Are CVS’ Anti-Smoking Efforts Impacting Cigarette Purchases?

September 10, 2015
CSD Staff

Research shows a decrease in cigarette smoking after CVS stops selling tobacco products.
In an attempt to decrease impulse cigarette purchases and to promote public health, one year ago, CVS decided to stop selling tobacco in its stores, nationwide. Despite the belief that this move would have little impact upon cigarette sales, a recent study has shown a change in the market since CVS stores made the change.
According to a report by the Daily Record, the study, which was conducted by CVS’ Health Research Institute, revealed that approximately 95 million fewer packs of cigarettes were sold in the eight months after CVS stopped selling tobacco products. That means that, individually, smokers purchased five fewer packs of cigarettes in those eight months, resulting in a 1% decrease in the total number of packs sold.
Additionally, the study revealed a 4% increase in nicotine patch purchases in the 13 states where CVS stores are located. It is believed that this data indicates an increase in attempts to quit smoking.
CVS is committed to its anti-smoking efforts, and the company recently announced that it will be funding a new tobacco-prevention curriculum through Scholastic.