CVS makes most of holiday season

Chain Drug Review, Jan 5, 2009

WOONSOCKET, R.I. -- CVS Caremark Corp. drove holiday sales last month by offering last-minute gifts and essentials like wrapping paper and holiday decorations. From electronics and popular toys to beauty and fragrance gifts, the chain provided a wide selection of gift options, home decor staples and holiday specialty items.

According to a survey conducted by BIGResearch on behalf of the National Retail Federation only a very small share (8%) of consumers had completed their holiday shopping in mid-December. What's more, one out of five people hadn't even started.

Shoppers could choose from a variety of bath and beauty products at CVS. They could select from a variety of styles and colors when choosing a new Essence of Beauty Tote Bag, complete with body lotions and gels, valued at over $80, for only $14.99. For an at-home spa experience, the Essence of Beauty Hydro-Foot Spa came complete with foot file, emery board and toenail clippers, a $100 value for $19.99. The Sarah Peyton Wellness Hot/Cold Spa Set with a therapeutic neck wrap, eye mask, body bag and rest pillow meanwhile was priced at $14.99. Products from the new Vickery & Clarke all natural apothecary line made for a distinctive choice.

Customers might have been surprised to find the diversity of gadgets and gizmos at CVS. The GPS Navigation System for Dummies, Coby and TDE digital photo frames, Kodak EasyShare cameras and iCraig MP3 players all were available. Shoppers could also pick up digital recording photo frames for as little as $6.99, or digital photo ornaments for $19.99.