted voice in the community.

“Watching those interactions showed me that pharmacy was more than a career. It was a calling rooted in service, compassion and relationships. That inspired me to follow in his footsteps and continue that legacy,” Thomas said.

Thomas said that he and his father, Joe, received excellent educations in pharmacotherapy and medication management.

“Those foundations are timeless. My father’s training prepared him to ensure the safe and effective use of medications, and that remains the core of what we do as pharmacists. The main difference lies in the scope of practice and the opportunities available to us at this time.”

Emphasizing that his education at the University of North Carolina placed far greater emphasis on clinical service delivery than his father’s, Thomas said, “These expanded opportunities reflect how the profession has evolved, giving pharmacists the ability to engage patients more directly in their health and play a larger role in preventative and chronic care. In many ways, my education was built on the same strong base as my father’s education, but it positioned me to step into an expanded clinical role that was not as accessible in practice when he began his career.”

When it comes to the career paths that he and his father choose, Thomas said there are

similarities and differences. “We both chose community pharmacy and share the belief that independent pharmacies are vital to local health care. The heart of our work has always been the same: serving patients with compassion, building relationships and ensuring they receive the best possible care.”

Thomas said the biggest divergence in their paths lies in the opportunities available within the profession. His father built his career at a time when the pharmacist’s role was centered on dispensing, counseling and being a trusted healthcare presence in the community.

“My path builds on that foundation by incorporating expanded clinical services, such as immunizations, point of care testing and disease state management,” he said. “These services allow me to take a more proactive role in preventing illness and helping patients manage chronic conditions, while still holding onto the same values and patient-first mindset that guided my father. In many ways, it feels less like a different path and more like an evolution of the one he started, adapting to new opportunities while staying true to the mission of community pharmacy.”

For Thomas, the best part of sharing the profession with a family member is the shared understanding and respect for the work. “Having someone who knows the challenges, the long hours and the responsibility that comes with being a pharmacist is invaluable. It also creates a bond across generations. Our conversations often go beyond family life and touch on how to adapt, improve and innovate in our profession. Having someone like my dad, who I can go to for guidance and wisdom, has been extremely helpful as I continue my journey as a pharmacist and business owner.”

His dad’s side of the story: Thomas’ dad, Joe McDowell, UNC SOP 1981, a third-generation pharmacist and former owner of McDowell’s Pharmacy, said that as the youngest of three children, he was always aware that he was the last chance to continue his father’s and grandfather’s legacy as pharmacy owners in their rural town.

“My dad never put pressure on me, but I did feel like pharmacy was something I

should at least explore,” Joe said. “I saw how respected my dad was in our community, how people trusted him and his passion to help the healthcare needs of his community. He was always accessible, empathetic and so knowledgeable. More than anything, I think I wanted to emulate his example of service to others and try to earn the respect as he did.”

When it comes to comparing their educations Joe said, “I think pharmaceutical innovation has developed many more therapeutic classes and novel medications, so there are a lot more medications to be knowledgeable about. In my schooling, I feel that I may have had a stronger and more diverse background in subjects such as pharmacognosy, pharmaceutical math, as well as some economics and pharmacy management. It would be hard to have had a more thorough preparation for clinical pharmacy than I had, but I’m sure Thomas was in good hands at Carolina.”

When queried about the best part of having a son for a pharmacist, Joe said, “I am so proud of him for accepting the challenge to be the fourth generation to serve in our family pharmacy—which still operates from the original 1901 building—and that he gets to know and help many of the same generations of families which have depended on us for improvements of their health care. His courage, determination and innovations have allowed our pharmacy to stay successful in what has been the most difficult environment I have seen in my lifetime.”

THE WAIT IS OVER...

with National Coverage!

The TRUE METRIX® Brand provides you and your patients expanded access to national managed care plans and state coverage, and is sold under the brand names of the nation’s premier retail drug stores, distributors, and independent pharmacies. tr

National Coverage. Local Presence.

CVS Caremark: Commercial

Express Scripts®: Commercial

Aetna®: Medicare Plans/ Medicaid

Centene: Medicare Advantage (Wellcare)/ Health Exchange (Ambetter)

Elevance Health (Anthem): Medicaid

Humana: Medicare Advantage/ Medicaid

Cigna Healthcare®: Commercial

Molina Healthcare: Medicare Advantage/ Medicaid/ Health Exchange

Kurt

Proctor

Kurt Proctor, senior vice president of strategic initiatives at the NCPA, fondly remembers “growing up” in his father Tom’s drug store, Old Wood Drug, in Cass City, Mich.

Although he didn’t follow his parents in the family business, the lessons he learned from his dad, a pharmacist, and his mom, the drug store’s bookkeeper, inspired his career with NCPA, as well as with the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, where he held numerous titles.

Procter recalled that shortly after he was born, his dad moved from a mid-sized town to one of only 2,000 people and bought the corner drug store. Proctor said, “I grew up working in the store. From middle school age I was officially putting in hours at the store. It was a small town with two pharmacies next door to each other. They were very competitive with each other. My mother was an accountant and she did all the books for the store and my father was the pharmacist and ran the store.”

Although the role was not as defined as it is today, Proctor recalled working at the store in a pharmacy tech role. “I was in the back helping fill prescriptions. The gentleman my father bought the store from was a second-generation owner and he worked for my dad for a number of years. When we got our first computer he said, ‘I’m done,’” he said with a chuckle.

Proctor also helped his father with the pharmacy’s front end, which sold beer, wine, milk, soda, record albums, cassette tapes, car stereo equipment, jewelry, film, magazines, books and candy.

“That was my responsibility. You name it, we had it. I spent a lot of time in the general merchandise business in the front end and crushing boxes and putting them in bins in the back of the store, putting price tags on everything and organizing things, before I got back to the pharmacy side.”

Proctor also helped his mother with the pharmacy’s bookkeeping. “All business was done with checks and every month we’d get a stack of checks. Even before I started working in the store, it was my job to sort the checks in numerical order so my

mom would identify which checks didn’t clear yet and make sure they cleared. I’ve always said I was mostly interested in the business of pharmacy from the get-go,” he said, noting that he always thought that he’d go to pharmacy school.

Indeed, he graduated from Ferris State College, the same pharmacy school where his dad received his PharmD degree. From there, he went straight to graduate school, where he earned a master’s degree and a doctorate from the University of Texas in Austin.

Procter said that his dad was active in the local Rotary Club, served at the district level and eventually became world chairman for the Rotary’s Youth Exchange Program. Proctor said his dad’s leadership contributed to his desire and passion to serve in leadership positions.

After graduate school, Proctor joined NACDS in 1989, and held many positions throughout the years, starting as director of research and information, where he supported policy development work, eventually rising to senior vice president of pharmacy. At NACDS, he was instrumental in starting a PBM, Surescripts and the NACDS Foundation, for which he served as president.

When he arrived at NCPA he was also involved in start-ups, namely Community CareRx and Mirixa with Member Health, the NCPA Innovation Center and Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Network. “There have been a number of times where I’ve been very involved with startups, which has been interesting and not something I specifically sought out,” he said.

The best thing about having a dad who was a pharmacist, said Proctor, was getting exposure to the business, even in hospital pharmacy. “You are an important figure and part of your community,” he said. He recalled accompanying his father —and the town’s other pharmacist— to the hospital in the middle of the night to fill urgent pharmacy needs when the hospital pharmacy was closed.

“In his own store, when it was closed, he’d go in at night and fill prescriptions. My dad was a role model for serving his community. I understood and appreciated the value of these independent pharmacies and owners of how important they were to their community and how respected they were,” Proctor said.

COLD AND FLU SEASON WON’T SEE US

Breathe Right®

Drug-free nasal congestion relief and clearing you can feel right away with our nasal strips and sparkling saline nasal rinse spray.

Children’s Dimetapp®

Parents’ stress-free sick day solution for children’s cough, cold, and allergy symptoms.

NEW fast-dissolving, 24-hour relief of classic indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms.

Campho Phenique®

A powerful cold sore formula that relieves pain and itch, dries the cold sore and moisturizes.

A powerful decongestant nasal spray that quickly relieves sinus and nasal congestion for up to 12 hours. Dristan®

Sean and Stephen Bly

Walgreens’ pharmacy interns Sean Bly and Stephen Bly are identical twins. They are both recipients of Walgreens’ Pharmacy Educational Assistance Program scholarships, and they are attending Ferris State University’s pharmacy program in Big Rapids, Mich. During school breaks, Sean interns at Walgreens inside Harper Hospital, while Stephen works at a specialty pharmacy site in Detroit.

“We’re known as the pharmacy twins,” Sean said. “But to us, it’s just going to school and work, like any other student. We’re learning how to navigate it all by struggling and succeeding at the same time.”

Stephen, who was always interested in medical school, took a pharmacy class in high school. “I was able to get my feet wet early with that class, and it made me realize this is really what I want to do for the rest of my life,” he said.

Rani Saadallah, Christina Hindo, Khulood Yousif

Having a wife and mother who work at a Kroger pharmacy is very special to Rani Saadallah, who has been a pharmacist for eight years. He has held various roles since joining Kroger in 2007 and works in White Lake, Mich.

His wife, Christina Hindo, graduated in 2019 from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and has been with Kroger since 2019. She became a pharmacy leader in 2022 and works in Farmington Hills, Mich.

Saadallah credits his mom, Khulood Yousif—a nationally certified lead technician who also works at Kroger in Southfield, Mich.—for inspiring him to pursue a career in pharmacy.

“Ever since she started working as a pharmacy technician, my mom always took the time to carefully explain the importance of medication in healing and how pharmacists play a vital role in patient care, making it a truly rewarding job,” Saadallah said.

“I’m incredibly proud to have a son and daughter-in-law who are both pharmacy leaders at Kroger. It’s a remarkable achievement,” Yousif said.

Saadallah said the best thing about sharing the pharmacy profession with family members is the opportunity to discuss medication updates,healthcare tips and patient care stories.

Yousif added, “It’s also enjoyable because we can exchange relatable stories on the phone or over dinner and support each other with ideas.”

Hindo echoed her family’s sentiments: “We understand the demands of our work, share stories, exchange ideas and challenge each other, but above all, we support one another because we truly comprehend the profession and its demands.”

Sean, who was interested in medical research, worked at a local Walgreens after finishing his undergrad at Michigan State University and was inspired by staff pharmacists. “They really kind of pushed me to go into pharmacy. They all wanted me to do my best. I took that and ran with it,” he said.

The twins credit their grandma, who was a nurse and who demonstrated her diabetes care routines, for teaching them about the importance of patient empathy and for inspiring them to choose pharmacy as a career.

Before she passed, their grandmother learned of their decision to attend pharmacy school. Sean said it was “the best news she could receive. She was so happy.”

With support from each other and from their family, the siblings’ goal to become full-time Walgreens pharmacists is within reach.

SKY HIGH

Catering to customers on GLP-1 medications could increase sales and credibility for retailers

By Amanda Baltazar

Sometimes referred to as “miracle drugs,” GLP-1 medications are bringing lasting change to many users’ lives.

This category of drugs, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, is used primarily to treat patients with diabetes and for weight loss.

Known by names like Ozempic and Mounjaro, the medications reduce users’ thoughts of food, disposing them toward wanting to eat less and to eat healthier.

The numbers are large. According to Circana, a Chicago-based market research firm, 23% of households use GLP-1 medications, said Sally Lyons Watts, global executive vice president and chief advisor, consumer goods and foodservice

insights, in a November 2025 webinar, “GLP-1 Unlocked: Retail Impacts in a New Era of Accessibility.” And the prevalence of consumers taking these medications is increasing. Lyons Watt reported that 2.9 million more consumers are filling prescriptions for them than was the case a year ago—an increase of 16%.

Circana data shows that the bulk of people–61%—taking GLP-1 meds are doing so for weight loss. But it seems every day there’s talk of other conditions these medications can help, including dementia, cardiovascular health and sleep apnea.

Add to that, the drugs will soon be cheaper and also be available in pill form which will “really blow it up,” said Leigh O’Donnell, head of shopper and category insights at Kantar.

These numbers are only expected to get bigger. According to advisory company KMPG, the global GLP-1 market is forecast to grow at a 29.6% compound annual growth rate through 2030. Morgan Stanley estimates that the global market will be worth $150 billion in the next 10 years.

The problem for retailers is that by eating less, these consumers are buying less. In fact, according to KPMG, 31% of these consumers spend less on groceries every month.

Retailers need to step it up a little. Most major retailers don’t yet have an in-store or shelf strategy that addresses GLP-1 users. It’s time to get educated”

—Leigh O’Donnell, head of shopper and category insights, Kantar

Retailers need to adapt

These are big numbers and they represent an opportunity for drug stores. A study last spring by Acosta Group showed retailers need to adapt to these consumers.

Acosta’s study revealed that GLP-1 users want more beverages, yogurt, nutrition bars, fresh produce, lean proteins and highprotein snacks. And they want fewer sweet or salty snacks, soda pop, carbs, fried foods and alcohol.

While drug stores don’t typically carry fresh produce or proteins, she said, they can focus on the packaged products. Water of all kinds, she explained, is an opportunity, since some users of GLP-1s find the drugs cause dehydration. And drinks fortified with vitamins, electrolytes, probiotics and even protein can be particularly appealing.

KPMG’s research shows consumers want more healthy snacking options, especially with protein; healthier carbonated beverages with fewer ingredients or healthier ingredients, and overall more healthy products and fewer processed foods. Even alcohol is taking a hit. These customers are also spending more in

the health and beauty aids section of stores, according to NielsenIQ. Earlier on this tends to be products for gastrointestinal health, vitamins and supplements, as consumers grapple with initial GLP-1 side effects (which often go away), but this becomes other products as consumers seek to enhance their looks as they feel better about themselves. “So they’re pretty valuable consumers,” said Sherry Frey, vice president of total wellness at NielsenIQ.

In addition, 75% of people in a recent study by Kantar picked up their initial prescription at a drug store, and drug stores tend to remain top of mind for prescriptions so there’s a huge opportunity, O’Donnell pointed out. “Drug’s got a lot of tailwind with GLP-1s.”

And these customers are changing where they shop, based on who’s adapting to their new needs. According to data from Kantar, 46% of GLP-1 users say they have a new go-to retailer, often because they’re seeking stores that better support their evolving dietary needs.

Who is doing a good job? Not many stores. Walmart.com has a protein, fitness

and weight management page; and GNC stores have a section dedicated to GLP-1 users, featuring products like anti-nausea medication, supplements and satiety products.

Grocery chain Hy-Vee stands out. It has an end-cap close to the pharmacy featuring items like protein shakes, probiotics, digestive and bone health supplements and fiber supplements. Stores also promote their personalized dietitian counseling to develop nutrition plans on these end-caps.

“By making these products and resources more visible within our stores, we’ve been able to help more individuals manage their medication side effects, and in turn, support their medication adherence,” said Elisa Sloss, assistant vice president, HealthMarkets & Dietitians. “These displays are designed to inform and educate consumers about the resources available to them.”

“Retailers need to step it up a little,” said O’Donnell. “Most major retailers don’t yet have an in-store or shelf strategy that addresses GLP-1 users. It’s time to get educated.”

Creating a category

Drug stores that want to meet these customers’ needs could create a specific section to make products related to GLP1 medications easier to find and browse, said Kathy Risch, senior vice president of shopper insights and thought leadership at Acosta Group.

“For drug stores it’s a great way to reinvent themselves,” she said. “They need to create occasions so they’re a resource for healthier items.”

Stores can simply add these items or create an entire category for GLP-1 users, Risch said. This could include healthier foods and beverages, supplements for nutritional needs including vitamins and fiber; cough drops and mints because GLP1 users report having a dry throat and bad breath and even products to help with the side effects, which are most commonly nausea, fatigue and bloating. Acosta’s study revealed that 85% of consumers suffering side effects purchase additional products.

Andrew Lindsay, principal, consumer and retail strategy lead, KPMG, also thinks

this leaves plenty of opportunity for drug stores, especially at the front of store point of sale, where a lot of impulse sales happen.

But they should also think about product placement and focus on how the consumer navigates the stores, he says. Since shoppers visiting drug stores for GLP-1 medications head for the pharmacy, it could be a good idea to place food options back there. “Maybe even creating a wellness zone of snacks could be helpful,” he said. “Or focusing around supplements and thinking about the nutrition those consumers are seeking.”

“For drug, this is an opportunity to embrace the ripple effect,” said Lyons Watt. “Embrace the medication, the food and beverages they want to consume, the trackers, the makeup and grooming products. Embrace this GLP consumer in a way that embraces their lifestyle journey.”

On top of this, she pointed out, since the cost of GLP-1 mediations is currently so high, the shoppers taking these medications tend to be higher income consumers. “So it’s a very attractive consumer, but it’s going to

broaden and it’s going to broaden fast (as prices come down), and it’s important to attract consumers no matter what income. This is the time to really get behind it.”

This category would work well at the back of a drug store, Risch said, “so the shopper would be able to see and conveniently shop it when they’re getting their drug refill but the pharmacist can also help them with it.”

Lyons Watt liked the idea of a GLP-1 section toward the pharmacy, which is a trusted area. It could even merchandise products to consumers waiting in line to pick up prescriptions.

Help and educate

While drug stores can boost sales of GLP-1 focused products, they can also become a trusted resource for Americans taking these medications. “There’s huge opportunity for drug stores to educate,” Risch pointed out. She said that consumers trust their preferred retailer and that drug stores, whose business is health, “are already a more credible source.” But, she adds, “retailers are not leveraging that fully.”

The drug channel, said Frey, “can be the point of truth for the consumer.”

Drug stores, she said, can offer printed material in stores or verbally through the pharmacy. They can also optimize digital channels like their website or app, “to educate, help consumers choose the right products, and be a helpful friend in guiding them to the right products. It’s very important for retailers and manufacturers to have a strong voice with helpful facts.”

Two

And pharmacists rank high when it comes to trust, said Lyons Watt. “There is so much confusion, [but] the pharmacist is a trusted resource.” This gives drug stores an advantage, she pointed out. Pharmacists could answer questions about drugs but also diet, or they could include a nutritionist or dietitian on staff. “I’ve got to believe there would be an incremental boost in getting that type of one-on-one engagement.”

Small and targeted products

Consumers of all ages are taking GLP1 medications and of them, according to Acosta, 91% of millennials, 90% of Gen Z and 64% of Gen X are interested in packaged foods that support their weight loss goals. They also want clear messaging on packages. This means fortified foods, especially with a focus on protein but also products in smaller sizes.

The Trade-Off Consumer Survey by data analytics firm Big Chalk in the spring showed that around 33% of GLP-1 users are buying smaller pack sizes. They just don’t eat that much. They’re happy with half the portion they used to have,” said Rick Miller, partner.

The survey shows that the caloric reduction for patients on a GLP-1 diet ranges from 16% to 39%. And while they want to eat less unhealthy food, he said, their desire to eat in general has gone down even more.

One food manufacturer that’s bringing changes is Conagra.

A year ago, the company added “GLP-1 Friendly” badges on 26 Healthy Choice items and is looking for opportunities to add more products to this collection, said Alexa Longarini, Healthy Choice brand manager.

The products are doing well and “have been turning two times faster than competitive single-serve items with on-pack GLP1 positioning,” she said.

These products are designed to meet customers’ specific needs as they take GLP-1 medications.

“Because these medications suppress appetite, nutrient intake is critical. Showcasing our meals as accessible and healthy options with the right ingredients that help meet their needs gives them a reason to try Healthy Choice,” Longarini claimed.

But it’s also important to make sure the GLP-1 badge is distinct. “Grabbing a con-

sumer’s attention in the grocery aisle is difficult, so the messaging must be simple and distinctive,” she said. And since the two collections, Café Steamers and Simply Steamers, are grouped together on the shelf, “there’s collective visibility around the products.”

Conagra’s not alone. Last year Nestle launched Vital Pursuit high-protein, vitamin- and mineral-enriched ready meals as “dietary support” for consumers taking GLP-1 medications. Smaller brands are getting into the game, too. Earlier this year, Two Spoons Creamery in Los Angeles launched a high-protein ice cream with “GLP-1-friendly ingredients” and Sweet Freedom, which offers drinks, syrups and sauces, tells consumers it is “perfect for GLP-1 users.”

Because consumers are often looking for smaller portions or single portions of products, this can be an opportunity for drug stores, said Lyons Watt. Offering them, even if they’re not the most healthy, can go a long way toward satisfying a GLP-1 appetite.

BMass Appeal

Consumers are driving a new wave of innovation that’s boosting sales and reshaping strategies across mass-market beauty

uilding on the strong sales momentum generated in 2025, mass-market retailers aim to keep beauty sales on an upward trajectory.

Mass marketers posted greater growth than prestige from January through September 2025, reversing a three-year trend in which premium sales outpaced the market, according to data from Circana (a Chicago-based market research firm).

Fragrances, lip products, hair care and face serums were among the best sellers in 2025 and are expected to remain strong this year. Rising prices and an uncertain economy could drive more shoppers to affordable mass brands in 2026. Retailers are ready. Walmart is going all in on adding brands and offering beauty bars during seasonal events. Target is amplifying its position in mass fragrances and adding more lip brands.

CVS is putting muscle behind skin care and wellness. The chain named dermatologist Dr. Camille Howard as its firstever beauty dermatologist advisor and fortified its effort behind in-store beauty consultants, according to Michelle LeBlanc, vice president of merchandising for beauty, personal care and Hispanic strategy team at CVS Health.

Rachael Vegas, chief commercial officer at Walgreens, vows to supercharge the retailer’s front end. “We have 8,000 doors and we have customers walking in all day long. I think there is a foundation for success there,” she said of opportunities to augment pharmacy transactions.

Here, industry experts reveal their forecasts for beauty in the new year.

Jeremy Lowenstein Chief Marketing Officer, Milani

Cosmetics:

We continue to be energized by Milani’s momentum and the strong outlook for the brand. Milani is strategically positioned to appeal to a broader spectrum of consumers, which has led to strong growth across all our retail partners with outpaced category growth across the Primer, Tinted Moisturizer and Face Powder segments.

Milani is building on its leadership and heritage in complexion, as demonstrated by our 2025 launch of the Conceal + Perfect Blur Out Skin Tint Sticks, which we expect to continue to be a strong performer. Our success in mascara continues as well, supported by the addition of a new brown shade to our Lash Extensions Tubing Mascara lineup.

We’re also seeing encouraging growth across lips and multibenefit products. Milani’s new Keep it Full Plumping Lip Liners are driving renewed excitement in the lip category, while lip balms, supported by our new Keep it Full Glossy Plump Balm, are experiencing significant growth reminiscent of the surge we saw with lip oils. What sets our lip balms apart is their unique duality—they function as both a balm and a plumper, powered by peptides, aligning with consumers’ demand for products that offer multiple benefits and deliver meaningful results.

You asked, We listened!

Leading with innovation, superior quality, and first-hand consumer insights, the NEW KISS delivers an enhanced shopping experience and results retailers can count on in the fashion nail category.

Emilio Smeke CEO, Esponjabon:

The wellness boom shows no signs of slowing, and neither does Esponjabon. Building on the cult success of the viral Mother of Pearl soap sponge, the brand is unveiling a bold new look designed to captivate today’s beauty consumers—without compromising what made it iconic. As the category evolves, Esponjabon remains rooted in its original ethos: making skincare simple, satisfying, and accessible. With new formulas like Neutral and Hyaluronic Acid joining the lineup, the upgraded design positions the brand for growth while honoring the heritage formula beloved by millions. A modern, shelf-ready aesthetic makes it more relevant than ever for the fast-moving drugstore and mass beauty channel. For Esponjabon, this isn’t just a relaunch— it’s the next chapter in beauty innovation, one where multifunctional formats meet elevated rituals.

Katherine Morón CEO, Tu Azul:

The trends taking shape in 2026 feel distinctly consumer driven, rooted in wellness, authenticity and a deeper understanding of hair health. One of the biggest shifts is the rise of scalp care as a central part of the beauty routine. People are beginning to treat the scalp with the same intention they give their skin, creating space for lightweight botanical treatments designed for everyday use. At Lola From Rio, we’ve seen this evolution

firsthand with our Rapunzel Tonic, which has become a staple for customers seeking healthier-looking roots without heaviness or residue.

Another major shift is the continued momentum in textured hair innovation. Consumers with curls, waves and coils want products that honor and enhance their natural pattern, and the industry is finally catching up. Our Meu Cacho Minha Vida Combing Cream and Jelly Gel have seen significant growth because they offer definition without buildup and allow texture to shine. As this category expands, so are we, with new curl-focused launches on the way for textured-hair consumers looking for performance, hydration and ease. Wellness culture is also reshaping how people choose their hair care. Customers now want products that support their lifestyle. It reflects a broader shift toward products that support the rhythm of an active life rather than just a styling moment.

Deborah Dixon

Owner/Founder, OUT OF MOUNTAINS; Precious Mineralz LLC: OUT OF MOUNTAINS skin care for men and women is built on innovation and results. We know of no other company incorporating halloysite, a nanotubular clay that delivers key ingredients—such as peptides and hyaluronic acid—deep into the skin with time-release precision. Consumers focused on skin health can trust that our products are vegan, crueltyfree, clean and packaged in recyclable containers.

In 2026, men’s skin care will continue to grow. We launched our men’s line in mid2025 with five core products for skin care and grooming, and we’ll be expanding that offering with additional items next year. We are also developing hair care products and a daily moisturizer with SPF. Our philosophy centers on prevention, not just treatment and repair, and new formulations will incorporate many of the ingredients already proven effective in our current collection.

Juan Morillo Office Manager, OKAY Pure Naturals: In 2026, beauty is moving toward skinbarrier wellness, natural ingredients and simple nourishment. Consumers are gravitating toward products that feel gentle and supportive rather than harsh or overly clinical—a space where OKAY Pure Naturals already excels.

Our 100% Pure Oils, African Shea Butter, African Black Soap and our new Batana Collection all reflect this shift. Batana is especially exciting because it repairs damaged hair, supports scalp health and provides deep moisture for both hair and skin. It taps into the growing demand for powerful botanical ingredients. The broader trend toward sustainability and minimal routines also plays to our strengths, giving our multi-use oils and butters a natural advantage and laying the groundwork for potential future innovations such as packaging updates or refill systems.

Another defining trend for 2026 is the blending of hair, body and wellness into a unified experience. Consumers want routines that feel like self-care, with attention to texture, scalp health and simple daily rituals. OKAY’s Black Jamaican Castor Oil, Coconut Curls line, body butters, turmeric soaps and the Batana Collection all support this movement. Batana, in particular, has become a hero ingredient for repairing and defining textured hair.

Shalimar Dalal Maakar

CEO, Obliphica Professional:

I’m inspired by the shift toward ritual over routine—consumers looking for products and experiences that transform self-care into a sensory, restorative moment. That ethos aligns with our mission: to elevate everyday hair care into a luxurious wellness ritual that delivers transformative results for both hair and scalp.

Longevity in beauty is increasingly defined by prevention, protection and cellular resilience. Just as skin care has moved toward maintaining healthy function rather than simply reversing visible signs of aging, hair care is following suit. We’re formulating with powerful natural actives like seaberry (sea buckthorn) to help restore balance and protect the scalp’s biome, preserving hair integrity at every stage of life.

Will Henderson

Founder, Skincare Generics:

AI-driven skin care tools are reshaping the drug store aisle in a major way. More consumers are using apps that scan their skin, analyze ingredient lists or build personalized routines. That means brands need to be exceptionally clear about what’s in their products and how they fit within a regimen. We view this as a positive shift. At Skincare Generics, we list every ingredient and keep our formulas straightforward, making it easier for both people and technology to evaluate our products based on facts— not hype.

Vera Oh

Co-founder and CEO, VOESH: These are the four major trends we’re seeing. Sensorial performance and pleasure now go hand in hand. Products must feel indulgent and deliver visible results. Think silky textures, moodlifting scents and active ingredients like glycolic acid, squalane and probiotics— all in one formula.

Body care is getting smarter. Skin caregrade ingredients and delivery systems are moving beyond the face. Consumers expect hydration, exfoliation and microbiome care from head to toe. Korean beauty is inspiring more than just facial care. Layered, ritual-driven routines are expanding into bath and body. Textures, fermentation and ingredient stories are leading the way. Clean is the starting point, clean itself is no longer a differentiator. It’s expected. What matters now is how brands combine clean formulas with clinical results, skin compatibility and sustainable choices.

Janell Stephens

Founder and CEO, Camille Rose: In 2026, beauty and hair trends continue to move toward simplicity, speed and texture-centered care. Across our core consumer, 56% to 70% say they want to spend less time on their hair. Search behavior reflects this mindset, with “detangling” ranking as the fourth trending search, only behind Modern, Low Maintenance and Textured. This highlights a growing desire for manageability and wash-and-style moments that give consumers back time across all curl patterns. These data points align with broader category momentum. Mousse is the fastest growing form in hair

care, with more than 1.5 million Google searches, and more than 452,000 TikTok searches. Formats that offer slip, hold and low-effort styling continue to accelerate. Ingredient-led discovery is also exploding. The Guava trend on TikTok has generated 83.2 million total views, while Batana sits at 4.9 billion total TikTok views. Volume-led styling and natural texture also continue to rise. Big hair has become visible across runways, celebrity styling and social feeds, reflecting a renewed interest in ‘80s-inspired fullness. Afros in particular have seen renewed visibility. The Camille Rose Guava Slip and Batana Oil collections were built for exactly these shifts. The Batana Oil Collection—the Batana Miracle Oil ’Fro Mousse, the Batana Oil Miracle Balm and the Batana Oil Honduran Miracle—meets the surge in interest around nourishing oils by focusing on fullness, softness and health. With Afros and volume-driven shapes continuing to gain traction into 2026, the ’Fro Mousse resonates as a multi-benefit styler that amplifies the appearance of big Afros with volume, definition and hold. These collections map cleanly against the biggest data-supported trends of 2026: faster routines, detangling-focused claims, ingredient-led discovery, moussedriven category growth and the rise of voluminous textured styles.

33,000+

Tech Takeover

Retail pharmacies are reaping both financial and clinical returns on their technology investments

By Julie Gallagher

Adecade ago, most pharmacy technologies centered on prescription filling. Today, retail pharmacies are embracing more sophisticated and interconnected digital platforms, advanced automation and data-rich tools that shift the pharmacy’s role from a dispensing destination to a patient-care hub.

Leaders from the pharmacy technology industry say a new wave of investment—spanning AI-enabled workflows, central-fill solutions, telepharmacy and unified digital systems—is helping reduce labor-intensive tasks and enabling a focus on higher-value clinical services that elevate patient care.

DSN asked a handful of providers to weigh in on how technology is redefining patient care.

How has pharmacy-related technology changed in the last 10 years?

Kate Helf, VP of brand and operations, IPC Digital Health LLC: Over the last decade, technology in independent pharmacy has really shifted from being about transactions to being about relationships. It’s no longer just focused on dispensing. It’s about using digital tools to improve adherence, expand clinical services and strengthen patient engagement.

We’ve seen major advancements with digital refill reminders, mobile apps and even telepharmacy making care more accessible and convenient. At the same time, automation and AI-driven workflows are taking on more of the administrative load, which gives pharmacists more time to do what they do best: care for their patients.

Brian Sullivan, principal, pharmacy solutions, North America, KNAPP: Ten years ago, most retail pharmacies were focused on in-store automation—things like tablet and capsule dispensing systems. These solutions often had mixed results because they were complex and didn’t always integrate well. Central fill technology was starting to appear, but it was mainly seen as a way to offset costs, not as a strategic shift.

Today, the landscape looks very different. Margin pressure, workforce shortages and the opportunity for pharmacies to offer profitable clinical services have driven a rethink. Retailers are now moving maintenance medication fulfillment out of the store and into centralized, highly automated facilities. At the same time, in-store technologies have evolved to reduce manual touches and streamline workflows. This frees up pharmacists and techs to focus on clinical activities that improve patient care and generate revenue.

mission: zero touch

Reinvent Pharmacy

Less Complexity. More Time. Transform pharmacy by automating virtually every aspect of prescription filling and pickup.

Scott Pearson, VP-GM strategy and innovation, McKesson: We have seen pharmacy technology undergo significant transformation over the last decade. The technology has evolved from fragmented, transaction-based systems to more connected digital ecosystems. Retail pharmacies are increasingly transitioning from being points of sale to becoming points of care—enabled by data, interoperability and digital-first engagement models. Retail pharmacies, once primarily focused on dispensing medications, are increasingly adopting digital platforms that support supply chain visibility, clinical insights and enhanced patient experiences.

McKesson aims to simplify how pharmacies engage with us across ordering, inventory, analytics and clinical workflows, empowering pharmacists to spend more time with patients and improve medication adherence to deliver better health outcomes.

David Pope, chief pharmacy officer, XiFin: There has never been a more critical time for the use of technology in pharmacy. With evolving patient needs such as test and treat, immunizations and specialty medications combined with staffing challenges, operational inefficiencies, new legislative initiatives and tighter reimbursement—the demand for interoperable, purpose-built technology has never been greater. Leveraging more than 25 years of experience in pharmacy and diagnostic innovation, XiFin empowers pharmacies to expand clinical care, streamline operations and improve financial health.

Darin Gleason, sales director, U.S. Chain and Retail, ScriptPro: Pharmacy technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Many can still remember when vial labels were generated on a typewriter. Today, pharmacies rely on software solutions to manage nearly every aspect of their operations—including insurance processing, clinical services, billing, medication synchronization, inventory management and countless other tasks. Pharmacy automation has followed a similar trajectory. Modern systems are

designed to maximize both speed and safety, enhancing a pharmacy’s ability to care for patients while maintaining high production levels. Features like barcode scanning and image capture now enable teams to produce and verify prescriptions with greater accuracy and confidence than ever before. These tools are critical in an environment that changes daily with the introduction of new medications, new generic manufacturers and the constant churn of NDCs in the wholesaler ordering process.

Are your retail pharmacy customers investing in new technologies that enhance efficiency?

Helf: Yes, we’ve seen a real shift in how independent pharmacies approach technology. While some owners may still be cautious, we’re seeing more and more invest in tools that streamline operations and free up time to focus on patient care. Many are adopting workflow automation, digital marketing and patient engagement platforms that reduce administrative work and free up time for clinical services. Others are embracing digital health solutions like telepharmacy or AI-driven refill systems to better serve their communities. Owners are more open than ever to exploring alternative strategies that not only strengthen their business but also set them up for longterm growth and innovation.

Sullivan: Absolutely. They’re investing in two main areas:

Central Fill Solutions: If they can take maintenance medication fulfillment out of the store team’s hands, they do it.

In-Store Automation: Technologies like those KNAPP provides are being adapted to eliminate additional manual steps and improve efficiency.

The goal is simple—reduce labor-intensive tasks and allow store teams to focus on higher-value clinical services.

Pearson: Retail pharmacy customers are investing more strategically in tech-

nologies aimed at improving operational efficiency and supporting scalable, data-enabled business models. We see strong adoption of cloud-based solutions, AI-driven inventory optimization and unified digital ordering experiences that streamline administrative tasks and enhance pharmacy performance. MomentimRx continues to partner with various stakeholders to develop technologies that automate routine processes, enhance workflow intelligence and reduce operational costs. The overall trend indicates that pharmacies are shifting from reactive technology adoption to strategic digital investment, focusing on long-term efficiency, resilience and patient-centered growth.

Pope: Whether we’re talking to large retail pharmacy chains, grocery stores or regional chains or independents, increasing operational efficiency as well as medical claim reimbursement is always top of mind. Especially with ECAPS (Equitable Community Access to Pharmacist Services Act) on the horizon, pharmacies realize that now is the time to modernize workflows, strengthen billing and documentation systems, bolster technology infrastructure and prepare for a new era of care delivery and revenue growth.

In addition, as more services fall under medical benefit billing, pharmacies require the right technology to efficiently handle these complex claims. XiFin® Empower RCM for Enterprise Pharmacy offers an integrated, enterprise-grade system that connects clinical documentation, pharmacy management systems, payor electronic data integration (EDI), patient engagement and analytics—all within a single technology solution. At XiFin our goal is to make it easier to be a pharmacist and a patient, so pharmacies can better meet the needs of the communities they serve.

Gleason: In today’s challenging environment, retail pharmacies must invest in technologies that increase efficiency or risk falling behind. The current reimbursement model forces pharmacies to

A broad range of pharmacy solutions

CRS 150 – Compact powerhouse. 150 vials hourly in just 9.5 sq. ft.

SP 200 – Precision dispensing with 6- or 12-Slot patient organization system. Fills, labels, and collates up to 150 vials per hour.

ScriptPro delivers operational, financial, and clinical solutions backed by 30 years of pharmacy management expertise. Trusted by thousands of retail pharmacies worldwide, we streamline operations, reduce wait times, and lighten staff workload with advanced robotics and integrated software. Our technology automates vial filling, inventory, payments, eligibility, reimbursement,

800.606.7628 | scriptpro.com

MP 100 – From cassette to patientready in seconds. 54 pouches per minute.

and more – freeing pharmacists to focus on patient care. Whether you’re a chain or an independent pharmacy, ScriptPro helps pharmacies thrive today and in the future.

Script your success story with a tailored strategy session. Contact us today!

make tough business decisions to remain viable. When it comes to automation, many pharmacies face two paths: doing more with less or growing by adding new services and revenue streams. Both options require streamlined workflows and maximum operational efficiency. Technology allows pharmacies to complete the same amount of work in a 10hour day with fewer staff and lower labor costs. For those pursuing growth, it also creates capacity to reassign team members toward higher-value activities such as implementing new services and revenue centers. Solutions like ScriptPro’s MP 100 pouch packaging system can support this expansion by offering customized medication packaging—ideal for long-term care facilities, nursing homes, and patients requiring high levels of adherence.

What sort of return on investment are they realizing? Please explain.

Helf: We’re seeing independent pharmacies realize returns on both the financial and clinical sides. Financially, technology is helping improve efficiency, reduce labor costs and even boost prescription volume through things like adherence and med sync programs. Clinically, these tools allow pharmacists to take a more proactive role in patient care: improving outcomes, building stronger relationships and driving long-term loyalty. Of course, ROI looks a little different for every pharmacy, but the ones that have leaned into digital solutions are clearly better positioned to grow, retain patients and succeed in care models that reward quality outcomes.

Sullivan: For central fill, the ROI is significant. KNAPP’s solution is the most automated option available, so customers can fill prescriptions for pennies instead

of dollars. If they can shift 40–60% of their maintenance meds to central fill, the savings are enormous.

On top of that, the staff who were previously filling prescriptions—often at a loss—are now freed up to provide clinical services that generate revenue. So the ROI isn’t just cost savings; it’s also new income streams and improved patient engagement.

Pearson: Pharmacies that have embraced digital transformation are realizing both operational and strategic returns. In addition to financial outcomes, pharmacies are building stronger patient loyalty, expanding service lines and gaining the agility to adapt in a rapidly changing regulatory environment. These technology investments are not just about efficiency—they are about redefining the role of the pharmacy within the healthcare ecosystem. Through our ongoing investments in data, digital infrastructure, and platform unification, McKesson is helping retail pharmacies move from a cost-focused model towards one that emphasizes value creation within the broader healthcare system.

Pope: What we’re seeing is that as organizations embrace technology, they start to relieve various pressure points throughout the pharmacy, such as operational inefficiencies, staffing issues, or medical billing challenges, that allow them to continue to add clinical services and get paid for them, improve patient care, and grow revenue. It all starts with XiFin Empower RCM. Through this technology we help pharmacies move from inefficient, sometimes manual processes to an end-to-end solution with embedded AI that’s fully automated. Pharmacies benefit from capabilities such as real-time eligibility and benefits verification, prior authorization

workflows, denials and appeals automation, patient billing management and business intelligence. Plus, it can be initiated within workflow using a National Council for Prescription Drug Programs or clinical pathway. As a result, pharmacies can expect to see improved operational efficiencies, reduced denials and maximized reimbursements. I’m a strong believer that success is sure to come from making it easy to be a pharmacist providing care and easy to be a patient seeking care at a pharmacy—a goal that we continue to advance at XiFin.

Gleason: The return on investment for pharmacy automation—particularly vial-filling robots—is both immediate and easy to quantify. Because prescription filling is a repetitive, labor-intensive task, each script filled by a ScriptPro robot saves an average of 1.5 to 2.5 minutes. ScriptPro offers a wide selection of robotic models, each with different line-item capacities, allowing us to match the right system to each pharmacy’s unique volume and workflow. Typically, we target automation of about 60% of daily prescription fills. In a pharmacy dispensing 500 prescriptions per day, automating 300 of those can eliminate between 7.5 and 12.5 labor hours daily. These savings in wages are enough to cover the cost of the robot. Beyond the financial return, customers report that ScriptPro’s robots have been game-changers for their technicians. Workloads become more manageable, productivity increases and stress levels drop—leading to higher job satisfaction and reduced turnover. These improvements in workplace culture are just as important as the operational gains, helping pharmacies maintain a stable, productive workforce.

REX Awards 2026: vitamins, minerals and supplements

DSN ’s Retail Excellence Awards recognizes leaders in vitamins, minerals and supplements

By Nora Caley

Consumers are determined to improve their gut health, manage stress and live a healthy life, which is why the vitamins, minerals and supplements business is thriving. As a result, manufacturers are developing products that satisfy a myriad of consumer demands.

Among these demands, according to SPINS, are ingredients for an active lifestyle. Performance nutrition was the top growth category within VMS over the past three years, which is driving sales of protein supplements, creatine gummies and hydration and electrolyte products. It’s not just about lifting weights and running marathons, as shoppers are also seeking healthy aging solutions such as quercetin, multivitamins for consumers using GLP-1 weight loss drugs and products targeting longevity, immunity, mood and more.

Here are the 2026 Retail Excellence Awards for vitamins, minerals and supplements.

Bloom Nutrition Bloom Pop

The wellness essentials brand Bloom Nutrition launched Bloom Pop, a “better-for-you soda” that offers bold, bubbly flavor and gut health benefits, per the brand. Bloom Pop is available in five flavors: Shirley Temple, Classic Orange, Raspberry Lemonade, Strawberry Cream and Watermelon Lime. The soda is formulated with 3 to 4 g of sugar, 20 calories and no artificial ingredients or sweeteners.

Each can delivers the nostalgic taste of soda and is powered by PreticX, a clinically-backed prebiotic, to support gut health in a 1-g dose, the company said. Bloom noted that while many prebiotics require high doses and can lead to bloating or discomfort for some, PreticX works gently and efficiently to nourish the good bacteria in the gut, especially Bifidobacteria, which play a key role in digestion, immunity and metabolism.

GLO Inner Wellness Gut Glo

The female-founded supplement brand GLO Inner Wellness has a mission to help women heal their gut and bloating issues and unlock their healthiest, most confident selves. The Gut Glo supplement is a 4-in-1 doctor-formulated supplement that combines 14 vegan probiotics, 13 vegan digestive enzymes, magnesium and 10 organic herbs into a single capsule.

Inspired by a multi-beneficial approach, Gut Glo daily capsule works to support a healthy gut, while relieving bloating and digestive discomfort, aiding constipation and promoting glowing skin from within.* The Gut Glo supplement is vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO. It is third-party tested and has no fillers or additives. The product is made in the USA in a cGMP certified facility with globally sourced ingredients.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Nature Made Probiotic + Prebiotic Fiber Gummies

The Nature Made Probiotic + Prebiotic Fiber Gummies contain the probiotic Lactospore to support gut health. The supplement works by adding good bacteria to the digestive tract, nourishing good gut bacteria and helping relieve occasional gas, bloating, burping and abdominal discomfort.* The Probiotic + Prebiotic Fiber Gummies are pectin-based, glutenfree and are available in a mixed berry flavor. One serving of two gummies provides 2 billion CFU of Lactospore, a clinically studied probiotic strain (Bacillus coagulans) plus 3 g of Prebiotic Fiber.

The vitamin and supplement broadline brand Nature Made, a brand from Pharmavite, has more than 50 years of expertise in delivering high quality products with ingredients that are backed by science.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

New Chapter Liquid Multivitamin

Vitamin and supplement company New Chapter announced its first-ever Liquid Multivitamin. It is packed with 22 essential vitamins and minerals for comprehensive wellness support,* in an easy-to-consume liquid form. Liquid Multivitamin offers nutrients including fermented B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin K and superfoods to support heart health, bone health, brain health, cellular energy, immune function, hair, skin and nails, and digestion.

New Chapter designed Liquid Multivitamin to meet the needs of the entire family, with one bottle offering age-appropriate doses for adults and children age 2 and up. It comes in two flavors, Orange Mango and Mixed Berry, and is formulated not to taste overly sweet. Liquid Multivitamin is non-GMO, 100% vegan and gluten-free, and is made without potassium sorbate, a chemical preservative.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Plant-Based D3+K2

Fish oil and algae oil brand Nordic Naturals launched Ultimate Omega Plant-Based D3+K2. The vegan-friendly version of the brand’s Ultimate Omega is a plant-based alternative to fish oil, sourced from micro-algae. The supplement provides a daily serving of EPA + DHA that is equivalent to Nordic Naturals’ fish oil for heart and brain support. The product contains 1210 mg omega-3s per serving, 2000 IU vegan vitamin D3 for daily bone and immune support and 90 mcg vitamin K2 (MK-7) to help manage calcium.*

Nordic Naturals touted its portfolio of omega-3s for people and pets, probiotics, vitamins and minerals, formulas for children and teens, plant-based solutions for vegans and vegetarians, gummies and other key nutrients in bioavailable forms to support whole-body health.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Replenza Replenisher + Nutritional Supplements

In November, Replenza Labs announced the launch of its daily physician-formulated nutritional supplement system designed for individuals using GLP-1 medications. The product line, which now has a new look and packaging, consists of Replenza Daily Replenisher and Replenza Daily Supplement.

Replenza Daily Replenisher is a powdered supplement designed to support muscle recovery, digestive health and skin elasticity.* With a blend of amino acids, prebiotics and collagen peptides, the Mixed Berry-flavored powder has 0 g of sugar and is made without GMO ingredients or artificial sweeteners. It is dairy-, lactose-, gluten-, egg- and peanut-free and is manufactured in an FDA-registered facility in the USA. Replenza Daily Supplement contains 22 essential nutrients, including a probiotic and enzyme blend for gut health, BioPerine, an ingredient designed to help maximize nutrient absorption and B-complex vitamins with ashwagandha for cellular energy and stress support.*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

O Positiv URO Vaginal Moisture + Mood

Among the new products from O Positiv Health is URO Vaginal Moisture + Mood. The daily supplement supports vaginal moisture and arousal.* It is designed to help close the orgasm gap and destigmatize female libido and sexual desire. The company said the product is formulated with GABA, KSM-66 ashwagandha, ginkgo biloba and a Passion Positiv Blend. The company said URO Vaginal Moisture + Mood formulation improves blood flow as a mechanism to support arousal. The product supports natural vaginal lubrication, healthy sexual stimulation and overall sexual satisfaction. It is formulated to promote relaxation, support mood and manage cortisol levels, and is hormone-free, developed for daily use across all adult life stages.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Resbiotic resW Perimenopause Postbiotic

The latest product from resbiotic is resW Perimenopause Postbiotic, a formula designed to support women through perimenopause. esW combines botanicals and essential nutrients with a postbiotic formulated to help restore balance and ease the challenges of shifting hormones. Key ingredients include nootropics, black cohosh, chasteberry, magnesium and essential B and D vitamins. The physician-developed microbiome health company said resW takes a gut-first approach to hormonal health. The brand uses heat-treated probiotics—also known as postbiotics—to improve gut function and promote hormonal harmony. By integrating targeted postbiotics and plant-derived adaptogens, resW aims to support stress equilibrium, hot flash relief and sleep comfort.

Tecton Ketones

Ketones, which are substances that fuel the brain and body in the absence of glucose, have been gaining attention among consumers looking for steadier energy, sharper focus and better metabolic support. Courtney Roundy, CEO and co-founder of Tecton Ketones, said the company views ketones as an emerging staple in wellness, and called them “a foundation of everyday wellness much like protein and electrolytes.” Roundy claimed the Tecton Ketones molecule R-3 hydroxybutyrate glycerides is the first bioidentical ketone recognized by the FDA as a New Dietary Ingredient.

Tecton Ketones is designed to provide a clean, efficient fuel source the body can use immediately. The 1.7-oz bottles are available in GLP-1 Activator Piña Colada Delight, Tecton Edge Performance Peach Mango Lift, Tecton Edge Performance Wild Berry Burst and Locked Cognition Orange Pineapple Crush. Its bioidentical ketone technology is designed to support mental clarity, sustained energy and long-term metabolic function.

Relief is just around the corner

In the cough/cold category, online vs. in-store performance depends on urgency level

By Debby Garbato

If you’re sick, you’re sick, and instant relief is a priority. This makes the upper respiratory OTC category particularly important for in-store purchasing. But some instore segments are healthier than others. While cold and flu remedies are popular categories in physical stores, OTC allergy medicines and “maintenance” products are losing ground to online sales.

According to Circana, a Chicago-based research firm, upper respiratory OTC sales in physical channels totaled more than $12.2 billion for the 52 weeks ended Nov. 2, 2025, a 2.5% decline over the previous 52-week period. Allergy products declined the most by -4.1% with $4-plus billion sales, while cough/cold/flu/sinus fell by 2.1% with sales of $7-plus billion. Cough/sore throat drop performance was flat with sales of $1plus billion.

Industry experts estimate that e-commerce represents about 16% ($2 billion) of total U.S. sales in the OTC upper respiratory category. In 2025, it is expected to reach 21%. According to Statista.com, upper respiratory products represent the largest segment of online OTC sales.

Not surprisingly, Amazon is leading the charge. One report

noted a 39% increase in category sales and 32% growth in units on Amazon during the peak 2023-2024 cold/flu season compared to the previous year. Amazon’s Basic Care private label represented an 8% share of the e-commerce giant’s category sales, up 59% over the previous one-year period.

MaryEllen Tefft, VP of sales, FDM, at Boiron, believes consumers’ choice of shopping channel depends on the item. Boiron supplies homeopathic remedies like Oscillococcinum, ColdCalm, ThroatCalm and Chestal Kids Honey.

“Shopping behavior often depends on who the product is for and the type or relief needed,” she said. “Online channels are growing quickly and playing an increasing role for planned replenishment and subscription purchases. But this isn’t always true with cough/cold/flu remedies. Consumers often visit stores when symptoms arise for instant relief rather than waiting for delivery. [In this case] the category continues to anchor in-store traffic because it meets an urgent need.”

Allergy products are a mixed bag, with varying purchasing behavior based on the frequency and severity of symptoms. “We see more of a divide in treatment urgency depending on where consumers fall in the acute to chronic spectrum,” said Elizabeth

Molaei, customer development manager at Kenvue, whose brands include Zyrtec, Rhinocort, Benadryl, Zarbee’s Naturals and Calpol. “Stocking up is more commonplace in allergy, where most are planning purchases and replenishment.”

When it comes to “maintenance” products, Xlear, Inc., does well online with Xlear Nasal Spray, a preventative treatment, said Nathan Jones, CEO/ co-founder. The company said the allnatural, non-addictive product helps the body’s natural cleaning process, washing away bacteria, pollens, dander, mold and other irritants that cause nasal congestion.

“People use it daily,” he added. “It’s a hygiene tool. They use it more prophylactically than they would Afrin. Most viruses enter through the nose. If you block bacteria, you get sick less often.”

Another nasal spray, Xlear 12 Hour, contains the same ingredient as Afrin and is not purchased as frequently online because it is used for relieving cold and allergy symptoms. “It’s used more when you get sick,” added Jones. “If I’m stuffed up, I’ll buy it at the pharmacy or grocery store.”

Quantum Health reports strong online performance with Macula 30+ and Digital Blue, which support eye health. For other products, in-store sales are stronger, as are online orders involving in-store pickup and same day delivery, said Jason Pellegrini, CEO of the natural products company. A top selling item here is LipClear, a cold sore remedy. “When you feel a cold sore coming on, you buy something immediately,” he added. “As online ordering becomes faster, people are ordering more of the acute stuff. But fast delivery isn’t available in all markets.”

READING THE LABEL

In some instances, shoppers choose instore purchasing because reading labels and making comparisons is easier than doing so online. This is particularly important for first-time purchases. Consumers are typically looking for targeted symptoms, side effects, ingredients and drug interactions. The latter two often come into play when the end user is a child, elderly, pregnant or has a chronic illness.

“Consumers want clear information on what symptoms a product relieves, how it should be used and what active ingredients are,” said Tefft. “In-store shopping supports this, giving shoppers the ability to compare labels side by side and feel confident they are selecting the right product.” Boiron, she added, keeps information “clear, concise and symptom-driven.”

Labels should be concise but comprehensive. “Something we hear time and time again from shoppers is the yearning for increased yet still bitesized and easy to understand education to aid purchase decisions,” said Molaei. “That includes clear understanding of which ingredients are appropriate for their symptoms and situation, from how quickly or long lasting it works, etc. down to more granular details, like whether the product is free of specific added ingredients I might want to avoid.”

Jones said in-store shoppers also benefit from the ability to access QR codes to gain additional information, read product studies, etc. “A fair number of customers read published research studies and facts to back up claims,” he added.

Pellegrini noted that some online labels

are AI-generated and are not always accurate. Large retailers, however, carefully screen labels for “accuracy and ethicality.” Pellegrini added, “Online, you’re not always sure what you’re getting. Is someone reselling something that’s four years old?”

ASK THE PHARMACIST

Availability of pharmacists to make OTC recommendations and answer questions about products’ suitability for particular people can be a crucial part of the instore experience. For example, cold and flu products containing decongestants like phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are unsafe for people with diabetes because they can raise blood sugar levels. And some products, like cough syrups, may contain sugar.

“Pharmacists and other health care professionals are essential in the upper respiratory category for guiding product selection, providing education, supporting acute and chronic care and ensuring safe medication use,” said Molaei. “Their expertise is especially valuable in a category marked by complexity, evolving consumer needs and frequent regulatory changes.”

Some people do not want to wait to speak to a busy pharmacist. “This makes shelf education, signage and guidance valuable to the shopper journey,” she added.

Boion actively supports patient/ pharmacist interactions by providing pharmacists with product education and resources. “Pharmacists play a key role in helping consumers choose the right product and use it correctly,” said Tefft. “Personalized support helps build trust and ensures that consumers feel confident about purchases.”

IMPROVING IN-STORE SALES

To boost in-store sales, retailers are paying more attention to how information is presented. The goal is to expedite and simplify the shopping experience.

“Retailers are investing more in symptom-based merchandising,” said Tefft. “Clearer shelf organization, educational signage and seasonal endcaps help consumers find what they need faster.

WHEN THE PRICE IS RIGHT

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of goods in the United States has seen a cumulative price increase of more than 24% since the beginning of 2020. Consequently, many consumers are dining out less and buying cheaper groceries. But how has it affected spending on cough/cold/flu/allergy products? To find out, we asked three experts:

MaryEllen Tefft, VP of sales, FDM, Boiron: “During moments of illness, consumers tend to focus on relief first, then cost. However, given the current economic environment, price awareness is still part of the equation. Many shoppers are more mindful about value, looking for trusted options that deliver results without overextending their budgets.”

Elizabeth Molaei, customer development manager, Kenvue: “It’s not just price, it’s ultimate value. Especially today, most shoppers are budget conscious to a degree. They weigh brand trust, price per ounce, price per dose, number of symptoms supported, claims, etc. to point to total value.”

Jason Pellegrini, CEO, Quantum Health: I don’t think people are super price sensitive. They’re more price conscious. They’re willing to pay for products they trust. They’re more price conscious when experimenting.”

Boiron supports this through in-store materials and displays, grouping products by symptoms. Strategies are especially relevant now as consumers balance convenience, value and confidence in purchasing choices.”

Suppliers also believe retailers should pay more attention to the cold/cough/allergy/flu customer’s total market basket by crossmerchandising and/or cross-promoting complimentary items. The latter could include tissues, soup, Pedialyte, thermometers and other products used by sick people.

“Cough and cold remedies are often purchased alongside tissues, throat lozenges, fever reducers or hydration products,” said Tefft. “Cross merchandising simplifies the shopping experience and helps consumers stock up in one trip. During peak season, displays featuring complimentary products can help drive higher basket sizes while making symptom relief more convenient.”

Pellegrini believes retailers could “do a better job” here during peak cold/flu seasons. He pointed to the suncare category, where sunscreen, aloe, lip balm and related products are prominently featured together every summer. Placing cough/cold/flu/allergy products near the pharmacy is another option, he added. But that space is often used for high theft items.

Looking ahead, the “immediate-need” nature of certain products means they will probably continue to face less online competition than other retail categories. “The cough/cold/ allergy category continues to anchor in-store traffic because it meets an urgent need,” said Tefft. “But in-store education, clear merchandising and guidance from staff remain critical in helping shoppers confidently select the right product and ensure that instore remains the first stop for relief.”

“Cough and cold remedies are often purchased alongside tissues, throat lozenges, fever reducers or hydration products,”

—MaryEllen Tefft, VP of sales, FDM, at Boiron

Join the Path to Purchase Institute

Direct access to brand and retail leaders

Visibility across our trusted B2B media network The

Invitations to member-only roundtables & events

Dan Sabanosh, Director of Shopper Marketing

Exclusive trend reports & shopper research

Calling Cards

Pharmacies could take steps to boost engagement among core consumers and under-represented shoppers in the greeting card aisle

By Kathie Canning

Consumers have long relied on greeting cards to toast birthdays, celebrate holidays and commemorate numerous other noteworthy occasions. And despite the rise in digital communications over the past few decades, nine out of 10 households still purchase greeting cards, said Steven Gimbelman, CEO of Designer Greetings, a family-owned greeting card company.

Gender, Age Matter

Women over the age of 40 continue to be the core customers shopping the greeting card aisle, said Kat Krassner, senior editor for the humor-focused card company NobleWorks Inc. Wombi Rose, CEO of the pop-up card company Lovepop, agreed, adding that adults even older—55 and up and primarily female—are the “most consistent and valuable shoppers” in the category. That’s because they have the “most time, perspective and emotional energy” to remain connected to those who matter the most to them.

“Cards that pop up, light up or create a tactile ‘wow’ moment drive engagement and highervalue perception.”

— Wombi Rose, CEO, Lovepop

Gimbelman pointed out that women are inclined to view greeting cards as a “meaningful way to communicate and celebrate relationships.” In contrast, men tend to regard greeting cards as “optional or secondary to the gift itself.” They also are inclined to “shop more purposefully” and devote less time to browsing the card aisle.

KEEP AN EYE ON TRENDS

Like many other product categories, the greeting card segment is ever-evolving to reflect the wants and needs of consumers.

“Today’s consumers are more mindful of what they buy, choosing products that reflect their values,” said Steven Gimbelman, CEO of Designer Greetings.

“That sense of responsibility aligns perfectly with the emotional intent behind sending a card—it’s an act of caring, both for people and the planet.”

His company, therefore, is seeing increasing appreciation for hand-crafted and artist-driven card styles, as well as unique, personal cards that serve as both messages and keepsakes.

“At Designer Greetings, we’re embracing these shifts by investing in diverse design, supporting creative collaborations and expanding our portfolio through lines like Great Arrow Graphics, which celebrates handcrafted artistry,” Gimbelman shared.

According to Wombi Rose, CEO of Lovepop, there are other trends to watch:

• Sensory and Experiential Giving, where cards featuring sound, light or motion elements provide emotional impact via a full sensory experience.

• Humor Connects, where shoppers are able “to balance sentiment with levity to make meaningful connections fun.”

• Pack Purchasing and Preparedness, where convenience-minded shoppers who want easy ways to be prepared for upcoming occasions are purchasing multi-packs of cards.

The greeting card aisle is facing more than a gender challenge, however. Younger consumers also tend to purchase fewer cards (although millennials represent the largest card-buying group by spending, Gimbelman noted).

In fact, Gen Z consumers are most under-represented overall among greeting card buyers, Rose explained.

“They’re digitally native and socially expressive, so the challenge isn’t interest in connection; it’s relevance,” he said.

Engage Them

To spur sales among under-purchasing consumers, drug stores could work with greeting card companies to boost engagement. Younger consumers, for example, want cards that “express individuality” instead of being predictable, Rose explained. Cards emphasizing design, authenticity and personalization are a draw.

He also recommends highlighting sensory or premium elements to capture the attention of under-purchasing consumers.

“Cards that pop up, light up or create a tactile ‘wow’ moment drive engagement and higher-value perception,” Rose maintained. “QR codes, creator-lead content or packaging that encourages posting or keeping the card can extend the moment of connection,” he added.

Rose also suggested retailers re-curate the greeting card aisle as a “discovery zone.” They could consider themed bundles or small curated displays to add intentionality and inspiration to the shopping experience.

Court Core Consumers

To grow the category, retailers also will want to take steps to keep core greeting card consumers engaged.

Because women often pick out multiple greeting cards during a visit—for different occasions or to keep on hand—”organized, refreshed and easy-to-browse displays” are critical to maintaining engagement, Gimbelman stressed. And end-

caps related to “everyday moments” such as birthdays, encouragement and thankyous could spur impulse purchases and improve shopper engagement.

“Our dedicated merchandisers and service teams work together with retailers to optimize inventory, refresh displays and fill gaps quickly, keeping every pocket stocked and sales flowing,” he added.

To reach core consumers over the age of 40, retailers also could conduct targeted ad campaigns and fun promotions via Facebook and Instagram, Krassner noted. And coupons for a free or discounted card could drive sales, too.

Retailers also could engage older consumers via “refreshing seasonal storytelling and themes” and “premium, keepsake-quality” card designs, Rose pointed out.

Millennials appreciate inclusivity, authenticity and modern design, so card lines that boast handmade details, artist collaborations and/or premium touches count here, Gimbelman said.

And regardless of the consumer’s age or gender, the message inside the card matters.

“No matter how beautiful or funny a card is, if the inside sentiment doesn’t convey what the sender wants to say to the recipient, the customer won’t purchase that card,” Krassner stressed.

Five Crucial 2026 Retail Trends

Retailers will have big opportunities to advance their most important goals

By David Orgel

Welcome to 2026. Drug store and grocery retailers will have major opportunities to make progress on strategies in areas such as artificial intelligence, pricing, pharmacy and loyalty.

Some emerging retail trends, especially in technology, will become mainstream. Other trends will represent unique, strategic opportunities.

Here are five key trends to watch:

1. Price/value messaging will be 24/7

After a holiday in which price and savings took center stage in retail messaging, from Walgreens to Target, companies will need to figure out how to incorporate this in an ongoing way. Price and value strategies will be crucial because approaching year-end Consumer Confidence remained weak and many shoppers were pulling back on discretionary spending and focusing more on price-value optimization, according to the 2026 Food and Beverage retail sector outlook published in early December by Circana, a Chicago-based market research firm.

2. AI will drive customer and employee engagement

AI is quickly moving from promise to reality at retail. It is supporting shopper journeys in ways that guarantee it will become more ubiquitous this year and beyond. Walmart introduced new AI-powered tools for holiday 2025 geared to helping customers find deals, locate products and shop efficiently in-store and online. Kroger, meanwhile, enhanced its Instacart relationship by making available to customers Instacart’s AI assistant called Cart Assistant, for those shopping on the Kroger iOS mobile app.

3. Loyalty rewards to push envelope Retailers are ratcheting up strategies to reward their most loyal shoppers, by offering exclusive opportunities and launching contests, for example. Albertsons recently became the first major grocer to offer Uber One perks to free and paid loyalty members through extended free trials. Aldi, meanwhile, unveiled a contest to celebrate its most loyal fans by asking for feedback on why they should be considered a “Super Fan?” An exclusive group of 25 winners are offered a year’s worth of free groceries, an invitation to a members-only event and Aldi merch. As shoppers feel more love from retailers, they will likely want more TLC in 2026.

4. Pharmacy embracing the long view Pharmacies are taking proactive approaches to bolster their futures by enhancing relevancy to customers and society. CVS Health has been conducting extensive research on how to advance community pharmacy. The retailer released 2025 Rx Report: Community Pharmacy Reimagined, which explores how community pharmacies are adapting to meet needs amid a changing landscape. In another example, Walgreens has conducted what it calls the longest

David Orgel is an awardwinning business journalist, industry expert and speaker. He is currently the principal of David Orgel Consulting.

commitment to clinical research for a U.S. retail pharmacy, citing three years of leading a community-based research effort to improve patient access.

5. Store development to pursue unique approaches

In some years store development trends have been relatively uniform across retail. That has been anything but the case lately. Retailers are taking highly individual approaches, a dynamic likely to continue. Last year Target opened the latest of its larger-format units, a nearly 150,000-square-foot location in South Riding, Va. Contrast that with a recent strategy from Whole Foods Market, which has been opening locations of its smaller-format store concept, called Whole Foods Market Daily Shop, with footprints of only a few thousand square feet each.

Why are these trends important? In my annual outlook piece a year ago, I mentioned it’s easy for retailers to get so involved in day-to-day activities that they miss key changes in the most important business developments. That point is truer than ever. We can all benefit by staying focused on how these and other key trends unfold.

isn’t new to The Compliance Team.

We’re the only CMS-approved, DMEPOS accreditor with annual, onsite survey experience.  In fact, we specifically designed and implemented an annual, CMS-approved DMEPOS Accreditation Program that for over 14 years helped providers stay compliant.

Experience matters. Our team has the knowledge

TCT’s annual DMEPOS Accreditation Program includes:

• Easy-to-understand, CMS-approved standards.

• Simplified accreditation process.

• In-house support team experienced in annual DMEPOS accreditation. Annual accreditation

and experience to support our current and transitioning providers with a CMS-approved, annual DMEPOS Accreditation Program.

Let’s get started! Find out more about our annual accreditation program and be confident you’re CMS compliant. Contact us at 215.654.9110 or team@thecomplianceteam.org.

A trusted leader in DMEPOS accreditation for over 30 years!