Retailers Partner on COVID-19 Testing

Retailers with parking lots are partnering with each other and with the government to assist with drive-through COVID-19 testing sites on their store properties.

Brian Dodge, president of the Retail Industry Leaders Association, issued the following statement following the White House announcement for plans to develop a web portal and drive-through sites for coronavirus testing in partnership with leading retailers:

"Leading retailers are doing everything they can to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. This includes stepping-up during this global health crisis to assist with drive-through COVID-19 testing sites on their store properties. Utilizing parking lots and partnering with the government to expedite testing is paramount right now as everyone works to ensure public health and safety. This is an unprecedented situation that demands an all hands-on deck approach, and community retailers are eager to do their part."

In partnership with Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, and others, Target said it is currently working with officials and task force partners to identify real estate that can serve as temporary testing locations. The retailer said it is continuing to finalize details, including specific timing and the duration that temporary testing locations will be made available, and will share up-to-date information soon.

CVS noted it expects testing will take place in secure areas of parking lots and individuals being tested will not have to leave their cars.

Walgreens said it will dedicate temporary space at select locations, outside of the stores such as in parking lots, where non-Walgreens health personnel will administer COVID-19 testing.

“These are extraordinary times that call for extraordinary measures, and Walgreens is honored to join the Administration, CMS, CDC and others in our industry to work together in providing access to government COVID-19 testing,” said Richard Ashworth, Walgreens president. “Collaboration with health officials, the government, and across our industry and other sectors is critical at this time. Walgreens has a long history of being there when our customers and communities needs us most. We’re continuing to work around the clock to support the health, safety and well-being of our customers, patients and team members.”