CVS, the nation’s number-two drugstore chain, says it will stop selling cigarettes and all tobacco products at its more than 7,600 retail stories by October.
It’s a landmark decision that would make CVS the first national pharmacy company to end tobacco sales.
It’s part of a strategic move by CVS to reposition itself as not just a drugstore, but also a health care provider.
CVS expects to lose about $2 billion in annual sales, but the company says they can make up that loss with a stronger focus on health and wellness products and services.
Shannon Hughes, the Florida Department of Health’s Tobacco Free Florida bureau chief, and Michael Munz, partner and executive vice president at the Dalton Agency, a Jacksonville public relations and marketing firm, joined Melissa Ross to discuss the announcement.
You can follow Melissa Ross on Twitter @MelissainJax.
