CVS

So here in Philly, I live within a block or two of multiple Rite-Aids and CVSes (hm, how does one pluralize CVS?). Before, I was of the opinion that all convenience stores are pretty much the same -- utilitarian, not that welcoming or comfortable, harsh lighting, scruffed floors, etc. But I've recently been very impressed by a new re-design CVS has introduced to its stores. They carpeted the floors, have self check-out lanes with computer kiosks, a very colorful, easy-to-read way of labeling aisles, and even a coupon kiosk where you swipe your CVS card and it prints out coupons for the things that you've bought most frequently. Everything is clean, well-lit, bright, and colorful. The first thing that comes to mind is that it reminds me alot of Target -- CVS's new shopping baskets are bright red, and the labels for each aisle's contents are bullseye-shaped. It actually reminds me a lot of convenience stores in Europe -- I think Americans have gotten used to cheap things automatically being unpleasant and not well maintained, which doesn't have to be the case. In sum, I am quite impressed by the new feel of CVS's stores, so much so that I went in there one day just needing bleach, and I came out with 2 bags full of stuff.