At Apothecary Products, our retail partnerships are at the heart of everything we do. By working closely together, we provide our consumers and the pharmacists that serve them with innovative tools that support informed, personalized care. These collaborations are built on trust and a shared commitment to improving lives through high-quality, accessible self-care products.
GLP-1 Nutritional Needs
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How cost, outcomes and access combine to shape health value across the United States
54 INSIDE BEAUTY: TRENDS
Beauty enthusiasts are on the hunt for products that serve more than one purpose and help channel viral social media trends
58 INSIDE BEAUTY: MEN’S GROOMING
Male customers are driving muchneeded incremental sales in the beauty business
INSIDE BEAUTY: Q&A
Neutrogena and Aveeno are merging clinical credibility, consumer trust and cultural relevance to redefine mass beauty innovation
HEALTH: WOMEN’S HEALTH REPORT
Meet menopausal women with more products and more conversation
76 PRODUCT SHOWCASE
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with Trividia Health’s Jason Lewis
WORD by Digital Wave Technology’s Lori Schafer
Here are some of the products that attendees will see at this year’s TSE
LAB-TESTED ON HUMAN ear wax
SAY TO BUBBLING PEROXIDE DROPS buh-bye
• Over 25× more effective than leading OTC products with carbamide peroxide†
• Breaks down wax fast — starts in 5 minutes†
• 3.24× wax disintegration score vs. 0.12†
• 81% effectiveness vs. 3%†
• Lab-tested. Clinically validated. ‡
†Based on in vitro testing. Source: Knebl J, Harty B, Anderson CE et al. In vitro comparison of three earwax removal formulations for the disintegration of earwax [version 2; peer review: 2 approved with reservations, 1 not approved]. F1000Research 2025, 5:2784 ( https://doi. org/10.12688/f1000research.10279.2)
‡As shown in a clinical study. Source: Fullington D, Song J, Gilles A, Guo X, Hua W, Anderson CE, Griffin J. Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of a novel product for the removal of impacted human cerumen in real-world settings. BMC Ear Nose Throat Disord. 2017 Jun 2;17:5. doi: 10.1186/ s12901-017-0038-8. PMID: 28588421; PMCID: PMC5455110.( https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ articles/PMC5455110/)
5 Hard Pieces
There are more issues facing community pharmacies than PBM reform.
“INTEREST RATES, INFLATION, TARIFFS ON IMPORTED GOODS AND CONSUMER CONFIDENCE ARE AMONG THE BROAD ECONOMIC ISSUES THAT COULD SUDDENLY PRESENT NEW CHALLENGES AT ANY TIME.”
PBM reform is, perhaps, the single biggest issue facing community pharmacies–an existential threat, as one pharmacy executive once told my colleague and me at the Annual Meeting in Palm Beach, Fla. And everyone in the industry knows why.
Originally created to simplify pharmacy transactions, drive cost savings and encourage generic use, PBMs have evolved into powerful middlemen, manipulating drug prices and networks and profiting massively, NACDS has said.
That evolution, NACDS believes, has hastened more pharmacy closures; low, delayed or unpredictable reimbursements; excessive fees and spread pricing; tiered/differential reimbursement favoring PBM-owned pharmacies; patient steering to PBM-owned or mailorder pharmacies and restricted pharmacy networks.
Unfortunately, PBM reform is not the only issue facing pharmacies. Our cover story this month (page 34) examines the five that, we are told, are the most significant ones that need addressing. Among the most pressing issues is how the Medicare price negotiations that were included in the Inflation Reduction Act will play out at the retail level. Many retailers are concerned that reimbursement mechanisms might not be adequate to support their cash flow needs. In addition, the reimbursement models that evolve for GLP-1 drugs and other high-cost medications could also pose challenges for retailers.
Many of the challenges that retailers are seeking to resolve are more operational in nature, however, including rethinking the store business model, attracting qualified labor and implementing technology systems that increase efficiency and protect against the theft of customer data.
“Overall, the air of uncertainty that has been impacting businesses across industries this year only compounds the problems that drugstore retailers face,” our reporter writes. “Interest rates, inflation, tariffs on imported goods and consumer confidence are among the broad economic issues that could suddenly present new challenges at any time.”
Give the story a read, and let us know what you think are the biggest threats facing community pharmacy.
EDITORIAL
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Our collaboration is adding to our foundation of ensuring patients have the medications and services they need when they need them, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.”
— Amber Kayse, vice president, health and wellness payor contracting and strategy, Kroger Health
KROGER HEALTH EXTENDS RELATIONSHIP WITH CENTENE’S MEDICARE PHARMACY NETWORK
Kroger Health, the healthcare division of Kroger, and its Family of Pharmacies, announced its continued participation in Centene’s Medicare pharmacy network, which will provide ongoing access for Centene’s Medicare Advantage and standalone Prescription Drug Plan members to Kroger Family of Pharmacies.
The agreement will include pharmacist-led initiatives such as medication optimization.
“We are excited about continuing our relationship with Centene, which assists us with fulfilling our commitment to providing high-quality care to our patients,” said Amber Kayse, vice president, health and wellness payor contracting and strategy, Kroger Health. “Our collaboration is adding
to our foundation of ensuring patients have the medications and services they need when they need them, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.”
Kroger will remain in the pharmacy network for all Centene lines of business, including Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and the health insurance marketplace, allowing members of Centene’s health plans and products to continue to have access to the Kroger Family of Pharmacies as an in-network pharmacy provider.
In addition, individuals may continue to fill prescriptions at Kroger Family of Pharmacies, including using a third-party discount card or manufacturer coupon when eligible to purchase a drug or paying the retail cash price.
Jessica was researching accreditation organizations with a Pharmacy program to help standardize processes and procedures and improve quality across Lewis Drug’s 60 locations. “We want to find ways to streamline some of the overwhelming day-to-day details of operating a pharmacy so our pharmacists can focus more on their patients.”
“ Pharmacy Accreditation by The Compliance Team helped us standardize processes, bring consistency across our 60 locations, and put a spotlight on quality improvement. Having a partner like TCT is invaluable.”
— Jessica Strobl, PharmD VP Professional Services Lewis Drug 60 locations
CONSUMERS REMAIN PRICE-SENSITIVE IN THE MIDST OF TARIFF WORRIES
While economic fundamentals appear solid at the halfway point of the year, uncertainty is pervasive, said Jack Kleinhenz, chief economist at National Retail Federation and author of NRF’s Monthly Economic Review, July edition.
“This year began with high expectations for the strength of the U.S. economy,” Kleinhenz said, noting strong 2.8% yearover-year growth in gross domestic product in 2024 that was led by consumer spending and helped by business and government spending. “Since then, anxiety and confusion have taken center stage in the economy and financial markets as uncertainty over public policy has intensified. It was difficult to judge how policy changes would impact the economy in early 2025 and it remains so now.
“There are many crosscurrents,” Kleinhenz continued, “surrounding tariffs, immigration and deregulation and everyone is sorting through what the tariff rates are going to be, how they will impact inflation for retail products and, importantly, how long they will be in place.”
Food prices continue their own familiar pattern of volatility. According to the latest government data, the Consumer Price Index for food at home rose 0.3% from May to June and was up 2.2% on a 12-month basis.
Kleinhenz points out that Fed officials are closely watching the “inflation psychology” of consumers—how their expectations about future inflation influence their current spending and savings decisions and whether they are influenced by short-term price increases.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, consumers are indeed reining in their grocery spending. Its latest report shows that overall retail and foodservice sales dipped 0.9% and grocery sales slid 0.8% from April to May.
Meanwhile, supply chain software company Blue Yonder’s recently conducted its own global research, releasing its 2025 Global Consumer Sentiment on Grocery Inflation Survey that examined how sustained inflation, supply chain challenges and global tariffs are influencing grocery spending. The survey, which polled consumers across Australia and New Zealand, France, Germany, the Middle East, the United Kingdom, and the United States, found that 85% of overall respondents are concerned about inflation’s impact on grocery prices, illustrating consumer unease and clear changes in purchasing decisions across the world.
Consumers in the United States (65%), the United Kingdom (56%) and the Middle East (50%) feel global tariffs are the leading cause of rising prices.
Almost two-thirds of consumers (65%) report they would buy fewer grocery items across categories to cope with price increases, while 42% would shop at discount and wholesale stores. In addition, approximately one-third would prefer shopping based on promotions and discounts (36%) and switching to private label brands (34%). Alcohol is facing the biggest budget cuts compared to other grocery categories, with one-third (33%) of consumers saying they would reduce alcohol purchases in response to inflation price increases. This story originally appeared in DSN’s sister publication Progressive Grocer. This year began with high expectations for the strength of the U.S. economy,”
— Jack Kleinhenz, chief economist at National Retail Federation and author of NRF’s Monthly Economic Review,
DOLLAR TREE FINALIZES SALE OF FAMILY DOLLAR
Dollar Tree has completed the sale of Family Dollar to two private equity firms in a deal valued at just more than $1 billion.
Net proceeds from the sale are estimated to total approximately $800 million, comprising $665 million paid at closing and approximately $135 million as a result of the monetization of cash before closing through a reduction of net working capital.
The retailer now expects the economic impact of tax benefits from losses on the sale to be approximately $375 million. These amounts are subject to final adjustment approximately 90 days after the closing date. Brigade Capital Management, LP, and Macellum Capital Management, LLC, are now the new owners of Family Dollar.
“The completion of this transaction marks a defining moment for Dollar Tree,” said Mike Creedon, CEO of Dollar Tree.
“With a singular focus on our core business, we are doubling down on what we do best, delivering value, convenience,
and discovery to our customers every day. Now more than ever before, we are poised to accelerate our growth, innovate faster, and unlock our full potential as a category leader in value retail.”
As a standalone company, Dollar Tree said it will continue to grow through initiatives such as its expanded assortment, new store growth, and attracting new customers. Since the company’s founding nearly 40 years ago, Dollar Tree has grown to a 9,000-store footprint.
The transaction was announced on March 26, 2025, and concludes Dollar Tree’s review of strategic alternatives for the Family Dollar business segment, which began in June 2024.
This story originally appeared in DSN’s sister publication Store Brands. The completion of this transaction marks a defining moment for Dollar Tree.”
—Mike Creedon, CEO of Dollar Tree
INSTACART, WEGMANS LAUNCH CAPER CARTS PILOT
Instacart is launching Caper Carts—an AI-powered smart carts—at Wegmans Dewitt in Syracuse, N.Y. This marks the first deployment of Caper Carts at Wegmans, as part of an initial in-store program offering customers a smarter, more seamless way to shop in-store.
Caper Carts enable customers to track their spending and check out. Caper Carts automatically recognize items as they are dropped into the cart and customers can bag as they shop, tapping signals from an array of Caper Cart cameras, digital scale and location sensors connected to NVIDIA Jetson hardware.
Wegmans customers can log into their Shoppers Club account on the cart’s screen in order to shop with a Caper Cart.
“Caper Carts are transforming everyday grocery shopping into a faster, more personalized experience,” said David McIntosh, chief connected stores officer at Instacart. “We’re excited to partner with Wegmans–known for their exceptional customer and in-store experience–to bring this technology to their store. Together, we’re delivering customers a delightful and personalized shopping journey.”
The companies first partnered to offer same-day delivery in 2017 and have since expanded the partnership to include pickup, EBT SNAP acceptance, loyalty program integration and more. Caper Carts are part of Instacart Connected Stores, its suite of technologies bridging the online and instore experience.
VERSED EXPANDS RETAIL DISTRIBUTION TO ULTA BEAUTY
Skin care and makeup brand Versed is broadening its retail distribution, announcing that a wide assortment of its products is rolling out to more than 300 Ulta Beauty shelves and online.
“Launching makeup has been a longtime vision of mine for the Versed brand—grounded in our years of leadership in clean, effective skincare,” said Katherine Power, founder, Versed. “The incredible response from our community confirmed what I’ve always known: People with sensitive skin are underserved when it comes to high-performing, affordable makeup. Expanding into Ulta Beauty is a major milestone in meeting our customer where she’s already shopping for beauty.”
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Versed to our skincare and makeup assortment this summer,” said Kaitlin Rinehart, vice president of merchandising, Ulta Beauty. “As the nation’s largest beauty retailer, we are committed to expanding our assortment across two key categories our guests are highly engaged with to include brands that share our commitment to clean, conscious and cruelty-free solutions. Since Versed’s debut over five years ago, we’ve been inspired by their mission to redefine beauty standards by delivering high-performance skincare and makeup options that are accessible and effective. We are thrilled to be a part of their next phase of growth, allowing even more beauty lovers to discover the brand’s viral makeup assortment, along with their bestselling skincare solutions.”
WALGREENS UNVEILS MEN’S ZONE
Walgreens is rolling out a “Men’s Zone” in nearly 8,000 stores across the country—a dedicated space featuring an assortment of trendy and new men’s grooming and skincare products.
According to the retailer, the Men’s Zone reflects the retailer’s efforts to align in-store offerings with shifting shopper behavior, especially as male consumers increasingly incorporate self-care into their wellness routines.
The company also pointed out the following statistics: the global male grooming market is estimated to be worth $115 billion by 2028, up from nearly $80 billion in 2022; from 2022 to 2024, the number of U.S. men using facial skin care rose 68%.
The expanded men’s care assortment includes new products, with brands like Harry’s, Dr. Squatch and Mando.
Walgreens provided the following sponsored content highlighting some of the new products featured in the Men’s Zone: Harry’s Body Wash Wildlands Sandalwood & Cypress lathers and cleans without feeling harsh on skin. The scent includes notes of eucalyptus, cypress and white birch.
Cremo Body Wash, Italian Bergamot provides moisturizing and fragrant lather. This formula helps clean and moisturize.
For a great-smelling body wash, Thick Body Wash Bourbon — Oak Barrels + Aged Spirits provides a higher viscosity and unique fragrance, per Walgreens.
Dr. Squatch Deodorant Coconut Castaway is a natural men’s deodorant. Dr.Squatch’s “Odor-Squatching” formula contains natural deodorizers like charcoal powder to block odor, postbiotics for microbiome support and arrowroot powder to absorb moisture.
Every Man Jack Aluminum Free Deodorant Cedarwood is made with no aluminum or other harsh chemicals. This deodorant uses many naturally derived ingredients like lichen and cotton to help fight odor-causing bacteria and absorb moisture.
Harry’s Extra Strength Antiperspirant Wildlands features clinical strength, 72-hour sweat and odor protection and is formulated with a dual-odor blocking formula that neutralizes and blocks odor, while still being suitable for sensitive skin types.
Dr. Squatch Bar Soap, Wood Barrel Bourbon is fortified with birch bark and pumice powder. This bar soap has a medium-intensity scrub that’s gentle but thorough, the company said. Three times larger than common bar soaps and made with natural oils, Duke Cannon Bar Soap Bourbon smells like the crisp water of a lake up north, the company said. Duke Cannon Supply Company donates a portion of the proceeds to veterans’ causes.
If you are searching for a reliable supplier on top of all today’s important issues, look no further than Ascend Laboratories.
STOP & SHOP NAMES BOB YAGER EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS
Stop & Shop has named Bob Yager executive vice president of operations. Yager brings 35 years of experience in the grocery industry to this important role. He is known for his strategic leadership skills as well as his people-centered approach to development, both of which will enable him to help Stop & Shop grow to new levels of success, the company said in a LinkedIn post.
“Yager has been focused on removing friction for our customers and streamlining ways of working for our store management teams,” Stop & Shop said.
NACDS PROMOTES MARY MEDAWAR, ANDREW KLAPMUST TO VP ROLES
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores announced the promotions of Mary Medawar and Andrew Klapmust to vice president positions within the Industry Affairs & Member Relations team, reporting to senior vice president Steve Perlowski. The appointments reflect the organization’s “unwavering focus on member-driven progress and the advancement of chain pharmacy,” NACDS noted.
Mary Medawar, now vice president, exhibit programs and services, has been a catalyst for innovation and member engagement throughout her distinguished tenure, per the organization. Joining NACDS in 2001, Medawar fueled the launch of digital resources like the NACDS Market Exchange and event AI chatbots—tools that have revolutionized how members interact, collaborate and seize new opportunities, the association said.
Andrew Klapmust, promoted to vice president, membership, joined NACDS in 2005. Drawing on his expertise in hospitality, marketing and data management, Klapmust has driven onboarding, data integrity and reporting processes.
Medawar and Klapmust collaborate to lead the Meet the Market program at the NACDS Total Store Expo, an event that allows exhibitors and chain members to forge business partnerships.
“The promotions are more than acknowledgments of individual excellence — they are investments in the strength and future of our association and our industry,” said NACDS president and CEO Steve Anderson. “Mary’s innovative leadership in event programming has opened new doors for collaboration and growth, while Andrew’s relentless dedication to member service has helped to build and advance NACDS’ brand as a member-driven association.”
FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS
IMPLEMENTATION OF ARKANSAS ACT 624 BANNING PBMS FROM OWNING PHARMACIES
The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas Central Division has granted a preliminary injunction to stop the implementation of Act 624.
Act 624 states that, “[a] pharmacy benefits manager shall not acquire direct or indirect interest in, or otherwise hold, directly or indirectly a permit . . . for the retail sale of drugs or medicines in this state.”
The court order states, “In simple terms, Arkansas lawmakers have decided that they no longer want to allow PBMs to own or operate pharmacies in the state. Act 624 becomes effective on January 1, 2026, and plaintiffs, an industry trade association and various PBMs, are suing to stop it from taking effect. In the complaints, plaintiffs allege that Act 624 violates: (1) the Commerce Clause; (2) the Privileges and Immunities Clause; (3) the Supremacy Clause because it is preempted by (a) TRICARE, (b) ERISA, and (c) Medicare; (4) the Bill of Attainder Clause; (5) the Takings Clause; and (6) the Equal Protection Clause. Plaintiffs are now moving for a preliminary injunction to prevent enforcement of Act 624 until final disposition.”
“Having reviewed the briefs and conducted a hearing on July 23, the motions for a preliminary injunction are granted and Arkansas Act 624 is enjoined from taking effect because it likely violates the Commerce Clause and it is likely preempted by TRICARE,” the court order states.
The court order continued, “Accordingly, defendants Rodney Richmond, Brian Jolly, Debbie Mack, Lenora Newsome, Clint Boone, Walter Lyn Fruchey, Harold H. Simpson, Beth Ann Davenport, John C. Kirtley, their agents and successors in office, and all persons acting in concert with them are hereby ordered to refrain from enforcing Act 624 until final disposition.”
A CVS Health spokesperson provided DSN with the following statement, “We’re pleased with the Court’s decision to grant a preliminary injunction to stop the implementation of Act 624. We continue to be focused on serving people in Arkansas and are actively looking to work together with the state to reduce drug prices and ensure access to pharmacies.”
On May 29, 2025, CVS Health filed a lawsuit to block Arkansas Act 624, calling it “a harmful law that will shut down 23 CVS Pharmacy locations, eliminate hundreds of jobs and drive-up costs for Arkansans. This unconstitutional law puts local politics ahead of patients, restricting their access to life-saving medications and undermining fair competition.”
GOODRX TAPS FORMER AMAZON PHARMACY VETERAN AS PRESIDENT OF PHARMA SOLUTIONS
GoodRx is welcoming a new executive. Laura Jensen is joining the company as chief commercial officer and president of Pharma Solutions, effective July 28, 2025.
In this role, Jensen will lead the company’s pharma manufacturer solutions offering and oversee strategic initiatives aimed at growing and enhancing innovative partnerships across the pharmaceutical industry. Her deep cross-sector experience uniquely positions her to help revolutionize how patients access and afford their medications through the GoodRx platform, the company noted.
Jensen joins GoodRx from Amazon Pharmacy, where she served as head of manufacturer and prescriber business development. There, she led strategic partnerships that reimagined how patients access and manage their medications across both Amazon Pharmacy and PillPack. Her team was responsible for developing integrated experiences that connect prescribers and pharmacy workflows, driving innovation in patient engagement and health outcomes.
“We are thrilled to have Laura join our executive team,” said Wendy Barnes, Good Rx’s president and CEO. “We believe her deep experience across pharmaceutical, consumer health, and pharmacy ecosystems—combined with her passion for improving patient access—makes her uniquely suited to lead our growing pharma manufacturer solutions business. We are confident that Laura will help us deepen our impact and accelerate growth, ultimately helping the industry reimagine how patients access the care they need.”
Prior to her time at Amazon Pharmacy and PillPack, Jensen held influential roles at several leading pharmaceutical companies, including UCB and GlaxoSmithKline, where she led initiatives focused on sales, marketing, operations and commercial innovation.
Her cross-functional industry expertise and holistic view of the healthcare ecosystem will help ensure GoodRx continues pioneering new ways to advance patient access and affordability, the company said.
“Now, more than ever, pharma companies recognize that patients are looking for new ways to access their medications in the changing ecosystem of healthcare,” said Jensen. “I’m thrilled to join the GoodRx team that has built the most trusted and widely used medication savings platform by consumers and healthcare professionals in the country. By combining GoodRx’s large reach and scale with innovative access solutions, we have an incredible opportunity to help more people start and stay on the treatments they need.” dsn
NEXT-GENERATION CLEANSING FOR DRY AND OILY SKIN
The new Balancing Air Foam Cleanser hydrates, controls oil, and helps maintain the skin barrier with Glycolysine™ Cleansing Technology and 3 skin-identical ceramides.
New and Noteworthy
HRG’s five notable products from July
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Product introductions slowed down in July, as trade war fears return and volatility in the stock market continued.
In July, suppliers introduced 131 new products, 74 fewer items than they released in June. Waukesha, Wis.-based HRG reviewed 63 products in the health category (compared with 27 in June), 31 items in the wellness sector (compared to 125 in June) and 37 products in the beauty aisle (compared to 53 in June) to see which ones stood out as Products to Watch:
1. Cetaphil Hydrating and Firming Cream
Galderma said its Cetaphil Hydrating and Firming Cream for neck, chest and face is designed to firm, smooth and hydrate skin. It contains ingredients like centella asiatica to help restore the skin’s moisture barrier and mandelic acid AHA to reduce dull, uneven skin. The company said liposome encapsulation is meant to deliver ingredients deeper into the surface layers of the skin. Galderma also said the cream is clinically proven to improve overall skin quality in the neck after one week. It comes in a 3.4oz. tube.
2. Azo Menopause Relief Vaginal Moisturizer
Azo Menopause Relief Vaginal Moisturizer Suppositories by iHealth contain hyaluronic acid that soothes, lubricates and replenishes the body’s natural vaginal moisture. The company said that each suppository provides three days of relief and contains soothing vitamin E. It comes in a 10-ct. pack.
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3. Relesium GLP-1 Digestive Support Powder
Pantheryx said its Relesium GLP-1 Digestive Support Powder has been clinically shown to reduce nausea, diarrhea and GIrelated side effects. Per packaging, Relesium is formulated with a blend of immunoglobulins, antimicrobial peptides, macro and micro-nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds. The product is made from naturally derived ingredients that are safe to take every day, the company said. The product comes in a 6.5oz jar.
Procter & Gamble’s Vick’s Formula 44 DM Cough & Chest Congestion contains 10 mg of dextromethorphan HBr and 200 mg of guaifenesin. These ingredients are meant to temporarily relieve cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with a cold. According to the company, it helps loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions to rid the bronchial passageways of mucus. It comes in a 12-oz. bottle and is Berry flavored.
5. Blistex Cold Sore Treatment
Blistex’s Cold Sore Treatment is a fever blister treatment formulated with docosanol 10% cream. The company said it’s an FDAapproved medication designed to shorten healing time of cold sores or fever blisters. It comes in a .07-oz tube. dsn
Tariff-Driven Pricing
Unsurprisingly, AI is increasingly emerging as a key part of the solution
By Matthew Pavich
IMatthew Pavich is senior director of strategy and innovation at Revionics
t began with pandemic-induced supply shocks, morphed into historic inflation and has now entered a new phase: tariff-driven cost instability. This five-year run of volatility now appears to be the new normal, keeping retailers on edge as they respond to the latest disruptions.
For pharmacies, with their broad assortments and thin margins, tariffs aren’t just another disruption; they’re a call to action for a quick and strategic response.
These mounting pressures are driving many retailers to rethink their approach to pricing and promotions. Unsurprisingly, AI is emerging as a key part of the solution.
AI-powered pricing uses machine learning to analyze a wide range of data—sales history, demand elasticity, competitor pricing, seasonality and more—to recommend price strategies that balance margin protection with customer value. Done correctly, it’s a win-win approach that helps pharmacies stay consistent and competitive while also maintaining consumer trust. However, with pricing tools constantly getting faster and more advanced, the risk of retailers that don’t use AI run the risk of getting left behind. The real game changer is the speed, the breadth of data and the growing sophistication of today’s digital technology that now incorporates real-time demand signals, localized variables and the ability to simulate outcomes.
This evolution is especially promising amid tariff-linked volatility. Add in rising supplier costs, labor shortages, wage pressures and ever-shifting consumer behaviors, and it becomes abundantly clear that strategic pricing decisions have never been more critical—or less suited to manual spreadsheets or gut instincts.
To be sure, tariffs are just one of several headwinds pharmacies face amid mounting economic and operational strains. Cost-conscious consumers are increasingly turning to private labels, promotions and discounters. Although the purchase of products to address urgent health needs still remains largely
inelastic, shoppers now seek chronic medications and wellness products online or from mass merchants.
Even as these headwinds persist, health and wellness remains one of the few categories showing consistent above-trend growth. Clearly, pharmacies are highly motivated to defend their share of this momentum and have sharpened their value proposition, leaned into loyalty and pushed private labels.
Because pharmacies typically operate with a lean staffing model, their ability to execute manual pricing changes at scale is limited. This head count reality also underscores the need for electronic shelf labels and intelligent pricing systems that can work across locations with minimal intervention.
While difficult to pinpoint, tariffs could increase retailers’ costs by 25% or more. At the same time, they’re also causing a separate pricing dilemma: Passing along increases to consumers could result in lost traffic, while absorbing them puts margins at risk. It’s a classic catch-22 scenario in which AI-optimized pricing can help strike a balance.
For example, by analyzing elasticity, AI can identify where modest price increases are unlikely to hurt sales and where holding or even lowering prices is essential to maintaining loyalty. AI pricing systems can also evaluate indirect effects—such as how raising the price on a tariffed product could impact the sales of related items.
Given that tariffs have added yet another layer of complexity to an already challenging environment, it is abundantly clear that AI-powered pricing optimization is no longer a “nice to have”—it’s a strategic necessity.
For pharmacies, AI pricing is a strategic advantage that will protect margins and help drugstores gain supplier leverage and outpace discounters.
The cold, hard truth is that the AI pricing race is definitely on, and if your competitors have better technology than you, they’re ultimately going to win share. dsn
Pharmacists and Providers Collaborate
Providers and pharmacists are indispensable in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by modern healthcare
By Dr. Luke Twelves
VDr. Luke Twelves is vice president of medical at Lindus Health
irtual healthcare has transformed experiences in healthcare delivery for patients, researchers and healthcare providers through flexibility and convenient settings to receive care, improving diversity in trial populations, streamlining operational processes and more. As healthcare evolves with decentralized clinical trials, telemedicine and other patient-centric solutions, the responsibilities of providers and pharmacists have grown beyond their traditional scopes to encompass the integration of complex patient data, management of remote monitoring devices and medication access.
With the rise of digital health records and wearable devices, healthcare professionals must interpret vast amounts of data—such as EHRs, lab results, biometrics and patient-reported outcomes—to ensure participant safety in clinical trials and guide treatment plans in real-world practice.
Providers play a central role in synthesizing this information to form a holistic understanding of a patient’s condition, evaluating clinical data while accounting for individuals’ symptoms and unique experiences in a trial. Modern approaches such as the use of predictive analytics and decision-support tools can easily identify potential health risks and streamline clinical decision making.
Pharmacists contribute by ensuring that medication plans align with a patient’s complete health profile. They can assess
for drug interactions, contraindications and opportunities for therapeutic optimization. By collaborating closely, providers and pharmacists can ensure treatments are not only effective but also safe and tailored to the patient’s unique needs.
To navigate this complexity, they both rely on interoperable healthcare platforms that enable seamless data sharing across care teams. As healthcare evolves, proficiency in data analytics and information systems is an essential skill for both professions.
Remote monitoring devices have transformed how providers track and manage chronic conditions as well as monitor patient data in clinical trials. These devices, ranging from blood pressure cuffs to more advanced tools like cardiac monitors, allow for continuous data collection and real-time intervention from afar. However, integrating and managing these devices require both technical expertise and a patient-centered approach. Patients rely on providers to educate them on the proper use of remote monitoring devices, how to interpret the data and when to adjust treatment. Additionally, pharmacists play a crucial role in helping patients understand how these devices interfere with their medication regimens.
For these technologies to be truly effective, providers and pharmacists need to be collaborative to address issues like device connectivity, data accuracy and
treatment adherence. As digital health technologies evolve, ongoing professional development becomes essential to ensure the optimal use of remote monitoring devices in both clinical research and healthcare settings.
Medication access and efficacy are cornerstones of effective and equitable healthcare. In research, this includes spreading awareness of clinical trial opportunities through direct referrals from providers, print advertisements in doctors’ offices and pharmacies and using AI algorithms to identify patients who meet eligibility criteria for studies. In clinical practice, providers aim to prescribe effective treatments that consider factors like insurance coverage, potential side effects and patient preferences.
Pharmacists are the final safeguard in ensuring medication accuracy and counseling patients on proper medication use. With the rise of digital prescriptions, they mitigate risks associated with automated systems, checking for duplicate prescriptions or errors in electronic data transmission. Pharmacists also serve as patient advocates, working with insurance companies and manufacturers to address coverage gaps or secure alternative therapies during shortages.
Providers and pharmacists are indispensable in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by modern healthcare. By integrating complex patient data, managing remote monitoring devices and ensuring medication access and efficacy, they contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes safety, efficiency and personalized care. Their collaboration, supported by emerging technologies, is key to meeting the evolving needs of patients and advancing healthcare delivery. dsn
NDC 81603-6070-10
PASSIVE SAFETY NEEDLE NDC 81603-942-05
Mineral Beauty
Debor ah Dixon, founder of Precious Mineralz LLC, shares how the brand’s OUT OF MOUNTAINS line blends geology and clean science to deliver sustainable skincare—while giving back to people and pets in need.
Drug Store News: Tell us about Precious Mineralz LLC and how the OUT OF MOUNTAINS brand was created.
Deborah Dixon: The marriage between my husband Spenst Hansen, PhD, and I is not only a marriage in private life, it also is a marriage of our education, expertise and business experience. He is a PhD Geologist, Mining Engineer and has been successful in the mining industry. I earned a PhD in the Life Science area, and have worked at startups, small companies and a Fortune 500 company that develop and commercialize medical devices and diagnostics, food safety test kits and consumer products in the automotive and beauty industries.
Precious Mineralz LLC is in the Historic Tintic Mining District in Mammoth, Utah. It is privately owned and womanmajority-owned by him and I. We also own and operate Northstar Clay Mines LLC, an open pit mine, where we selectively collect and process Halloysite for use in skincare products. Because Halloysite is mined, we chose OUT OF MOUNTAINS as our trademarked brand. It also pays homage to the rich history of the mining industry in Utah. We say that OUT OF MOUNTAINS is the indie brand that geology built!
DSN: Can you tell us more about Halloysite and why it is so unique? What characteristics does it possess that make skincare products so effective?
DD: Halloysite is nanotubular kaolin clay. Kaolin is used in many cosmetic and skincare products. Structurally, it forms sheets. Due to certain geological conditions, the sheets roll up and form nanotubes. Halloysite is only mined in a handful of places in the world. Due to the nanotube size, they easily penetrate the skin and release key ingredients in a time-release fashion. This has been scientifically proven. Halloysite is considered Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA and is on the EPA’s Inert Ingredient List. Besides serving as a carrier for key ingredients, including peptides and hyaluronic acid, Halloysite has a MOHS Hardness Scale of 2-2.5. It is mildly abrasive and helps polish skin in exfoliating products. Additionally, it helps with “spreadibility.” It is a fascinating raw material, and we know how to apply it. At Precious Mineralz we say that our products help achieve beauty from the inside out!
DSN: Please share the philosophy behind the products and their formulation.
DD: Rather than introducing many products, we believe in a minimal approach. We offer products that work alone and complement each other. The face products include Rejuvenating
Deborah Dixon owner of Precious Mineralz LLC, and founder of OUT OF MOUNTAINS
Facial Cream Cleanser, Renewing Face Cream, Under Eye Correction Cream and Protective Lip Balm. The body products include Restorative Hand and Body Cream, Soothing Cuticle Balm, and Rich Body Polish. In addition, we offer Eyelash Booster and Eyebrow Booster. All products are:
• Clean – products are parabens free, talc free, phthalate free, have no artificial dyes or fragrances
• Sustainable – We formulate with many sustainable ingredients that are natural and upcycled.
• Recyclable Containers – all containers are recyclable
• Vegan – we use no animal derived ingredients
• Cruelty free – no testing is conducted on animals
DSN: What are the company plans beyond the current products?
DD: We will be launching a men’s line this year for skincare and grooming.
DSN: What is Precious Mineralz as a company passionate about? And you personally?
DD: Precious Mineralz is Purpose Driven. Our purpose is to Help Fight Hunger and Homelessness for People and Animals. Our two charitable organizations are Utah Food Bank and Best Friends Animal Society. They receive monetary and in-kind donations from our efforts at the company. We also support the Look Good Feel Better program through our membership at Professional Beauty Association. The program helps women fighting breast cancer.
I am a recreational musher and have had numerous huskies on my team that are rescues. I believe they deserve a second chance, and they show their gratitude for this new chapter. I advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Innovative, affordable solutions
Trividia Health is on a mission to make diabetes care easier to access
Lewis is vice president of global marketing at Trividia Health
DSN chatted with Jason Lewis, vice president of global marketing at Trividia Health, to expound on the diabetes products manufacturer’s commitment to patient affordability and its portfolio of TRUE products.
Drug Store News: How does Trividia Health help patients with diabetes?
Jason Lewis: With 40 years of experience and dedication, our goal is to provide innovative and affordable solutions to help millions of people with diabetes live and thrive in their everyday life.
We offer a full portfolio of essential products for wellness, including blood glucose monitoring, sharps, nutrition, ketone testing and home A1C testing. Our research and development team continues to be dedicated to the development of products that deliver outstanding performance and value. In addition, patients and healthcare providers can find useful educational content (available in multiple languages), product information, quick reference guides and many other resources on our website (www.trividiahealth.com), or contact our U.S.-based customer care team for help and answers to questions.
DSN: Where can patients find TRUE products?
JL: With manufacturing facilities in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Trividia Health is the largest U.S. manufacturer of pharmacy branded products for people with diabetes. The TRUE brand of products is available nationwide at premier retail drug stores, distributors and independent pharmacies. Products are sold under the TRUE METRIX® and TRUEplus® brand names, as well as the pharmacy brand names of our partners, so patients can easily and conveniently find our products everywhere instore and online.
DSN: Why should a healthcare provider recommend TRUE METRIX to their patients?
JL: The TRUE METRIX® blood glucose monitoring system achieves a level of performance driven by science, research and technological advancements. The TRUE METRIX® System exceeds the more stringent minimum ISO 15197:2013 performance requirements.*
We also understand the impact of growing healthcare costs, and what clearly differentiates us is our commitment to making blood glucose monitoring more affordable. For patients who are insured, the TRUE METRIX® Portfolio has national coverage with over 250 million contracted lives with pharmacy benefit managers, managed care plans, Medicare Part B and multiple Managed Medicaid plans and state Fee-for-service Medicaid programs.** For patients who are under- or uninsured or have a high-deductible plan, we offer a full array of products over the counter for cash purchase, as well as co-pay assistance programs. In addition, many of our products are also HSA and FSA eligible.
DSN: Why are you the partner of choice for patients, healthcare providers, pharmacies, and distributors?
JL: Simple Trividia Health is dedicated to providing innovative and affordable solutions for patients with diabetes to live healthier lives.
Lewis joined Trividia Health in 2024, but began his career as a registered pharmacist, working in the critical care setting at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pittsburgh, PA. Lewis brings 25+ years of knowledge and leadership experience in the medical device space that encompasses marketing, market access and sales.
*Data on File. MKT0522. Evaluation of Accuracy and User Performance of the TRUE METRIX® Blood Glucose Monitoring System. MKT0528. Evaluation of Accuracy and User Performance of the TRUE METRIX® AIR Blood Glucose Monitoring System.
These are the biggest challenges facing retail pharmacy (other than PBM reform)
By Mark Hamstra
Retail pharmacy operators face an array of challenges beyond PBM reform, which many observers say remains the single biggest ob stacle to operating successfully in today’s environment.
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Among the most pressing issues is how the Medicare price negotiations that were included in the Inflation Reduction Act will play out at the retail level. Many retailers are concerned that reimbursement mechanisms might not be adequate to support their cash flow needs. In addition, the reimbursement models that evolve for GLP1 drugs and other high-cost medications could also pose challenges for retailers.
Many of the challenges that retailers are seeking to resolve are more operational in nature, however, including rethinking the store business model, attracting and retaining qualified labor and implementing technology systems that increase efficiency and
protect against the theft of customer data.
Overall, the air of uncertainty that has been impacting businesses across industries this year only compounds the problems that drugstore retailers face. Interest rates, inflation, tariffs on imported goods and consumer confidence are among the broad economic issues that could suddenly present new challenges at any time.
The following is a closer look at five key challenges—other than PBM reform—that the retail pharmacy industry is currently contending with.
1Rethinking the drug store operating model
The prevalent retail drug store business model has been over built and doesn’t meet the demands of today’s consumers, said Howard Meitiner, managing director at consulting firm Carl Marks Advisors.
“This model faces negative factors lowering profitability, such as shrinking reimbursement rates and increased competition from online retailers, big-box retailers like Walmart and Costco and dollar stores,” he said.
Many stores have failed to provide the service levels required to support an enjoyable in-store experience for customers, he said, and a focus on offering household staples, such as toilet paper, has proven to be unprofitable and left drug stores vulnerable to competition from lower-priced operators.
Meitiner also cited the impact that shoplifting has had on re tail merchandising, citing studies showing that locking products, as many drug stores have done to curb theft, negatively impacts sales and detracts from the in-store experience.
“This is a major dilemma impacting drug stores right now, with convenience, simplicity and efficiency becoming the new essential drivers in consumer trends,” he said.
“Today, prescription services are truly the only compelling reason for customers to visit drug stores.”
— Howard Meitiner, managing director, Carl Marks Advisors
Meanwhile, many drug stores are too large, which drives up their operating costs, and the big chains have too many stores in their fleets, operating more locations than are needed to meet local demands in many neighborhoods, Meitiner said.
“Today, prescription services are truly the only compelling reason for customers to visit drug stores, and attempts to create
other attractions have been mixed,” he said, citing the challenges that Walgreens has faced with its VillageMD clinic operations.
To mitigate these issues, pharmacies have been closing unprofitable stores, implementing cost-cutting initiatives and expanding healthcare services. It’s not yet clear, however, if these moves have gone far enough and if they are having a negative impact on customer service, Meitiner said.
“Drug stores need to identify a compelling and integrated new brand marketing proposition that brings together these changes to the operating model,” he suggested.
Recent earning reports underscored the challenges that retailers face in driving front-of-store sales.
At Walgreens, retail sales were down 5.3% in the company’s third fiscal quarter compared with year-ago results, including a 2.4% decrease in incomparable-store sales. The company attributed the decline to weaker sales in grocery and household products, health and wellness and beauty.
“The front of store—health and beauty products, snacks, household goods—all continue to be squeezed by competition from big box stores, and the usual suspects like Amazon,” said David Patterson, associate partner at Clarkston Consulting. “I think as we’ve encountered increasing inflationary pressures, shoppers are looking to the Walmarts or the Costcos due to perceived savings.”
2“In a world where reimbursements and profit are continually going down and wages for employees are going up, it’s difficult to continue to raise people’s pay and continue to run a pharmacy”
— Mark Ey, chief operating officer, NCPA
Staffing to optimize the customer experience
Providing high levels of in-store service requires retailers to ensure that their stores are staffed at the right levels. However, attracting and retaining qualified employees poses an ongoing challenge for retail pharmacy operators, and it is one that is only expected to become more difficult to overcome in the years ahead.
“We are hearing across the board that a lot of pharmacies are struggling with staffing,” said Mark Ey, chief operating officer at the National Community Pharmacists Association. “In a world where reimbursements and profit are continually going down and wages for employees are going up, it’s difficult to continue to raise people’s pay and continue to run a pharmacy.”
An NCPA survey last fall found that 70% of independent pharmacy managers reported difficulty filling open staff positions. That included 80% who said filling pharmacy technician positions was challenging. Although pharmacist positions were not seen as hard to fill as technicians, 42% of pharmacy managers said they did have difficulty hiring enough pharmacists.
The labor challenges have been exacerbated by state-mandated increases in the minimum wage, as well as competition for labor from other employers such as large chain retailers, said EY. The result is that pharmacies are often trying to find ways to operate with fewer employees, often through the use of more automation.
“Many retailers are saying that if they have to pay somebody $20 an hour, then they are going to go with three pharmacy technicians instead of four, for example,” he said. “The ultimate result of these high wages is the removal of jobs, unfortunately.”
The aging baby boomer population is also impacting the labor challenges that retail pharmacies will face in the coming years. As more and more of these seniors retire and leave the workforce, they will also increasingly require more healthcare services.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of pharmacists overall will grow 5% per year from 2023 through 2033, with about 14,200 openings per year.
“Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire,” the BLS reported.
Some research also shows that the number of Doctor of Pharmacy graduates is not expected to keep pace with this demand. In 2026, only about 8,000 students are expected to graduate with Doctor of Pharmacy degrees, or about 60% of the number that will be needed to fill open positions, according to research from the
3
University of Missouri-Kansas City and the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis.
Despite the largest drug store chains closing hundreds of stores across the country—including the bankruptcy and liquidation of Rite Aid—store-level jobs can remain difficult to fill, Ey said.
“With Rite Aid’s exit, you’d think there’d be a pool of available candidates for employment,” he said. “But most of those stores seem to be getting bought up by the chains or regionals, and so it looks like a lot of their staff will end up working for those corporations instead of being available to independents that may want to pick them up.”
Technology investments: ecommerce, AI and cybersecurity
Closely related to the labor challenges that retail pharmacies face is their need to invest in technologies that boost efficiency and minimize their labor costs.
While personal interactions with customers are an important element of pharmacy operations, “I do think there’s plenty of room to automate,” said Patterson of Clarkston Consulting, citing functions such as inventory management and prescription bottle filling.
These technology solutions present an opportunity for retailers, but each time a new technology is implemented it also brings an element of risk and new costs in terms of implementation and maintenance.
Other technology challenges include the need for investment in digital commerce, the implementation of artificial intelligence and the need to invest in cybersecurity.
Patterson noted that drug stores need to invest in upgrading their consumer-facing digital offerings as well.
“When you look at the drug store space, many lag behind in terms of the omnichannel experiences that most shoppers expect at this point,” he said.
Meanwhile, finding solutions that leverage artificial intelligence is another technology investment that drug store retailers need to pursue.
A recent Boston Consulting Group survey
of U.S. and European companies found a large shift of IT budgets toward AI and away from other areas. Nearly half of respondents—48%—said they planned to allocate more spending toward machine learning and AI solutions, the biggest increase of any category. Close behind were increases in spending on cloud services (up 36%) and security infrastructure (up 29%), while companies reported cutting back on investments in server infrastructure, devices, systems and services management, and other areas.
lack the resources to invest in the technology and cybersecurity solutions that their larger counterparts can afford, he said.
Ey of NCPA agrees that cybersecurity investments represent a significant challenge for smaller independent drugstores in particular.
This year has seen a flurry of cybersecurity breaches in the healthcare sector overall, following the massive Change Healthcare breach of a year ago that interrupted prescription fulfillment processes at thousands of pharmacies.
“While spending is up, the pie is still only so large,” BCG concluded, noting that companies appear to be seeking to extend the life of their technology hardware and delay some other investments in order to fund their other tech priorities.
The survey respondents’ focus on security highlights the growing challenges that retailers face around cybersecurity, especially as they invest in digital connectivity both with their customers and with other players in the healthcare ecosystem.
“There are data security concerns that come with a lot of these new digital platforms, and the more of them that you offer, the more you have to maintain and keep secure,” said Patterson.
This poses particular challenges for smaller chains and independents, which might
More than 300 million patient records were breached in 2024, a 26% increase compared to 2023, according to the 2025 Breach Barometer report from Bluesight, a provider of solutions for health systems and hospital pharmacies.
“Retail IT professionals say that small businesses can be more vulnerable because most of them don’t have the level of cybersecurity that the big box stores or the big health systems have,” said Ey. “That’s why a lot of our pharmacies are beefing up their capabilities to ensure that their patients’ data is protected.
“It’s an added cost to purchase those IT support systems and the insurance that is often required to protect you from a breach that could put you out of business,” he said.
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How pharmacies can restore their vitality
Howard Meitiner, managing director at consulting firm Carl Marks Advisors, offered the following suggestions for drug stores to combat some of the operational challenges they face:
• Protect a minimum standard of in-store service by slashing corporate overhead. Be ruthless in eliminating bureaucracy and be mindful of retaining talent.
• Embrace in-store technologies that enhance the customer service experience, address efficiency and customer access to necessary information and form a part of an integrated omnichannel platform.
• Look for imaginative new strategic partnerships that will build in-store foot traffic by aligning with third-party operators to provide other “destination” type services. For example, these could be pop-up healthcare services, clinics, printing services or image centers.
• Reduce the size of the average store by 50% and focus on a curated assortment of items built around the healthcare sector and other impulse items at the checkout.
• Make sure AI is being leveraged to drive operational and distribution productivity efficiency.
4
Drug pricing issues loom
One of the biggest concerns in the months ahead for retail pharmacies is how they will be reimbursed under the Medicare prescription drug price negotiation that was part of the Inflation Reduction Act. Under that plan, Medicare has negotiated drug prices with manufacturers for 10 different drugs, effective in January 2026.
The challenge for many smaller pharmacy operators is that they will likely be buying the drug at the regular price, billing Medicare for the lower, negotiated price and then seeking a rebate from the manufacturer. The process for adjudicating those claims has not yet been finalized, which could lead to a cash flow crunch for retail pharmacies.
“The challenge is that the government didn’t really set forth any real regulations and/or guidelines for CMS to implement this,” said Ey.
It’s not yet clear how the process for obtaining the rebates from manufacturers will be structured, Ey explained.
“We might not know what their process is for those rebated parts of the claim until 90 days before the implementation of the actual project, which could be a real problem,” he said. “Not many things can be implemented at that scale inside 90 days.”
5
Payment for GLP-1 drugs could impact retailers
Although payer coverage for GLP-1 drugs has been increasing during the last few years, the drugs remain expensive, and many insurance plans do not cover them or have placed restrictions on their coverage.
The surge in popularity of these drugs has been a big driver of same-store sales at retail drug stores, said Elizabeth Anderson, an analyst at Evercore ISI, adding that retailers might need to leverage new payment models to ensure they capture these sales.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have soared in popularity due to their ability to stave off hunger, helping patients lose weight. However, with costs as high as $1,350 per month, many patients need assistance to cover the costs if they are not covered by their insurance plans.
“A lot of high-cost branded drugs have a challenging reimbursement model for retail pharmacies,” said Anderson.
She cited efforts such as CVS NovoCare, which launched in July, as a potential solution. That program is a partnership between CVS and Novo Nordisk, which makes Wegovy, through which CVS Caremark, CVS Health’s PBM, will make Wegovy the preferred GLP-1 medication on its standard formularies.
In addition, while sales of prescription drugs overall have been on the rise, a significant portion of the sales gains have come from specialty drugs, often driven by specialty pharmacies, said Anderson. “That’s something that perhaps the in-person drug stores, whether chain or independent, have not been able to take part in as much,” she said. dsn
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THE 3 BEST (AND 3 WORST) STATES FOR HEALTHCARE VALUE
How cost, outcomes and access combine to shape health value in the United States
The top-performing states show that prevention-focused care and smart systems drive results, without excessive spending.”
— Simon Greenberg, founder of Medidex
Medidex, an AI-powered medical chatbot platform, conducted an analysis to determine which states offer the best value for residents’ healthcare dollars. The goal of the analysis is to help Americans understand where their healthcare investments deliver the strongest results.
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“Healthcare spending doesn’t always translate to better health outcomes,” said Simon Greenberg, founder of Medidex. “Our analysis reveals significant disparities between what states spend on healthcare and the actual health results their residents experience. Some states achieve excellent outcomes while spending far less than others.”
Medidex’s study evaluated all 50 states using six core factors:
1. Annual healthcare expenditure per capita
2. Life expectancy
3. Preventable hospital admission rates
4. Percentage of elderly adults reporting good or excellent health
5. Mortality rates from treatable conditions
6. Insurance coverage rates
Each factor was measured using the most recent available government and health organization data, then combined into a single healthcare value score out of 100, with higher scores indicating better overall healthcare performance. Does your state stack up? See the results below:
UTAH
Maximum Value at Minimum Cost
• Healthcare Value Score: 75.12 (#1 in the nation)
• Per Capita Spending: $7,522
• Life Expectancy: 78.2 years
• Preventable Hospital Admissions: 1,505 per 100,000 residents
• Elderly in Excellent Health: 53.4%
Utah demonstrates that smart healthcare systems can deliver outstanding results without breaking the bank,” Greenberg said.
Key takeaway: Utah combines low spending with high performance, thanks to a focus on preventive care and healthy lifestyles—making it a model for other states.
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COLORADO:
High Performance Across All Metrics
• Healthcare Value Score: 73.53 (#2 in the nation)
• Per Capita Spending: $8,583
• Life Expectancy: 77.7 years
• Preventable Hospital Admissions: 1,569 per 100,000 residents
• Insurance Coverage: 93.3%
• Mortality from Treatable Conditions: 65.1 per 100,000
Colorado’s success stems from its combination of active population lifestyle and accessible healthcare infrastructure,” Greenberg said.
Key takeaway: With moderate spending and an emphasis on prevention and access, Colorado proves that a balanced, proactive approach delivers exceptional value.
IDAHO:
Surprising Efficiency
• Healthcare Value Score: 73.05 (#3 in the nation)
• Per Capita Spending: $8,148
• Life Expectancy: 77.2 years
• Preventable Hospital Admissions: 1,493 per 100,000 residents
• Mortality from Treatable Conditions: 65.7 per 100,000
• Preventable Hospital Admissions: 3,859 per 100,000 residents
• Elderly in Good Health: 38.8%
• Mortality from Treatable Conditions: 126.6 per 100,000
West Virginia’s situation highlights how higher spending doesn’t guarantee better outcomes,” Greenberg said.
Key takeaway: Despite significant spending, West Virginia faces poor outcomes due to geographic, systemic and population health challenges—showing that investment without accessibility and prevention falls short.
MISSISSIPPI:
Lowest Life Expectancy Despite Spending
• Healthcare Value Score: 50.27 (Second-lowest nationally)
• Per Capita Spending: $9,394
• Life Expectancy: 70.9 years (Lowest in the United States)
• Preventable Hospital Admissions: 3,371 per 100,000 residents
• Mortality from Treatable Conditions: 140.7 per 100,000 (Highest in the United States)
• Insurance Coverage: 89.7%
Key takeaway: Mississippi spends more than many highperforming states, yet faces critical health gaps, including the lowest life expectancy and highest treatable mortality— underscoring the importance of systemic reform, not just funding.
WHAT HEALTHCARE VALUE MEANS FOR PHARMACIES
“When evaluating new markets, pharmacies should look beyond population size or prescription volume and consider the full healthcare landscape,” Greenberg said.
High-value states like Utah, Colorado and Idaho offer opportunities for preventive care services, health screenings and wellness partnerships, which align with consumer expectations and state health priorities.
In low-value states like West Virginia or Mississippi, pharmacies can play a critical role in bridging healthcare gaps—especially in underserved rural areas, where they may be the most accessible care point. Expanding clinical offerings (e.g., vaccinations, chronic care management, medication therapy reviews) in states with high preventable hospitalization rates can directly improve local outcomes—and demonstrate impact to payers and partners. Pharmacies positioned in efficient systems can better engage in value-based care initiatives, pilot programs and health equity investments.
LOUISIANA:
Persistent Healthcare Challenges
• Healthcare Value Score: 53.09
• Per Capita Spending: $10,515
• Life Expectancy: 72.2 years
• Preventable Hospital Admissions: 3,379 per 100,000 residents
• Elderly in Good Health: 43.3%
Key takeaway: Louisiana’s data points to systemic issues in healthcare quality and access. Even with average spending, preventable hospitalizations and poor self-reported elder health drag down value.
Beauty enthusiasts are on the hunt for products that serve more than one purpose and help channel viral social media trends
By Gisselle Gaitan
Just as the seasons change, so do the trends in the beauty space. Whether it’s utilizing bright and bold colors for the warmer months or treading back to darker hues for the winter, one size does not fit all seasons in the cosmetics space.
“Consumers are gravitating toward multi-use products and long-wear formulas that simplify routines and offer lasting performance,” said Kelly Sobol, senior vice president of North America sales and customer development at Milani Cosmetics. “A particularly notable trend is the rising demand for hybrid skin care-makeup innovations and also heightened interest in hybrid skincare-makeup products.”
There’s a growing demand for products that serve more than one use and have extended longevity when it comes to application. One example is Milani Cosmetics’ Keep It Full Glossy Plumping Balm, which combines the benefits of a gloss, balm and plumper into one with a wide range of shades, the brand said.
“In product development, we’re always striving to deeply understand what our customers want and what makes
ingredients truly effective, leading to more targeted and effective formulas that really hit the mark,” an executive of Beauty 21 Cosmetics shared.
The company implemented this strategy with LA Girl USA’s Stay and Play Lip Crayon, which offers vibrant and bold color to the lips, alongside its On Cloud Nine Bouncy Blush Bronzer for a sculpted and flushed finish.
“We hear loud and clear from our community that people want products that do more,” a Beauty 21 Cosmetics spokesperson said. “Whether it’s makeup with skincare benefits or multi-use sticks for eyes, lips and cheeks, hybrid beauty is definitely in demand. Clean, ‘free-from’ formulas are also top of mind— everyone’s looking for options without parabens, sulfates and other ingredients they’re trying to avoid.”
Consumers are interested in what ingredients are going into their products, and pushing brands for more transparency. Budget friendly brand Revolution Beauty recently launched its Superdewy Blush Burst, which provides a soft-focus blurring
effect and is formulated with menthone glycerin acetal for a tingling sensation, the brand said. The blush also contains poppy extract to firm and smooth and peptides and hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate.
According to the “Transforming Beauty Retail: AI Across the Value Chain, from Innovation to Personalization” study by Coresight Research, AI is transforming the beauty industry from a trend-based, reactive market into a data-driven, proactive ecosystem. The technology now underpins everything from research and development to consumer engagement, enabling faster innovation and more sustainable operations.
“Milani has embraced tech-driven beauty in several ways,” Sobol said. “On the marketing front, the brand utilizes augmented reality try-on tools to let users test lip, eye, and complexion products virtually. It also uses AIenhanced personalization in digital campaigns, ensuring that customers receive recommendations tailored to their skin tone and preferences. This techforward approach enhances the customer experience while driving stronger engagement and conversions.”
Beauty 21 Cosmetics also has embraced the AI model. “We’ve also made big strides in using technology to enhance customer experience,” an executive said.
“We’ve teamed up with key retailers to bring Augmented Reality Try-On capabilities directly to their e-commerce platforms, and of course, it’s on our own website too. This lets you virtually try on makeup products from the comfort of your home, making your online shopping journey so much better and really helping with purchase decisions.”
Allowing customers to try-on whatever product they are considering also indirectly influences the way they shop for these beauty essentials. In the “Beauty Unleashed: The Evolution of Digital Retail in the Amazon and TikTok Era” study from NielsenIQ, the notion of social selling is blowing up.
This means that consumers are using social media to look for products, resulting in 68% of purchases on social platforms being categorized as impulse
buys. As a result, platforms like TikTok, Temu, Shein and Instagram are influencing consumers much more than they realize.
Social media has also influenced how brands are approaching viral beauty trends. “Trends like ‘latte makeup,’ ‘color draping’ and ‘glass skin’ are dominating social media platforms, and Milani is meeting the moment with high-performance products that deliver prestige-level formulas at accessible price points,” Sobol stated.
“On TikTok and Instagram, we’re seeing three big makeup trends really steal the spotlight: the ‘Effortless Glam’ and ‘Clean Girl’ Aesthetic, the comeback of Bold Lips (think ‘Cherry Cola Lips’ and vampy reds), and the overall push for Bold and Expressive Looks. Our brand is right there with you, diving into these trends with new products, awesome content, and by genuinely connecting with our community,” the Beauty 21 Cosmetics executive said.
No matter how one looks at it, social media is influencing beauty trends and companies are taking notice. dsn
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Man in the Mirror
Male customers are driving much-needed incremental sales in the beauty business
Men are starting to shop for grooming products like, well, women.
They are selecting their own items, they like a dedicated department, seek simplified skin care, and fragrances are in their baskets. What’s more, clean ingredients are in demand, and hair health is top of mind.
“Men are becoming much more interested in skin care and grooming products and like products made specifically for them,” said Deborah Dixon, founder of Precious Mineralz. “They like a minimal number of products that may have multiple benefits, such as hydrating, moisturizing and also helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Further evidence of a men’s boom includes Unilever’s recent purchase of Dr. Squatch—one of only a handful of men-focused brands that have been acquired over the last few years. Dr. Squatch has been on a growth trajectory in categories such as non-deodorant soap, where it is now the number two seller
behind Dove, and traditional deodorant, where sales have soared 130%, according to Circana.
“I am incredibly proud of what the Dr. Squatch team has achieved thus far. Our mission at Dr. Squatch is to inspire and educate men to be happier and healthier, and we’re excited about our ability to amplify our brand and mission in this next chapter with Unilever,” said Josh Friedman, CEO of Dr. Squatch. “We’re just getting started at Dr. Squatch, and we are thrilled about the opportunity to advance the brand’s scale, reach new heights internationally, and entertain and positively connect with more consumers seeking high-quality, natural products around the world.” The brand is sold in Walmart, CVS and others.
Dr. Squatch is one of the anchor brands in a new Men’s Zone department rolling out in about 8,000 Walgreens stores. The retailer said the move reflects the fact more men are adopting self-care routines. Cremo, Harry’s, Duke Cannon, Every Man Jack and Mando are other brands in the assortment, which is
spotlighted on end caps in many of the doors.
Target’s trailblazing men’s area is stocked with major brands and its Goodfellow house label. CVS also has dedicated men’s aisles in many stores.
Last year, Ulta Beauty announced plans to amplify its men’s assortment, including men’s fragrances, which have been a bright spot in Ulta’s performance, said new CEO Kecia Steelman.
There’s more growth ahead.
The U.S. men’s grooming products market was estimated at $47 billion in 2023 by Grand View Research. It is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.3% from 2024 to 2030.
In the mass market, several men’s categories posted gains for the 52 weeks ended March 23, 2025, according to Circana. Shaving lotions/men’s fragrance sales rose almost 10%, hair cutting tools soared 26% and electric shaver dollar volume was up nearly 3%. Those were welcomed gains in categories that had been flat and at a juncture where overall beauty is slowing.
Innovations in men’s skin care are driving incremental sales. Nivea Men responded to research that U.S. men cited signs of aging as a top skin care concern. More than 75% of Gen Z and millennial male
skin care users surveyed agree that it’s important to maintain a youthful appearance. In response, Nivea Men formulated its Age Defense line, an easy-to-follow skin care system.
The product range addresses five key signs of aging: loss of firmness, wrinkles, dryness, rough texture and dullness.
Precious Mineralz LLC recently launched a men’s line under the Out of Mountains brand. The initial offering includes skin care products, as well as beard and mustache grooming products. Dixon said the men’s line is vegan, cruelty-free, uses clean ingredients, many natural and sustainable ingredients and has recyclable containers. Products contain halloysite—a nanotubular clay, which is the unique ingredient in the product line and brand.
Genderless products have served as a bridge for men to explore fragrances and skin
care.
Manscaped leveraged its reputation in grooming tools with expansion into skin care with Skin Ultra. “Expanding into skin care was a natural evolution for us and one driven by our steadfast mission to deliver head-to-toe grooming solutions for men,” said Paul Tran, founder and CEO of Manscaped “Skin Ultra brings our brand’s legacy of trusted quality, thoughtful design, and everyday ease to the skin care space, giving guys a straightforward way to look good, feel confident, and take better care of their skin.”
Because men’s skin is typically thicker, oilier and more prone to irritation because of higher testosterone levels, Skin Ultra was formulated to strike the right balance between results-driven ingredients and gentle nourishment, according to Tran.
Genderless products have served as a bridge for men to explore fragrances and skin care, experts said. Deodorants and body sprays marketed as non-gender-specific, such as Native, Youth to the People and AKT London, are examples. Native deodorant sales jumped 11% for the 52 weeks ended March 23, 2025, according to Circana, which lifted the brand two spots in the top-selling list.
Even though Fine’ry fragrances score high with men and women, Oshiya Savur, chief brand officer at Maesa, spotted the opportunity to move into the men’s aisle. Fine’ry
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launched nine new scents in black ombre packages versus the original jewel tones.
Several men’s items are experiencing a healthy sales bounce, including a 74% dollar increase for Duke Cannon and a 61% spike for Tree Hut.
Duke Cannon distinguishes its brand from competitors with its rugged, unapologetically masculine image reinforced by bold campaigns. To support its new packaging, the brand featured films called Earn Your Clean with the premise that hardworking men “earn” their showers. One spot shows a septic tank cleaner tackling a porta potty and then enjoying a much-needed shower.
Tree Hut has a different competitive edge. The brand is a viral success with Gen Alpha and Gen Z. The parent company, Naterra, recently launched a companion brand called Bdy to attract older Gen Z and millennials.
Men are also focusing on their hair and following trends in the women’s sector. One of the biggest moves has been to natural styles—an ongoing evolution in women’s styles, too.
“In 2025, guys are leaning into texture. From loose waves to tight curls, more men are embracing what they’ve got instead of fighting it,” said Juan Morillo, officer manager for Okay Pure Naturals. “Whether it’s the return of the modern perm or just letting natural curl patterns shine, the trend is about healthy, effortless style that feels personal and low maintenance.”
Okay’s answer is its Men Curls & Waves collection, including products like the Curls Mousse, which provides a lightweight hold without stiffness, making it easy to enhance shape and definition after a quick towel dry, Morillo said.
“This year’s look is all about natural texture, healthy shine, and confidence. And more men are finding that with the right products, curls and waves don’t need to be complicated. They just need the right care.”
As part of its biggest launch lineup in decades, Suave addressed requests from men for products curated for them.
“We’re coming out with products men have been asking for, like deodorants, body washes and hair care products,” said Rafael Lopes, Suave’s vice president of innovation and brand equity. Suave designed its first advertising campaign around men, featuring sponsorship of the Kelce Brothers podcast and TV advertising.
Drug and discount stores are the go-to channel for DIY hair growth or removal. Sales in the category rose 12.3% through March, per Circana.
BosleyMD sales jumped in the triple digits thanks to increased distribution and more men becoming aware of its sciencebacked claims.
“Mass retailers are significantly expanding men’s hair regrowth offerings. BosleyMD’s science-backed, clinically proven solutions are shown right on the packaging, creating consumer confidence when purchasing hair care products,” said Colleen Camp, a certified trichologist and education authority who works with
Revive Volumizing Conditioner BosleyMD
Curls Mousse Okay Pure Naturals
the BosleyMD brand. BosleyMD contains 5% Minoxidil Regrowth Treatment, DHT-blocking Shampoo and Conditioner, Vitality Supplement and Revive+ Densifying Foam.
Wahl has the solution for removing hair, especially for those who trim their own. The new Wahl Self-Clip 360 includes features that the company designed after studying self-haircutters. The new blade features an angle designed for precision, soft dual grips, a long runtime and secure cutting guards.
Philips Norelco is leveraging AI with a new shaver that’s almost as good as a private barber. AI powers the i9000 Prestige Ultra to deliver the ultimate in personalization. A component of the new shavers is SenseIQ Pro, which utilizes AI to provide real-time coaching feedback on
the ideal shaving pressure and optimal shaving motions. Users can use the GroomTribe app for real-time shaving guidance and a new skin analyzer.
“At Philips Norelco, we know no two faces are the same, so why should our users have the same shaving experience? Since our first rotating electric razor debuted in 1939, understanding and actioning ourselves around our audiences’ needs has been at the heart of every design choice we’ve made,” stated Rafael Viestel da Silva, Philips grooming and beauty marketing director. “It’s why personalization, premium performance and highly innovative technology are at the core of what makes this product so momentous.” dsn
Men’s Eau de Cologne, Smoke & Leather Fine’ry
31,200
Science Forward
Neutrogena and Aveeno are merging clinical credibility, consumer trust and cultural relevance to redefine mass beauty innovation
By Julianne Mobilian
As skin care evolves from aspirational promises to science-backed results, Kenvue is positioning its brands at the intersection of efficacy, accessibility and influence. In a conversation with DSN, Andrew Stanleick, president of skin health and beauty, North America and EMEA at Kenvue, discusses how the company is responding to shifting consumer expectations with evidence-based innovation, dermatologist-driven campaigns and creator collaborations that resonate on platforms like TikTok. From sun care reformulations to social commerce strategies, the company is focused on democratizing skin health.
DSN: What recent consumer trends in skin health and beauty are driving your innovation pipeline?
Andrew Stanleick, President, Skin Health & Beauty, North America and EMEA, Kenvue: There are a few trends we’re seeing—the first is the idea that people no longer want hope in a jar. They want products that work—they want products backed by science, data and real results. In a new report from Kenvue, A New View of Care, we found that routines help people manage stress, age well and build confidence in their bodies. This reinforces the importance of routine in people’s lives—beyond the functional benefits. Skin care is one way people participate in routines.
In essence, we are truly democratizing beauty for everyone by providing accessible, efficacious products.
Andrew Stanleick President of Skin Health and Beauty, North America and EMEA, Kenvue
DSN: With growing consumer interest in ingredients and skin science, how are your brands educating shoppers in the mass channel?
AS: We know from Kenvue’s report that healthcare providers stand out as the most trusted voices for credible personal care guidance. Nearly two-thirds of consumers (62%) trust their primary care or other healthcare providers when seeking information about routines.
In our work, we are creating opportunities to amplify the voice and recommendations of healthcare professionals.
In January, Neutrogena introduced a new brand positioning, Beauty to A Science, which exemplifies Neutrogena’s 90-year history of being a pioneer in the skincare industry and working closely
with dermatologists to obsessively formulate superior products that have premium aesthetics and are scientifically proven to work.
Under this new positioning, the brand launched a successful campaign for Hydro Boost that paired cultural relevancy with scientific credibility. The campaign featured Tate McRae, someone who epitomizes confidence and creativity, alongside Dr. Muneeb Shah, who has 19M followers across TikTok and Instagram. This pairing bridged the gap between beauty and science, creating a powerful message for the next generation.
And our collaboration with Dr. Shah goes beyond creative marketing for a single campaign. Last year, we announced our collaboration with Dr. Shah and Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, as Neutrogena Global
Innovation Partners, where they will work with us to build a proactive and engaged community of consumers and influencers.
DSN: As a derm-backed brand in mass retail, how do Neutrogena and Aveeno continue to innovate in this space?
AS: We pride ourselves on our clinical efficacy because we know it builds trust and loyalty. But we don’t just leverage science for science’s sake. We put consumer-insights at the core of what we do—and strengthen the connection between insights, R&D and operations to deliver more meaningful innovations. A great example of this is on Neutrogena. We tackled two key barriers to daily SPF use: white cast and heaviness. Our latest product, Ultra Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF 70, delivers a lightweight, invisible finish—backed by our science. Then, to make it relevant, we partnered with John Cena who, like the sunscreen, is known for being invisible; he also shared his personal skin cancer journey to elevate the importance of daily sunscreen use.
DSN: How are you approaching TikTok and other social platforms to connect with beauty consumers?
“Nearly two-thirds of consumers (62%) trust their primary care or other healthcare providers when seeking information about routines.
”
AS: Authentic storytelling is the key to impactful content on platforms like TikTok. To drive authenticity, we choose creators and partners who are fans of our brands. Tate McRae has trusted Neutrogena since she was young and Hailee Steinfeld, who supports the Neutrogena Collagen Bank line, has used the brand since she was a teen. This combined with the trust they have with their communities drives engagement and strong partnership.
Then, we’re making shopping seamless by leveraging social commerce tools such as TikTok’s live streaming and in-app shop to ensure we’re meeting our consumers where they are. As an example, we were live selling on TikTok Shop during Tate’s album release concert. dsn
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Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen
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Meeting Menopause
More products, more conversation, more normal
By Amanda Baltazar
In the United States, 75 million women are in perimenopause or menopause.
According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, the most common symptoms of menopause are hot flashes (suffered by up to 80% of women); vaginal dryness (47%); sleep problems (46%); sexual dysfunction; urinary problems; and depression. In some women, hot flashes can last for a decade or more.
All of that’s to say that many mid-life women need help.
Earlier this year Good Clean Love rebranded its Changing Phases collection. It brought more dark green into the packaging “to give a clinical feel,” said Mary Jo Rivzi, vice president of sales, and a stylish green wave “to indicate the changing phases of a woman.”
The company also wanted to be overt in the products’ names and the icons on the packaging to show women the benefits of using them. “You have to think about how much time do women have in the aisle to read things,” she said. The line includes Rebalance, Restore and Relief, all for vaginal health.
In 2024, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories acquired the MenoLabs portfolio, which includes a range of products—prebiotics and probiotics—to address menopause and perimenopause
problems. The portfolio includes supplements and a health tracker app, which provides information on, and education about, menopause.
Sureepoul Pattumma, brand manager, women’s wellness brands with Dr. Reddy’s, is excited about the products because “we’ve really made strides to improve the science and validate the claims we make behind the products.”
Bonafide Health offers a vaginal suppository for internal moisturizing and products for sexual satisfaction, mood support and hot flashes.
Around 80% of Bonafide’s customers subscribe to receive their products since they work best in the long term, and around 30% buy more than one item. Women also can create their own bundles to meet their needs. “It’s not a one-sizefits-all,” said Kate Jamieson, vice president of marketing and e-commerce.
From OrganiCare comes a line of products aimed at women with urinary/bladder issues, which often flare up during menopause and perimenopause. They all have different uses but all three could be used by the same woman, said CEO Caroline Goodner.
There are so many changes happening to a woman’s body during these menopause years, she added, “so strengthening the bladder and urinary tract is important.”
OrganiCare also offers two products to help with yeast infections, which can be a big issue for women in these years. “As estrogen levels drop, the imbalance begins, and tissue thins,” said Janet Carter Smith, vice president of sales.
The products appeal to women because they’re a natural alternative to anti-fungals and antibiotics, said Goodner, and can clear up in just two days. “We’ve found women don’t want to take things day after day after day.”
At Retail
Good Clean Love launched Changing Phases in Walmart’s new women’s intimate health section this spring. “We made sure these products were like nothing carried in this set,” said Rivzi. Its products are also in Walgreens and CVS—expanding in the latter this summer—as well as grocery stores like Albertson’s. However, Amazon continues to be where most of the company’s products are sold, Rivzi pointed out.
Products from the MenoLabs portfolio are sold at Walmart and Amazon and on the MenoLabs website.
“Long-term we want to be really strategic with retailers,” said Pattumma. “Within the menopause category, there’s a lot of interest in building that out with retailers but figuring out where to find the consumer is more of a journey.” So far, e-commerce is proving to be the most popular purchase spot.
A huge advantage of selling online is you can provide a lot of information about these products, which are not well understood. But it’s important to back up that information, Pattumma said, with touchpoints like a newsletter, email and social media.
Bonafide also mostly sells its products via its website and Amazon but would like to expand into retail. The difficulty, said Jamieson, is where to put them—with
“Women spend 40% of their lives in this menopause and postmenopause stage so it’s important to have a positive outlook”
— Sureepoul Pattumma, brand manager, women’s wellness brands, Dr. Reddy’s
women’s health, reproductive health or intimate health, for example. On the plus side, she pointed out, “retailers are starting to wonder how can they create a women’s health destination and how do they really
create a category around this.”
In the meantime, Bonafide provides as much information as possible on its Amazon page, because a lot of consumers use that site to search. “We try to optimize that for
FemiClear Products OrganiCare
Women’s Health Supplements Bonafide
Probiotic Supplement MenoLabs
someone who’s exploring or looking for a specific solution,” Jamieson said.
OrganiCare’s products are available broadly across the United States in major and mid-tier retailers, with only about 25% of sales coming from online. “Our retail growth tells a clear story: there’s a surging consumer demand for natural,” said Carter Smith.
Clear Communication
Good Clean Love is hoping talk of menopause will become less censored and with its rebrand, “we wanted to be clear about what each product does,” Rivzi said. “This is a natural thing that happens, and we should be celebrating it.”
Retailers are not sure where to place perimenopausal and menopause products, which can make it difficult for women to find them. To make it easier, the company features shopalongs on its social media, showing its founder going into a store and finding the product.
Women’s Health
Menopause
Other stages
“We are seeing an increase in women’s awareness, but we’re still seeing the same level of confusion, what should they be doing, who should they talk to, and they still struggle to find solutions”
— Kate Jamieson, vice president of marketing and e-commerce, Bonafide
On social media the company also shares content about vaginal health, product usage, benefits and education in simple, snackable content bites.
Education is very important to MenoLabs. Its newsletter and Instagram posts “get a lot of engagement because we’re talking about midlife as a whole lifestyle thing,” Pattumma said. “Women spend 40% of their lives in this menopause and postmenopause stage so it’s important to have a positive outlook.”
The brand hosts MenoLabs Live on Instagram Live every month to discuss different educational, symptom or lifestyle topics. “Users interact live and can ask questions or engage with each other,” said Pattumma. MenoLabs then reposts the entire live sessions on YouTube and posts short clips after the show. “It’s been a great way to connect with existing community and it helps bring more awareness generally to the topic,” she said.
The best marketing tactic for Bonafide is “white coat content,” says Jamieson— having doctor partners talk about the products. “They have that credibility backing.”
For the past five years Bonafide has run a state of menopause survey.
“We are seeing an increase in women’s awareness, but we’re still seeing the same level of confusion, what should they be doing, who should they talk to, and they still struggle to find solutions,” Jamieson said.“ We are here to provide education and have a whole section on our website to help women connect the dots for themselves.”
Bonafide works closely with doctors, she said, to educate consumers and to let them know there are hormone-free products out there.
Doctors don’t get a lot of training on menopause, she added, “so many women feel dismissed.” dsn
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2025 NACDS TSE Product Showcase
Here are some of the products that attendees will see at this year’s TSE
By Nora Caley
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores calls its Total Store Expo the biggest, most productive drug, food and mass market event of the year. Here are some of the products that exhibitors will show at this year’s event in San Diego.
Amneal Pharmaceuticals
Booth #2611
Earlier this year, Amneal Pharmaceuticals launched GLP-1 agonist exenatide injection in 1.2 mL and 2.4 mL prefilled pens. An AP-rated generic equivalent for the discontinued brand Byetta, it is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Both the 5 mcg (1.2 mL) and 10 mcg (2.4 mL) pens deliver 60 subcutaneous doses.
Anda, Inc.
Booth #1118
Anda is a pharmaceutical distributor utilized by pharmacies nationwide. The company provides distribution to pharmacies of all sizes. Anda said it delivers real savings, consistent access to generics and reliable service that puts the pharmacy first. The company offers flexible pricing and smarter ordering tools.
Apothecary Products, LLC
Booth #1707
Apothecary Products has launched Hear Hush Hoops, earplugs designed for maximum comfort. Shaped like wireless earbuds, they are made of silicone and come with four tip sizes for a customizable fit. Unlike fully closed-ring designs, their open-ring structure lets them mold naturally to the ears. The products hush the noise while ensuring the user still hears every moment.
Boiron Inc.
Booth #129
The teething solution Camilia Bedtime from Boiron offers relief from nighttime teething discomfort with a twist-and-squeeze liquid dose. The plant-based, homeopathic medicine helps ease restlessness, gum pain, irritability and minor digestive upsets associated with teething at night in babies and toddlers.* The pre-measured liquid doses are mess-free and require no rubbing on gums. Free of benzocaine, preservatives, dyes, flavors and sugar, it’s made with chamomile and other non-GMO plant-based ingredients.
*Claims are based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
Camber Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Booth #1229
Camber Pharmaceuticals announced the launch of eltrombopag, the AB-rated generic for Promacta, available in both oral suspension and tablets. Through Camber’s copayment program, eligible patients may pay as little as $0 out of pocket. Eltrombopag is indicated for thrombocytopenia—a serious condition affecting platelet counts—and aplastic anemia, which impacts the production of new blood cells.
The Compliance Team, Inc.
Booth #2014
Integrated Care Accreditation from The Compliance Team is for pharmacies practicing a holistic, integrated approach to healthcare. The program brings together pharmacists, nurses, practitioners and other healthcare providers to deliver seamless, patient-centered care. Integrated Care Accreditation helps pharmacies coordinate with the broader healthcare team, to address every aspect of a patient’s well-being—from medications and chronic conditions to lifestyle and preventive care.
CoverMyMeds
Booth #101
CoverMyMeds helps pharmacies operate more efficiently with technology that streamlines workflows—like ePA, automated claims processing, prescription automation and affordability tools. The solutions help free up pharmacists’ time to focus on patients, not paperwork. With strong implementation support and a patient-first mindset, CoverMyMeds can help pharmacies deliver better outcomes and long-term success.
Providing Quality Medicines Since 1932
For almost a century, Boiron has provided families with the purest medicines made from the earth’s best resources. From our renowned Arnicare® line, to trusted Oscillococcinum® and Camilia® brands, our expanding range meets the diverse needs of your customers.
*CLAIMS BASED ON TRADITIONAL HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE, NOT ACCEPTED MEDICAL EVIDENCE. NOT FDA EVALUATED.
Eagle Labs, Inc.
Booth #1741
Eagle Labs will showcase its contract-manufacturing capabilities, highlighting NSF-certified production of dietary supplements, OTCs, skin care, beauty products and sports nutrition. The company offers formats like capsules, tablets, gummies, powders, liquids, lotions, creams and chewables, and packaging that includes bottles, tubes, jars, pumps, stick packs and tinctures. With full-service options from formulation to filling, Eagle Labs emphasizes quality, scalability and turnkey solutions for brands looking to develop or expand consumer health and wellness lines.
Embecta
Booth #641
The Nano 2nd Gen is a contoured base pen needle that helps to compensate for too much injection force, a common challenge for patients injecting insulin. Nano 2nd Gen Pen Needles are estimated to reduce intramuscular injection risk by two to eight times versus 4mm posted base pen needles. Intramuscular injections may lead to increased pain and greater risk of hypoglycemia, according to published studies.
EnlivenHealth, A Division of Omnicell
Booth #2019
EnlivenHealth offers Pharmacy Outcomes and Experience Management solutions that bring together pharmacy patient engagement, clinical, adherence and financial workflows into a unified experience. By connecting siloed and fragmented pharmacy operations, EnlivenHealth’s e360 transforms pharmacy insights into actionable outcomes, automates routine tasks and enables pharmacists to practice at the top of their license while improving patient-activated and pharmacy-led healthcare.
Haleon
Booth #818
Theraflu Severe Congestion Relief Nasal Mist provides fast-acting and long-lasting relief from severe nasal congestion. The mist is formulated with oxymetazoline HCl, it effectively reduces swelling in nasal passages, providing up to 12 hours of relief. The product’s new bottle design incorporates a 50% shorter nozzle and a one-thumb button that delivers a precise and controlled dose of ultra-fine mist, making it comfortable and easy to use, per the company.
HTL-Strefa Inc.
Booth #707
HTL-Strefa will showcase the latest category innovation used for administering safe immunizations, DropSafe Sicura passive safety needle. Sicura equips immunizers with a fully automatic safety mechanism designed to eliminate needlestick injuries, and has been used to deliver millions of safe injections in pharmacies across North America.
iA
Booth #2823
Offering centralized pharmacy fulfillment, iA will feature its integrated platform, which includes advanced robotics and the NEXiA Enterprise Software Suite. These solutions are designed to optimize workflow, increase efficiency and empower pharmacists to spend more time providing direct patient care. New additions to the solution include the Smart SecurePack–Multi and Smart Unit of Use products, which both increase the automation capabilities.
Idea Village Products Corp.
Booth #129
The daily supplement system Replenza was developed to support individuals using GLP-1 systems. Replenza has a targeted blend of nutrients, fiber and amino acids to support digestive health, muscle tone and skin elasticity. NSF Certified for quality and safety, Replenza creates an incremental growth opportunity in a fastgrowing consumer segment. The powder and vitamin formats serve as a helpful resource for pharmacists engaging with GLP-1 users, offering a simple way to support energy, nourishment and overall wellness, the brand said.
i-Health Inc., A Division of DSM
Booth #509
The company’s Daily Menopause Support + Vitamin D is designed to help with hot flash and night sweat relief plus Vitamin D to support bone health.* Menopause can bring a mix of physical and emotional changes, and i-Health’s new AZO Menopause Relief Line can help, the brand said. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
• No Insurance Hassles: A cash-only, over-the-counter (OTC) pen needle—no need to worry about coverage or reimbursement.
• Surprisingly Affordable: Low MSRP, perfect for high-copay, high deductible patients
• Trusted & Reliable.
• Available in 100ct and 50ct configurations to fit your needs.
Kiss Products, Inc.
Booth #1943
The Kiss Colors & Care Healthy Hair Fixation Trio is a targeted three-step oil regimen designed to promote a healthy scalp and stronger hair. It includes Scalp Fixer, a tension-relieving serum; Spot Fixer, a biotin and caffeine-infused treatment for thinning areas; and Hair Fixer, a daily blend of USDA-certified organic oils for deep moisture and nourishment.
Knapp Inc.
Booth #3531
The Knapp 5th Generation Automated Tablet Dispenser is a solution for Central Fill Pharmacies, delivering accuracy and reliability in tablet and capsule dispensing, the brand said. Designed to handle even dusty and translucent medications, it features advanced counting technology, inline calibration and easy-access cleaning for optimal performance. This system offers seamless integration and long-term value for top retailers and healthcare providers across North America.
Mason Vitamins Inc.
Booth #1012
Berberine Complex with Ceylon Cinnamon and BioPerine is designed to support healthy glucose and cholesterol levels, cardiovascular function, gut microbiota and more, with BioPerine to promote bioavailability and absorption of nutrients for optimal benefits. The blend works to help balance blood sugar, relieve oxidative stress and promote a healthy inflammation response. The formulation supports daily wellness, energy levels and overall health, the company said.
Nature’s Way Brands
Booth #737
The newest form of Nature’s Way Sambucus is Ultra Immune Juicy Bursts. The soft chews have a fast-absorbing liquid center and are formulated with vitamins C, D3, zinc and 64X concentrated elderberry extract. They’re individually wrapped so they can be taken any time, the brand said.
Nestlé Health Science
Booth #115
Vital Proteins Collagen & Protein Shake features all the benefits of Vital Proteins collagen, now in a protein shake. The chocolate flavored ready-to-drink shake contains 30g of total protein per serving. The company said the shake is an excellent source of protein to help fuel wellness goals and features 10g g of collagen peptides to support hair, skin, nail, bone and joint health. It contains 0g added sugar, no carrageenan, artificial sweeteners, colors or flavors.
Pharmavite
Booth #1729
Made with clinically studied probiotic lactospore and prebiotic fiber, Nature Made Probiotic + Prebiotic Fiber Gummies support gut health by adding good bacteria to the digestive tract, nourishing good gut bacteria and helping relieve occasional gas, bloating, burping and abdominal discomfort.* The Probiotic + Prebiotic Fiber Gummies are pectin-based, gluten-free and come in mixed berry flavor.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Piping Rock Health Products
Booth # 2119
Piping Rock Health Products said its Renew Life has built its reputation on quality probiotic strains, premium ingredients and targeted formulas that meet the needs of today’s health-conscious consumers. Renew Life provides broad-spectrum support for gut and immune health and is a complete partner in digestive care.* *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Quest Products
Booth #1928
Quest Products launched Doctor Butler’s in retail to add to its growing portfolio in the Digestive Health category. Developed by a proctologist, Doctor Butler’s features a full range of products for anorectal care. The Hemorrhoid and Fissure formulas balance effective medication with soothing plant extracts without the use of harsh irritants and chemical preservatives. It’s FDA approved and Leaping Bunny Certified.
ScriptPro
Booth #3923
ScriptPro provides operational, financial and clinical solutions backed by 30 years of pharmacy innovation. The full-size and compact robots deliver dependable, direct-to-vial dispensing that prevents cross-contamination. Available in six sizes to fit a range of volumes and pharmacy layouts, they automate up to 75% of prescriptions and operate quietly. By streamlining workflows and reducing bottlenecks, ScriptPro robots help maintain consistent operations and free staff for higher-value services.
Trividia Health
Booth #1635
With manufacturing facilities in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Trividia Health claimed it is the largest U.S. manufacturer of store brand products for people with diabetes. The company said it has delivered solutions for the past 40 years, and offers a full portfolio of products for wellness, including blood glucose monitoring, sharps, nutrition, ketone testing and home A1C testing. Trividia Health has comprehensive national coverage, True Ways to Save co-pay savings program and OTC cash options.
TruLabs LLC
Booth #1429
Two new TruLabs Hydrate flavors are Citrus Splash and Orange Twist. The drink packets contain 1,422 mg of electrolytes, 19 vitamins and minerals and six B vitamins. The blends are stevia-free and are sweetened with monk fruit extract and Reb M. TruLabs Hydrate is sugar-free, refreshing and crafted to keep the user going, whether they’re tackling a workout or a to-do list, the company said.
XiFin
Booth #2511
XiFin Empower RCM offers a solution that’s purpose-built for pharmacies. This technology, embedded with AI, provides an end-to-end accounts receivable process for medical billing that includes real-time eligibility and benefits verification, denials management and business intelligence—initiated within the pharmacy workflow using the NCPDP pathway or a clinical pathway. With XiFin, pharmacies can expect to experience improved operational efficiencies, reduced denials and maximized reimbursements, the company said.
Xtreme Beauty International/Okay Pure Naturals
Booth #1629
Okay Pure Naturals Natural Turmeric Soap is a blend of tradition and modern skincare, the company said. The bar contains turmeric root extract, coconut oil and aloe vera to cleanse while targeting dark spots and uneven tone. Rich in antioxidants and naturally soothing, it supports clearer, more radiant skin with every use, the company claimed. The formula is designed for both face and body and delivers a smooth lather and a fresh, clean finish without harsh additives, the company said. dsn
Fueling Omni in Pharmacies
Unified data can unlock a stronger consumer connection in pharmacies
By Lori Schafer
To adapt, retailers can deploy connected retail analytics systems with AI and GenAI capabilities to personalize and improve the omnichannel experien ce.”
Pharmacies offer immense value to consumers. Prescriptions, health and wellness items, beauty, grocery, toilet paper, toys and more all pack a punch in a small footprint. Yet, as pharmacies look to evolve—creating more traffic-driving in-store experiences and growing pickup and delivery options—there’s more retailers can do to elevate the consumer experience by optimizing their retail analytics and data management.
The drug channel is complex, meeting diverse needs while adapting to omnichannel shopping. This hasn’t been easy. Many drug retailers, facing waning foot traffic and tighter margins, are closing stores. Walgreens plans to shutter 1,200 stores, CVS is reducing locations and Rite Aid is emerging from bankruptcy. Naturally, the channel will look for ways to evolve. To adapt, retailers can deploy connected retail analytics systems with AI and GenAI capabilities to personalize and improve the omnichannel experience.
To achieve a cohesive shopping experience, one barrier that some drug chains wrestle with is that they operate in silos. Some teams even use different analytics tools, leading to inaccuracies in pricing, promotions and inventory. Retailers need
unified data management—a single source of truth for all teams. Retail analytics and automated insights can power real-time decisions on pricing, assortments, merchandising, markdowns, orders and pharmacy operations. A unified data foundation can unlock a range of innovations, including:
• New item introductions — When rolling out a new OTC drug, a chain can accelerate product onboarding with GenAI, using the technology to create product attribution, copy and images, shortening the new product information lifecycle from weeks to minutes.
• Enhanced personalization — Assisting a drug retailer’s marketing team, unified data and GenAI can craft tailored digital ads for loyal shoppers, reflecting regional, seasonal or event-specific preferences.
• Localization — To increase loyalty with drug shoppers, language customization and optimized product assortments enable pharmacies to tailor shelves and shopping experiences to regional needs.
Combine these innovations, and consumers will go on a localized and relevant
shopping journey. For example, a shopper might receive a personalized ad in their preferred language, featuring a promotion for a newly launched skin care lotion that’s selling well in their region, and ensuring it’s in stock online or in-store.
Unified data and retail analytics uncover a more connected retail experience for drug store shoppers. Data that is harnessed and flowing together enables innovations like GenAI to streamline workflows, enhance online product pages, automate marketing content and personalize offerings.
This better way of working can build more loyalty and revitalize pharmacies. By optimizing back-end systems, retailers can maintain their convenience and become more relevant and meet the evolving demands of consumers. dsn
Lori Schafer is chief executive officer of Digital Wave Technology.
• Advanced hydration
• Includes Hyaluronic Acid †
• Enriched with the antioxidant Trehalose †
• Includes Flaxseed Oil † containing omega-3s • Enriched with antioxidants †
