Target Takes Store Remodels To Next Level With Larger Format
Target is supersizing its store remodel strategy, now launching a series of larger-format stores that will feature nearly 150,000 square feet — 20,000 square feet more than the chain average. The company said the newer, more open layout — which it will be focusing on in the next few years — will allow Target to localize elements that “inspire and serve guests.”
What can Target shoppers expect? The new layout will include a larger assortment of merchandise — including expanded food and beverage, exclusive brand partnerships, and a curated mix of owned and national brands — supported by same-day and its stores-as-hubs fulfillment strategies. Backroom capacity will be increasing drastically, with fulfillment spaces five times larger than the previous store formats.
Among the brand’s goals is sustainability. Working toward achieving net zero emissions by 2040, Target’s new layout will include updates like national (CO2) refrigerants that lower emissions, as well as electric vehicle charging stations and rooftop solar.
[Read more: Target, Amazon Reveal Sustainable Store Models]
The investment will also support Target’s workforce, providing team members with more flexible rooms and furniture options. Other improvements include increased lighting with larger windows, natural design elements such as plants and regionally sourced reclaimed wood, and localized design elements.
Target expects to incorporate these design elements into more than half of its 200 full store remodels, starting in 2023. Starting in 2024, all new stores and remodels will have most of these features.
The first store to showcase the new layout is located just outside of Houston.
“Target’s stores are at the heart of how we deliver for our guests, whether they browse the aisles, shop online, or stop by for same-day services like order pickup and drive up,” said John Mulligan, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Target.
“Guests and team members tell us they come to Target because they feel inspired, connected, and welcomed,” added Mulligan. “With our reimagined store design and larger store footprint that better supports our same-day services, we can give guests more of what they love while incorporating features that build on our commitment to sustainability, community and helping all families discover the joy of everyday life.”
Target has undergone massive in-store transformations in the past several years. Just last month, the company announced it would be Target expanding its collaboration with Apple — more than tripling its Apple at Target locations after launching the partnership last year.
Target is also continuing to expand its partnership with Ulta. Announced in 2020, the collaboration has been steadily growing, and the company plans to invest in several hundred locations to add more Ulta shop-in-shops.
[Read more: Target Pivots After Disappointing Quarter, Nurtures Growth With Tech-Driven Fulfillment and Store Evolution]
Additionally, at the beginning of the year, Target revamped its curbside pickup, now allowing curbside returns as well as pickup for Starbucks orders. And to support its sustainability initiatives, the brand began labeling brands participating in its Zero Waste program so consumers could easily identify products that are recyclable and made without any single-use plastics.
