Dive Brief:
- Albertsons has waived prescription fees for mail order, same-day and next-day delivery through May 1, according to a company press release. The company will reevaluate delivery pricing after this time.
- The measure is intended to make sure patients have convenient access to their medications during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially as some customers may not want to go into store pharmacies.
- Albertsons said patients should consult their local pharmacy for pricing on one- or two-hour rush deliveries, which will continue to have fees.
Dive Insight:
Cutting delivery costs could help boost Albertsons’ pharmacy business during a time when grocery stores are front-and-center in people’s lives. Shoppers who are buying groceries online from an Albertsons banner may find it convenient to use the company’s pharmacies as well, especially with free delivery.
In a previous announcement, Albertsons’ vice president of pharmacy, Mark Panzer, noted prescription delivery can help eliminate barriers to medication adherence. The sentiment rings true now more than ever as people seek to stay healthy and avoid complications from COVID-19.
H-E-B was among the first retailers to announce free prescription delivery as coronavirus swept the nation. The Texas grocer announced more than a week ago that customers could call the pharmacy to request a prescription delivery, which would be delivered in four hours or less.
CVS has also waived fees through May 1 for one- and two-day prescription delivery amid the coronavirus outbreak, and Walgreens has enacted a similar measure. Walmart hasn’t slashed its delivery fees, but always offers free standard shipping on prescriptions.
In addition to cutting prescription fees, Albertsons has pledged $3 million to help feed families who need it during the pandemic. The grocer designated shopping hours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for seniors and other at-risk groups, and has adjusted operating hours to make sure they have time to clean and restock shelves. Albertsons also added contactless delivery for employees ferrying groceries to customers' homes.
