By Julia Marchionda

Toronto-based Shoppers Drug Mart continues to expand its offerings in an attempt to gain consumer loyalty and as a result, market share. The retailer’s latest announcement has it launching an online nutrition service in Ontario, further solidifying the retailer’s offerings to consumers in the face of increasing competition.

According to Shoppers Drug Mart, nearly forty per cent of Canadians have difficulty determining unhealthy food versus healthy food. The online service will provide access to registered dieticians through telephone or video. During a 60-minute, one-on-one counselling session, the customer will discuss their health and nutrition goals with a Shoppers Drug Mart registered dietician and receive a personalized nutrition plan.

Theresa Firestone, Senior Vice President, Health and Wellness said, “Our goal is to make personalized nutrition counselling convenient for residents of Ontario.” The addition of this service to the Shoppers Drug Mart portfolio will help the company further corner the market on Canadian health and wellness, and pharmaceutical retail markets to name a few.

This announcement is in keeping with the current trend of retailers adding unique services and partnerships to their retail operations. To expand their foothold in the beauty industry, Shoppers Drug Mart launched its ‘Beauty Clinic by Shoppers Drug Mart’ concept where the retailer provides non-surgical cosmetic services and treatments. A standalone beautyBOUTIQUE by Shoppers Drug Mart recently opened in Calgary’s The CORE shopping centre, with more expected to follow. These developments come amid reports that Shoppers Drug Mart has reduced hours of its 24-hour locations in Alberta and Manitoba, as the retailer builds on efficiencies in order to gain cost savings.

Competitors are also innovating with unique partnerships. Retail Insider recently reported on Rexall’s partnership with M&M Food Market, that will bring a new and improved frozen food experience to the pharmacy retailer. Rexall has also introduced services to their mix including flu shots and health awareness clinics.

Following Loblaws’ acquisition of the Canadian pharmacy, Shoppers Drug Mart has expanded into new avenues such as opening “Fresh Food Store” concepts in British Columbia, Ontario, Québec, and Saskatchewan in hopes of becoming a one-stop shopping destination. We will continue to report on new strategies being employed by major retailers during this time of change.

A graduate from both the University of Toronto and Humber College, Julia spent most of her educational career honing her skills in critical thinking, marketing communications, and finding her unique voice in her writing.

With tenures in several areas of retail under her belt, Julia has lead teams in achieving sales goals and allowed herself to become consumed in understanding retail business.

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