CVS Now Has an APP to Unlock Locked Shelves?

CVS Health introduces a groundbreaking app feature allowing customers to unlock anti-theft shelves in select New York City stores, revolutionizing the shopping experience.

At a Glance

  • CVS launches self-unlocking anti-theft shelf feature in app for select NYC stores
  • New feature aims to reduce customer wait times and improve shopping experience
  • Pilot program active in three NYC locations with plans for expansion
  • App requires login, store Wi-Fi connection, and Bluetooth for functionality
  • Additional app features include prescription management and appointment scheduling

CVS Introduces Innovative Anti-Theft Solution

In a move to enhance customer experience and tackle the inconvenience of locked cabinets, CVS Health has unveiled a new feature in its app that allows customers to unlock anti-theft shelves themselves. The innovative solution is currently being piloted in three New York City CVS locations, with plans for further expansion.

The introduction of this feature comes as a response to customer frustrations with locked cabinets, which have become increasingly common in retail stores to combat theft. CVS’s Chief Digital, Information, and Technology Officer, Tilak Mandadi, acknowledged the issue, stating, “People really, really dislike locked cabinets.”

How the New Feature Works

To utilize the self-unlocking feature, customers must be logged into the CVS Health app, connected to the store’s Wi-Fi, and have Bluetooth enabled on their devices. This combination of requirements ensures security. The feature aims to significantly reduce wait times for customers who previously had to seek employee assistance to access secured items.

“As a company, we are super focused on improving the health care experience,” Tilak Mandadi said.

The pilot program’s success in New York City has prompted CVS to consider expanding the feature to 10 to 15 more stores, including 10 on the West Coast. This expansion demonstrates CVS’s commitment to addressing customer needs and leveraging technology to improve the retail experience across different regions.

A Multifaceted App for Healthcare and Retail

The self-unlocking feature is just one aspect of CVS’s comprehensive app redesign. Mandadi revealed, “Our working title was ‘the super app’,” highlighting the company’s ambition to create a versatile tool for customers. The revamped CVS Health app offers a range of services beyond the anti-theft solution, including prescription management, appointment scheduling, and access to benefit information.

Additional features in the app showcase CVS’s commitment to holistic health care. Users can benefit from an AI-powered search function, access educational health articles, and even engage in meditation exercises.