Bartell to open store No. 52

Drug Store News, April 28, 2003

SEATTLE -- Bartell Drugs will open a new store this May in Snohomish County, bringing its store count to 52. Bartell currently has eight stores in operation there.

The 15,000-square-foot store will be the second in the chain to feature a one-hour digital photo lab.

George Bartell, president and chief executive officer of Bartell Drugs, said that nine stores will be remodeled this year.

In addition, the chain is putting 10 doors of coolers and refrigerators into all new stores in order to enhance the chain s convenience food offerings.

To further enhance customer service, Bartell Drugs will add a debit functionality to its cash registers this year. "Customers want that," said Bartell. "They like it, and when we get it in, it will open up the possibility for us to sell electronic gift cards."