During the recession, private-label products enjoyed increasing popularity as consumers looked for new ways to save on everyday purchases during the economic downturn. In fact, U.S. consumers spent $120 billion on private-label products during the past year, marking a year-over-year increase of 2.1 percent, according to Chicago-based Information Resources Inc. (IRI). However, this growth now seems to be leveling off, and this small uptick was largely driven by price increases, it reports.

With more than 2,500 different paths to purchase, it’s no surprise that consumers are changing how they shop, where they shop and when they shop.

A trip to the drug store is no longer just an opportunity to refill a prescription or restock the family first aid kit. Today’s retailers are instituting different programs to provide shoppers with a more value-added experience, experts note.

For cold and flu season, allergy season and everything in between, drug stores provide consumers with the advice and relief they need for their ailments.