Greencastle CVS honored for 'outstanding customer service'
In a time when "mom and pop" pharmacies are nearly extinct, a new breed of drug store is taking over.
CVS Pharmacy in Greencastle prides itself on the customer service given to each patron who walks through the doors. For the second year in a row, the pharmacy has been awarded a certificate for Outstanding Customer Service.
"We like getting that one," remarked store manager Russ Beamer.
Beamer has been the store manager for the last 14 years. He may have been presented the award, but gives credit to his entire crew. The store beat out 22 other CVS Pharmacies in the district to earn outstanding customer service status.
Sandy Albright, the lead pharmacist, said this certificate is "what sets us apart -- we hope -- from big box stores. We are a hometown pharmacy."
Their efforts are not futile. This year the store earned highest prescription volume in the district, which includes stores in Sullivan, Terre Haute, Danville, Vincennes and French Lick, just to name a few.
Albright and Beamer agreed customer service is taken seriously in their store. So do the other employees.
"I have learned a lot from (Beamer) myself," commented Melissa Frazier, who has been with the company for three years.
She also referred to Beamer's "great attitude with the customers." Frazier gave him praise for "really turning the place around."
Being a drug store, the CVS team meets customers at their worse, when they are sick and in need of a remedy.
Albright said she tells her pharmacists and technicians to "treat customers as they would want their mother to be treated."
Aside from its customer service, CVS gives back the community. It donates to the Giving Tree at Christmas time; and holds special customer appreciation days with free hot dogs to anyone who walks through the doors.
"We try to connect with our patients and work to build a relationship with them," noted Albright.
CVS can also pride itself on employee loyalty.
Cletus McManama, lead technician, will be retiring following 41 years of service with CVS. Albright has been with the company for 28 years with 10 of those years in Greencastle.
After 14 years as the store manager, Beamer said he still enjoys coming to work each day.
"It's the best company to work for," he said.
The store has 14 technicians, three pharmacists and eight employees to serve its customers.
"We appreciate everyone who shops here," added Beamer.