We mentioned in an April story that the Castro Walgreens, located at 18th and Castro, was in the process of undergoing some significant interior renovations. We checked back yesterday to find that the majority of renovations are completed, with only a few minor tasks remaining.
"We're in the final steps," said manager Wendy Zhu. "There is some additional painting, work around the windows, new signage, and reshuffling of products that were moved during the renovation."
One of the biggest changes to the layout is the expanded pharmacy at the western end of the store. "The waiting area is much nicer now," Zhu explained. "We also made the consultation area more private." The previous wall that covered much of the pharmacy has been removed, creating a longer, open counter.
Shelving height has also been reduced to allow more visibility throughout the store, and the angled mirrors that once lined the upper walls have been removed. "Many of the renovations are to beautify and open up the store more," Zhu said.
But there appear to be more functional changes as well. For example, the refrigerated food and drink section has been expanded, occupying the area where the checkout counters used to be.
Those counters now line the southern wall of the store, where the electronics and photo center used to be located. The checkout queue starts away from the doors, near the pharmacy. With space for multiple clerks, the longer checkout counter is also intended to alleviate lines.
As for the photo center, it has been scaled back, but is still offered at the location.
Theft remains an issue, but the more open layout, an increased number of security cameras, and the presence of security guards appears to be helping.
"We really hope that customers enjoy the changes we've made," said Zhu. "The goal is to be more inviting and spacious."
