"This isn't a year for crowds."
Joining Walmart, Target has announced it, too, will keep its doors closed on Thanksgiving Day. This move is reversing several years worth of retailers opening earlier and earlier on Thanksgiving for Black Friday sales.
“The investments we’ve made in our business and our incredible team have enabled us to move with flexibility and speed to meet guests’ changing needs during this global pandemic,” said Target CEO Brian Cornell in a statement. “This year more than ever, a joyful holiday will be inseparable from a safe one, and we’re continuing to adjust our plans to deliver ease, value and the joy of the season in a way that only Target can.”
Target and Walmart's announcements are serving as early indicators of how holiday shopping will go this year. Walmart has said that it will open on Black Friday for the usual sales. Target has announced a different plan for its holiday shopping season, making deals available earlier and online.
"Let’s face it: Historically, deal hunting and holiday shopping can mean crowded events, and this isn’t a year for crowds. That’s why our biggest holiday deals will be available earlier than ever, so you can shop safely and conveniently without worrying about missing out on deals that usually come later in the season. Starting in October and continuing throughout the season, you’ll find Target’s lowest prices of the year on items in stores and online, giving you the flexibility to get the gifts you want—when and how you want—at the Target value you love," the retailer said in a statement.
It also plans to make more product available for drive-up order pickups and delivery services. So far, Same-Day Delivery through Shipt grew 278 percent in Target's first quarter alone.
So, this year, it's looking like Black Friday sales are shaping up to be quite different than usual. But, if you're a Target or Walmart shopper (and more retailers are likely to stay closed on Thanksgiving), you can enjoy your time with family and fuel up on turkey without missing our on great deals.
"When we say you can take advantage of great deals all season long, we really mean it. So kick back, relax and enjoy a long nap after you finish that last piece of Thanksgiving turkey. This season, you can count on getting extra-big savings without the extra-long lines, with plenty of opportunities to score the best deals on the hottest items both before and after November 26," Target said.
What do you think? Are you happy that retailers are stepping back from opening on Thanksgiving Day? Let us know in the comments.