The Inspiration
As often is the case, two seemingly random thoughts came together to create a new idea.
I was in Walgreens pharmacy on the busy Myrtle Ave in Brooklyn recently. As I was leaving, I noted the sign above the door, “Wishing you a happy and healthy day” It trilled.
As I looked down from the sign to the counter, I saw row upon row of cigarettes for sale. In a pharmacy! Regardless of your thoughts on smoking, we can pretty much agree they are not healthy.
“How hypocritical and possibly incongruent to the brand values” I mused.
This led to me thinking about how I would support the ‘Have a healthy day” message. My mind went back to Las Vegas. I’ve only been once and that was to body paint 52 strippers to resemble playing cards (don't ask). I’d never gambled before so I had a go at the slots. Some 4 hours later I’m still sat there feeling oddly alive and happy. It wasn't just the free beers, it was the oxygen they pump into the room periodically to keep everyone perked-up and playing.
Mind you, a trip to the country side would have been a better way to remind myself that “clean oxygen makes you feel great!” Still, the ends justify the means…
Now, back to Walgreens…
The Idea
Turn every Walgreens into an “oxygen bar.”
Pump clean, pure oxygen into the stores particularly during morning and evening rush hour when the traffic outside is heavy.
Shoppers will feel good. And the store will actually make people have a healthful day, just by simply being in the store!
Not only is this good for the customers and staff, it will create oodles of earned and social media as well as support it’s presumed brand values (dumping the smokes would help too).
Plus, physical retail spaces need a more compelling reason to get customers in beyond “selling stuff you can get on the internet cheaper and faster.” Clean Air Shopping could be compelling enough to attract the people into the store.
