First Look: Target’s New Stores

Target has opened 30 new locations this year as part of a multi-year remodeling and opening strategy, and while it’s placing associate and shopper safety at the forefront, it’s not letting a little pandemic strip away all of their personalities.

The retailer, which has seen its digital sales skyrocket thanks to its keen use of in-store fulfillment, is making pandemic-era safety measures like hand sanitizer stations, social distancing signage and Plexiglas checkout shields standard fare throughout the stores.

But it’s also incorporating local artists to create murals and installing massive replicas of its Bullseye the Dog mascot to connect with the community.

Where logical, parking lots feature dedicated Order Pickup and Drive Up spots for its contactless fulfillment options.

The company adjusted its store opening plans at the start of the pandemic in order to manage the all of the changes to its store operations. It had originally planned to open 36 new stores this year, but then slowed down some plans during the height of the retail shutdown.  

As it approaches the holiday season, the retailer is focused on providing safe and seamless shopping experiences for customers who may be uneasy about entering stores. 

Among the new stores include the retailer’s first small-format store located on a college campus is the Target University of California-San Diego location (shown above).

“It’s not just about creating a fun place to shop,” Target notes in a company blog. “From the assortment to the architecture to the team members themselves, each Target store strives to reflect and connect with the community it calls home.”

Target, which is the No. 8 retailer on the this year’s RIS News Top 100 Retailers ranking, has said it typically sees a 2-4% sales lift after a remodel.

The L.A. Sunset Boulevard store (shown above) is a traditionally-sized Target with floor-to-ceiling windows — this lets shoppers see the Hollywood sign and the L.A. Observatory while perusing the aisles.

The store also features two exterior patio seating areas where shoppers can purchase coffee.

Credit for all photos: AP Images for Target