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CHARLOTTE, N.c.–In a video posted online, the CEO of CVS drug stores says his chain will stop selling cigarettes and other tobacco products, making it harder for some local smokers near one location in Plaza Midwood. “It’s convenient for you to head out your door, get your smokes, and head back home,” said Rock Hill resident Shariff Bishop.
Yet the support was swift from the White House. A “Thank You” tweet from First Lady Michelle Obama and this statement from President Obama: “Today’s decision will help advance my Administration’s efforts to reduce tobacco-related deaths…”
CVS says ending tobacco sales could cost the chain $2 billion each year in sales. A hit that could impact the tobacco industry in North Carolina. It accounts for 15 percent of all crops grown in the state. “The tobacco industry is really big here. I don’t think it’s gonna stay and play,” said Bishop.
Walgreens and Rite Aid are trying to figure out if they will follow CVS. Charlotte-based discounter Family Dollar says it has no plans to stop selling tobacco products. All this comes as the Food and Drug Administration has launched a new campaign to show teens “The Real Cost” of smoking.
“We recognize that in 50 years we have come a long way, but not nearly enough, not nearly enough to divert the population from starting smoking, starting tobacco related products,” said Navy Surgeon General Matthew Nathan.
Tobacco sales are scheduled to end October first at all CVS drug stores nationwide.
