Target Stores

Target Stores is a division of Target Corporation. The discount retail chain in the United States has 1,272 stores in 47 states that operate under the mastheads of Target, Target Greatland and SuperTarget. The first Target store opened in 1962 in Roseville, Minnesota. That store is still operating today.

In order to create a niche for itself, Target is known for differentiating itself from competitors like Kmart and Wal-Mart by offering more upscale, trend-forward merchandise. In fact, Target refers to itself as a "discount department store" instead of just a discount store. To further differentiate itself, Target does not play Muzak in its stores, the stores are typically cleaner and more organized than its rivals, and it calls its customers "guests".

The Bullseye logo of Target is one of the most recognized corporate logos in the country.

Many of Target's biggest fans often refer to the store as "Tar-zhay" (pronounced in pseudo-French accent), a reference to its staunchly middle-class clientele.

The company places an emphasis on teamwork; employees are known as "team members" and "team leads". A heavy piece of merchandise that requires more than one person to carry is called a "team lift."

Within the past few years, Target has begun focusing heavily on its Target Visa, a credit card that can be used anywhere (in contrast to the Target Guest Card, which can only be used at Target stores.) Using the card donates a small percentage of the sales to the public school of the cardholder's choice and accumulates points for 10% off coupons. Cashiers at Target are highly encouraged to ask guests to apply for a "Target Card" and the question has become somewhat infamous among shoppers.

There is also a Target operating as discount department store under the same logo and a similar style in Australia with over 150 stores. The brand in Australia is owned by Coles Myer and is not connected with Target Corporation USA. Target USA does not and never has operated stores outside of the United States.