Target’s foot traffic dropped for the sixth consecutive month in July after the retail chain scaled back on its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in January, a move in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order, which affected public and private sectors.
Retail Brew reported that in July, foot traffic at Target fell 3.8%, and the year-over-year decline continued for 25 of the last 27 weeks.
What is the real problem with Target’s decline?
While many believe the department store’s decision to scale back its DEI policies is the issue, some analysts point to a decline in core product offerings as the root of the problem.
From empty cart corrals to bare shelves and spoiled food items, experts say such problems are driving customers to shop elsewhere. The same issues are also affecting Target’s staff and their perception of the retailer.
Target’s performance is a factor, CEO says
On Aug. 10, The Wall Street Journal reported that 40% of Target’s 260,000 employees completed an internal company survey, stating they were unsure about the company’s future, which is a decline from a year ago.
“While we recognize the hard work and progress underway, we’re not where we want to be,” Target CEO Brian Cornell told the outlet Saturday.
Target has faced challenges this year, including DEI backlash and a significant decline in overall performance. Grassroots organizations and Atlanta minister Jamal Bryant have led successful nationwide boycotts against the retailer since February. However, in July, he condemned the National Baptist Convention Board for taking a $300,000 donation from the company.
‘If you’re not standing in truth, you’re just standing in the way’
Bryant, pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, called out the convention board members’ partnership with Target to win back Black customers.
“The Baptist Convention might have it twisted. The only way we’re going to win this is together. Sit down. Listen. Unite. If you’re not standing in truth, you’re just standing in the way. ‘Something’s Gotta Break’ is streaming now on all platforms,” Bryant said in a clip shared on the church’s Instagram page.
Journalist Roland Martin also called out the National Baptist Convention Board for accepting those funds from Target: “$17 BILLION in profit. $2 BILLION promised to Black businesses. Target’s offer to Black church leaders? $300,000 — split 3 ways. That breaks down to $322 per church,” he said in a series of tweets, per Blavity.
