TO CLOSE

The move cost CVS about $ 135 million as "store rationalization expense" in its first quarter results report.
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Your local CVS store may not be closing, as the 46 underperforming sites announced by the retailer are closing.

But that will probably change.

As the pharmacy chain goes through the turmoil in the retail and healthcare sectors, CVS Pharmacy stores are about to get a makeover.

Amazon continues to disrupt traditional retailers and is poised to start potentially selling prescription drugs, providing a digital alternative to traditional pharmacies.

With around 9,600 sites, CVS tries to stay ahead of the pack.

CVS Health released first-quarter financial results better than expected before market opening on Wednesday. (Photo: Juanmonino / Getty Images)

You may not notice much at first, but several changes are in progress:

1. More health care, less retail

With the decline in retail sales, CVS move more floor space. The company's MinuteClinics have set the trend by offering basic medical care.

But CEO Larry Merlo recently told USA TODAY that it was time for the chain to move on to the next step. To learn more about CVS's orientation, check out the concept store that the company recently revealed, called HealthHUB.

2. More delivery

CVS has increased its investments in prescription drug delivery, with the goal of retaining customers who might otherwise choose more practical alternatives.

In April, the company announced a same-day delivery service with Shipt at 6,000 of its sites. Last year, the company set up a delivery service the next day.

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3. Dental Straightening Services

CVS announced in April that it would add SmileDirectClub stores to "hundreds" of stores.

Customers can learn more about SmileDirectClub's removable clear plastic aligners, which straighten teeth over the months.

4. Fewer greeting cards

While CVS is devoting more space to health care, something must go away. Asked what CVS may have to abandon, CVS pharmacy president Kevin Hourican recently told USA TODAY that the company has decided to spend too much space on greeting cards.

In the end, traditional greeting card sales are struggling to develop, which could be a good idea.

Follow USA TODAY reporter Nathan Bomey on Twitter @NathanBomey.

Read or share this story: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/05/03/cvs-store-closures-cvs-health-future/3661846002/