Read The Article Below And Write A 250-Word Peer Response

Read The Article Below And Write A 250 Word Peer Response To The Artic

Read The Article Below And Write A 250 Word Peer Response To The Artic

The provided article discusses Walgreens' strategic evolution over recent years, emphasizing a shift from store expansion to enhancing customer experience and employee engagement amidst competitive pressures. Initially, Walgreens aggressively pursued growth, exemplified by surpassing their "seven by 10" store goal, opening a new store every 17 hours at their peak (Wagner & Orvis, 2013). However, the focus has since pivoted to better customer service, remodeling stores, introducing in-store amenities like restaurants and salons, and refining employee motivation strategies. This strategic shift aims to build stronger customer relationships rather than merely increasing store count. The article highlights challenges such as the loss of customers following the breakdown in negotiations with Express Scripts, which underscores the importance of maintaining reliable partnerships in healthcare services. Additionally, Walgreens’ restructuring of employee health benefits—offering affordable insurance options through the marketplace—reflects their effort to adapt to rising healthcare costs while supporting their workforce (Martin & Weaver, 2013). However, the question remains whether these strategies will ensure Walgreens’ competitiveness against rivals like CVS. Given the rising healthcare costs and the need for continuous innovation, Walgreens must explore further avenues, such as integrating digital health solutions or personalized pharmacy services, to stay relevant (Kumar & Reinartz, 2016). Overall, Walgreens’ strategic adaptations demonstrate resilience and a proactive approach to evolving market conditions, yet ongoing innovation will be crucial for their future success.

Paper For Above instruction

Walgreens’ strategic shift from expansion to customer-centric service reflects a broader trend among retail pharmacy chains striving to stay competitive in a rapidly changing healthcare and retail environment. Initially, Walgreens’ aggressive expansion exemplifies a growth-oriented approach, with the goal of increasing market presence. However, as the retail landscape matured, particularly with the rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer health services, merely increasing the number of stores became less effective. The company's current focus on enhancing customer experience—such as remodeling stores and incorporating amenities like restaurants and salons—aligns with modern retail strategies that prioritize customer loyalty and engagement (Hassan & Shiu, 2019). This shift is supported by the understanding that personalized, convenient, and engaging shopping environments can significantly influence consumer satisfaction and loyalty (Kumar & Reinartz, 2016).

Nevertheless, Walgreens faces significant challenges, including the disruption caused by conflicts like the breakdown with Express Scripts, which led to loss of customers and revenue. Such incidents highlight the importance of strategic partnerships in healthcare, an area critical to Walgreens' future growth. Their decision to revise employee health benefits by offering more affordable insurance options addresses rising healthcare costs and reflects strategic efforts to attract and retain talent (Martin & Weaver, 2013).

To remain competitive against CVS and other entrants, Walgreens should consider expanding digital health initiatives, such as telehealth services and personalized health management solutions, which are increasingly expected by consumers (Kumar & Reinartz, 2016). By leveraging technology and enhancing service delivery, Walgreens can reinforce its market position, build stronger customer relationships, and foster long-term growth.

References

  • Hassan, S., & Shiu, E. (2019). Customer Experience Management in Retail: Strategies and Practices. Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, 48, 174-182.
  • Kumar, V., & Reinartz, W. (2016). Creating Enduring Customer Value. Journal of Marketing, 80(6), 36–68.
  • Martin, T., & Weaver, C. (2013). Walgreen to Shift Health Plan for 160,000 Workers. Wall Street Journal. Retrieved from https://www.wsj.com
  • Wagner, M., & Orvis, W. (2013, August). Changing Structures and Behaviors at Walgreens. Strategy+Business, 73, 1-10.