INDUSTRY NEWS
CVS Health Appoints New Executive
Kroger’s Boost Membership Launches Nationally Kroger is expanding its loyalty program by rolling out Boost by Kroger nationally. The annual membership provides shoppers with unlimited free grocery delivery on orders more than $35, as well as fuel discounts of up to $1 per gallon and additional savings on its Our Brand products. “As customers continue to evolve how they shop and eat, this expansion of our loyalty program offers more personalized value in groceries and fuel, alongside easier access to convenient shopping solutions, such as delivery,” said Yael Cosset, senior vice president and chief information officer at Kroger. “We are committed to consistently delivering a best-in-class seamless experience with zero compromise — the fresh and quality products our customers want, how they want it and when they want it. We recognize this is especially important as our customers are facing an inflationary environment and rising fuel prices.” Currently, Boost expands on savings available to customers through the retailer’s free loyalty program in two annual membership levels — $59 or $99 — that offer free next-day delivery or free delivery in as little as two hours respectively, the company said. In addition, Boost members are eligible for two times fuel points for every dollar spent and savings on Our Brands products that include Murray’s Cheese, Vitacost, HomeChef, Simple Truth and Private Selection. “Boost contributes to our rapidly expanding seamless ecosystem, bringing value and convenience to many more families across America as we roll out new delivery fulfillment centers,” said Bill Bennett, Kroger vice president and head of e-commerce. “Through Boost, Kroger is uniquely positioned to be Fresh for Everyone, making grocery delivery accessible to more customers through the industry’s most affordable grocery delivery membership program. Combine this with our industryleading fuel points program, we are confident we have built a differentiated membership program that our customers will love.” During the last several months, Kroger piloted Boost in four divisions, which resulted in a growing number of new members and an increase in delivery sales compared to its non-Boost divisions, the retailer said.
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CVS Health has welcomed a new executive leader. Tilak Mandadi has joined the company as executive vice president and chief data, digital and Tilak Mandadi technology officer, a newly created position, effective July 25. Mandadi will be responsible for the company’s data, digital and technology strategy while overseeing growth and innovation through digital-led, consumerfocused experiences and services. “Technology is a catalyst for valuecreation and growth at CVS Health,” said president and CEO Karen Lynch. “It is crucial that we continue to enhance customer engagement and experiences, and we’re confident Tilak will drive these efforts as we prioritize serving consumers wherever and whenever they need health care.” Mandadi joins CVS Health from MGM Resorts International, where he served as chief strategy, innovation and technology officer. Prior to that, he served in senior digital strategy roles at Disney Parks, Experiences and Products and American Express. “CVS Health serves more than 44 million unique digital customers and is increasingly integrating digital solutions into the consumer healthcare experience,” Mandadi said. “I look forward to helping make health care more seamless, convenient and personalized, and driving business agility and growth through technology, data, digital and experiential innovations.” Mandadi will become a member of the company’s executive leadership team and will report directly to Lynch. He has a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Oregon.
August 2022 DRUGSTORENEWS.COM
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7/28/22 3:02 PM
