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Halt, Release, Unlock
If you’ve ever frequented pharmacies, you’ve likely encountered shelves that resemble safes more than displays. These locking systems are put in place by stores to deter theft of expensive items such as razors and baby formula. While the intention behind this is understandable, it can be frustrating for shoppers as it significantly prolongs the process of obtaining the desired product.
CVS has recently unveiled a new feature that allows customers to independently unlock the items they wish to purchase, eliminating the need to wait for an employee’s assistance. While this may seem like a convenient solution, its complex and intrusive nature may deter many from utilizing it.
Here’s a breakdown of how this innovation operates.
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1. Why Is CVS Allowing Customers to Unlock Merchandise?
CVS employs security measures, including locking up products, to combat “shrink,” a term in the industry referring to unsellable merchandise, including stolen items. However, customers often express frustration at having to wait for an employee to unlock products, resulting in decreased sales of these locked items. While CVS emphasizes customer convenience, the primary objective is to potentially boost sales by enabling customers to unlock items themselves. Industry experts also speculate that this move aims to increase app downloads and foster greater shopper loyalty.
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2. How Does It Work?
In the words of a famous slogan, “there’s an app for that.” CVS has introduced a new version of its mobile app, which includes the functionality to open specific locked cabinets in stores. This means that customers no longer need to press the nearby button and wait for an employee to unlock the items for them.
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3. What’s the Catch?
To utilize this feature, you must have a smartphone to access the mobile app. Additionally, several other prerequisites must be met:
– Membership in CVS’s loyalty program, ExtraCare
– The latest version of the mobile app, with an active member account
– Connection to the store’s Wi-Fi network
– Bluetooth enabled on your phone
These requirements may pose challenges for individuals who are not tech-savvy or have concerns about privacy related to technology.
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4. Can I Use It at My CVS?
Even if you meet all the aforementioned criteria, the likelihood is that these “smart locks” are not yet available in your vicinity. Currently, they are being trialed at three CVS locations in New York City as part of a pilot program. According to the New York Times, the company intends to expand this service to ten West Coast locations early this year. However, even if the rollout progresses smoothly, it may take some time before it is implemented nationwide.
Would you be inclined to try out the new CVS smart locks?
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