Giant Food expands its loyalty program to pharmacy department

Giant Food is expanding its Giant Flexible Rewards loyalty program to offer rewards in the pharmacy department, the regional supermarket announced on Tuesday.

The Landover, Maryland-based grocery retailer said shoppers will now be able to earn points through qualifying pharmacy transactions.

"We are very happy to be able to offer a reward program that will benefit the patients in the communities we serve," said Paul Zvaleny, director of pharmacy operations at Giant Food, in a statement. "Providing access to quality healthcare and addressing healthcare equity are Giant Pharmacy's main goals, with the addition of the Flexible Rewards program this is a win for everyone."

The update makes Giant Food the "first grocery retailer in the region to offer this level of valuable digital rewards for pharmacy transactions," the regional supermarket said in a statement.

Program members will earn 100 Flexible Rewards points on every transaction that includes any eligible new prescription, prescription transfer, prescription refill and immunizations at a Giant Pharmacy. Points can be redeemed for grocery savings, gas savings and special rewards on popular products like milk, eggs, bottled water and meat.

"We're thrilled to now offer our pharmacy customers opportunities to earn and save with the Flexible Rewards program," said Ryan Draude, director of loyalty at Giant Food, in a statement. "By picking up a prescription refill or visiting the pharmacy for regular immunizations, customers can earn points simply and conveniently and make their Giant a one-stop shop for rewards.”

Earlier this week, the Ahold Delhaize banner announced plans to dial back its e-commerce operations. The grocery retailer is shutting down two e-commerce fulfillment centers as it prepares to launch a new delivery model using in-store employees.

Giant Food’s fulfillment center in Manassas, Virginia, will remain open while centers in Hanover, Maryland, and Millford, Delaware, will shutter. 

The move is designed to "meet the changing needs of our customers for faster delivery, more delivery timeslots and a broader assortment," the grocer said in a statement.

Giant Food was founded in 1936 and operates over 160 supermarkets in Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and Washington, D.C.