Target Launches 10,000 New Summer Products and Free Giveaways
The Minneapolis-based retailer announced it's rolling out 10,000 new items each month through August, hoping to draw customers back to stores amid declining foot traffic.
The massive product launch spans everything from swimwear and outdoor entertainment to snacks, beauty, and home goods. Prices start at just $1, with thousands of items priced under $20. The collection draws inspiration from "beach boardwalks" and "relaxed coastal living," creating what Target calls a "nostalgic, coastal-inspired" shopping experience.
"Millions of families have been counting down the days to summer and the Target team is excited to help them make the most of the season," said Rick Gomez, executive VP and chief commercial officer. "With more than 10,000 new items across our assortment, and many starting at just $1, we have something for every celebration — and it's all fresh, fun, inspiring and incredibly affordable."
The timing couldn't be more critical as Target's foot traffic has struggled recently, falling for 11 consecutive weeks before seeing a brief uptick in mid-April, according to Placer.ai data. By early May, visits were declining again, dropping 2.9% for the week of May 5.
To create hype, Target is launching "Hello Summer Saturdays" every Saturday in June – the first time the retailer has hosted free giveaway events across all its stores simultaneously. Target Circle members can collect exclusive charms and keychains while browsing summer-themed displays. Each week also features limited-time Target Circle offers, including 20% off Favorite Day treats and up to 50% off Sun Squad pool and outdoor toys.
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The summer push includes specially designed in-store experiences. The Boardwalk Shop will feature seasonal treats like red, white and blue snacks for Fourth of July and build-your-own s'mores kits. Build Your Beach Bag stations throughout stores will offer travel-size beauty products, affordable tech accessories, and summer reads. The Sun Shop will focus on suncare for the entire family.
Target kicks off the campaign with a "Hello Summer" sale running May 18-26, featuring major deals both in stores and online.
The move comes as retailers face mounting pressure from inflation concerns and shifting consumer spending habits. A University of Michigan survey showed consumer sentiment dropped almost 7 percentage points in April, reaching near-historic lows. Respondents expect inflation to hit 6.7% in the coming year – the highest level since 1981.
"We're in an environment right now where consumers are feeling pressured," said Joe Feldman, senior managing director at Telsey Advisory Group. "There's been a general pullback on spending on discretionary goods."