In the past, Target used to keep its retail locations open on Thanksgiving to kick off early Black Friday sales. This decision didn’t sit well with the employees, who had to work on a holiday and manage the rush of eager shoppers. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Target had to change its approach, closing its doors on Thanksgiving and extending its sales period instead.
This temporary adjustment turned out to be a success for Target, with a significant 8.2% increase in holiday sales. Additionally, it allowed employees to enjoy Thanksgiving and reduced the chaotic Black Friday crowds. As a result, Target has announced its decision to make this closure on Thanksgiving a permanent policy.
Target’s CEO Brian Cornell emphasized, “What began as a response to the pandemic is now our new norm, acknowledging our ability to meet our customers’ holiday needs both during and outside regular store hours.”
Target will keep its stores closed on Thanksgiving Day, permanently ending a tradition of opening its doors early for Black Friday shoppers. The move follows a shift last year, when retailers extended holiday sales to limit the number of people in stores. https://t.co/oEoYWMFlBS
— The Associated Press (@AP) November 22, 2021
On Thanksgiving Day, physical Target stores will be completely shut, with only a minimal staff presence at distribution and call centers. Meanwhile, Target has already launched its Black Friday sales ad, running until November 27. This extended sale period gives customers the flexibility to shop in-store at their convenience or opt for online shopping, thereby managing crowd levels amidst ongoing concerns about COVID-19.
