The retailer cites the post-pandemic landscape and workers' needs in making the decision to cut the practice for good.
For those wanting to shop after Thanksgiving dinner this year, a notable absence will be found in the retail lineup. Going forward, Target will no longer be open on Thanksgiving Day. The Associated Press announced Monday that the retailer would be suspending the practice permanently in recognition of the changes brought on by COVID-19 and the resulting needs of employees and customers alike. They are the first big-box store to make such a decision.
The store closed its doors last year out of precaution, a move that received positive feedback from wary shoppers and staff able to take a day off to be with loved ones.
“What started as a temporary measure driven by the pandemic is now our new standard — one that recognizes our ability to deliver on our guests’ holiday wishes both within and well beyond store hours,” Target CEO Brian Cornell wrote in a statement to employees. “You don’t have to wonder whether this is the last Thanksgiving you’ll spend with family and friends for a while, because Thanksgiving store hours are one thing we won’t ‘get back to’ when the pandemic finally subsides.”
The retailer began opening its doors on Turkey Day around 10 years ago, offering exclusive deals on tech gadgets and toys beginning after dinner time at 5 p.m. Stores like Best Buy Macy's, and Kohl's also joined the trend of opening a day ahead of Black Friday. But the pandemic has changed the retail landscape tremendously, with many opting for frequent sales spread throughout the season as opposed to a single shopping event. Add in the rise of online shopping, and many stores find less reason to keep physical locations open.
The National Retail Federation found profits during the 2020 shopping season went up 8.2% compared to years past, and is expected to exceed that number for 2021.
Select staff plan to work on the holiday, according to AP, who will receive holiday pay and are not located in the retail sector. As to whether Target will be open on Black Friday, shoppers can expect the same, with some perks. Target began its sales a week early starting on Sunday, November 21, that will run both online and in-store through Saturday, November 27. Physical stores will open on Friday, November 26, at 7 a.m.
What do you think of Target's decision? Should more stores stay closed on Thanksgiving Day? Sound off in the comments.
