Because of the amount of people self-isolating, but still needing medical essentials with the COVID-19 pandemic, Walgreens has now expanded the offerings of its Drive-Thru pick-up. This will occur at over 7300 of the company’s pharmacy drive-thrus nationwide. This allows customers to still get the products they need from the retailer while also helping to promote social distancing.
“We are working around the clock to support our customers and patients, who are relying on us more now than ever before,” said Lisa Badgley, senior vice president of pharmacy and retail operations at Walgreens in a Walgreens press release. “We’re continuing to quickly introduce new and different ways to meet customers’ needs for greater convenience during the COVID-19 pandemic, while also promoting social distancing as one of the most important preventive measures we can take. We also ask that customers be patient as we work to provide this new and expanded service, as there may be wait times given current demand.”
There are more than 60 products made available to purchase at the drive-thru, such as cleaning supplies and sanitizers, over the counter products for cough/cold, medical supplies, first aid as well as other items. These items were chosen to help support the needs of the consumer and their community. Consumers may also confirm the availability of the product they are looking for at the drive-thru window.
Also, Walgreens pharmacy technicians are prepared to provide customers their items on the spot if there are no lines at the drive-thru. If there is a line, customers may be asked to drive around and will be given a wait time to come back and pick up their items.
Alongside this drive-thru change, Walgreens has also started setting aside a specific time period for senior citizens to be able to come to the store and pick up their items. This period, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., is an hour prior to when the store opens to the public. This period is also open to caregivers and immediate family of senior citizens.
According to the Walgreens website, the retailer is offering their “senior day discount all day on Tuesdays during this time. Customers age 55 and older will receive 30 percent off regularly priced Walgreens brands and 20 percent off regularly priced national brands. Restrictions may apply. Current quantity limits on certain high demand products will be required.”
The store has also started tackling the challenge of social distancing by having “Social Distancing Line,” that begin 6 feet away from all checkout counters. These lines are marked with tape where customers must stand until a Walgreens employee tells the customer to step to the counter. As is the pharmacy waiting area where chairs have been separated to make sure people are apart far enough to keep everyone safe.