Rite Aid Unveils Next Generation of Wellness Store

CAMP HILL, Pa. -- Rite Aid has opened the doors on the next generation of its wellness store format. The new store in Lemoyne, Pa., underwent a major renovation and officially opened earlier this month.

"We know our customers' health and wellness needs are always changing," said Ken Martindale, Rite Aid's chief operating officer. "As such, it's important that we change with them and are able to evolve and innovate across all areas of our operations. Here in Lemoyne, we've taken our successful wellness store format to the next level, which we think will help us continue to be the pharmacy of choice when it comes to health and wellness information, products, and services."

Rite Aid launched the wellness store format in 2011 and has continuously modified and enhanced the design. Rite Aid intends to incorporate elements of this wellness store design in upcoming store remodel and relocation projects. The company has approximately 570 wellness stores to date and expects to have a total of nearly 800 wellness stores by the end of its fiscal year in February 2013.

The newly remodeled store features changes inside and out. The exterior of the store features wood grain paneling. The features of the store, such as the 24-hour pharmacy, drive-thru services and GNC department, are listed right on the front wood paneling so customers know at first glance exactly what's inside, according to Rite Aid.

The inside of the store has also undergone a major transformation and features a new look, with a softer, more inviting layout making it easy for customers to find what they are looking for, complete with contemporary, new décor and signage including:

• Ceiling rings that clearly designate each section of the store such as beauty, food, home care and seasonal.
• Lighting fixtures and brand headers across the beauty department.
• A relaxing, warm color palette with soothing wood tones and softer lighting.

Also, the pharmacy department now features a look that embodies Rite Aid's dedication to wellness. In addition to a wooden path leading directly to it, the department has been cleared of all merchandise to create a more open and welcoming environment. Located nearby is the GNC department and a newly designed smoking cessation department, both important health areas where Rite Aid pharmacists provide counsel to customers, according to the company.

Other new features in the store include a vision center, a diabetic diagnostic center, a men's grooming area, a nail bar, hair care aisle, and a grab-and-go-cooler.

The Lemoyne wellness store also offers features from original Rite Aid wellness store format including Wellness Ambassadors, and expanded clinical pharmacy services with pharmacists specially trained in diabetes care, immunizations and medication therapy management. A consultation room is also available for customers to speak privately with their Rite Aid pharmacist about their medication regimens or receive an immunization.