Shopko’s ‘I-think-I-can’ attitude pays off


Shopko’s story is sort of like a retailing version of “The Little Engine that Could.” Among mass merchandise retailers, it’s one of the smaller and less well-known chains, but that hasn’t stopped it from making its mark, particularly in new health-and-wellness and pharmacy initiatives.


For example, the company’s purchase of Health One’s Uvanta pharmacy division gives it an advantage in serving long-term care and nursing facilities for seniors. Meanwhile, it has made headway in smaller, rural markets with Shopko Hometown stores. These include the new 36,000-sq.-ft. store in Seymour, Wis., which offers pharmacy services and a full eye-care center. The company plans to open eight more of the small-format stores in summer and fall of this year. Shopko also offers flu shots at all its pharmacies and has 19 in-store Fast Care clinics.


The company has made improvements in other areas as well. In March, it announced a revamping of its e-commerce site, featuring improved design and compatibility with traditional computers, laptops, tablets and mobile devices.