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25 Target Products That'll Make You Pat Yourself On The Back Every Time You Use Them

25 Target Products That'll Make You Pat Yourself On The Back Every Time You Use Them

Buzz Feed23-04-2025

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
It's not bragging if you're just talking about your smart shopping choices... okay, fine, it's still bragging, but you have earned the right, my friend.
1. A robot mop and vacuum that is the epitome of "work smarter, not harder." Or, I guess, actually, it's the epitome of "don't work at all, make a robot clean all the muddy dog footprints off your hardwood floors."
Target
Promising review:"Currently obsessed with this thing. Love it so much. Such an improvement over the last robot vacuum/mop we bought and returned a couple of years ago. So far, I feel it is totally worth the extra money over the other brands. I have especially been surprised at the customization to cleaning different areas, from suction power to the rise of carpets and grain direction for wood floors! Also been surprised at it not getting stuck anywhere yet. It can go under and over better than my old robot did. Also, it is much quieter than I expected. I will probably start running the mop at night. The only con is my toddler is afraid of it, lol." — ElleB
2. A can organizer, because you are playing a dangerous game when you just stack your La Croix and Olipops all willy-nilly in your fridge. This organizer works for mini and full-size cans, and takes up less room than the big cardboard crate that they came in.
Target
3. A set of two bamboo drawer dividers so you can finally store your clothes in a way that will allow you to actually find the stuff you want when you need it. Imagine it... buying a pair of socks and then actually knowing where they are because they didn't randomly migrate underneath a pile of T-shirts. Revolutionary!
Target
Promising review:"I love how versatile these dividers are; I use them in drawers as well as shelving. They're very attractive and make it very easy to keep things separated/ organized." — lilyflynn
4. A Keurig K-Cafe smart single-serve coffee maker that isn't just amazing because it can make cappuccinos and lattes as well as regular coffee. No, the truly amazing thing here is the Wi-Fi capability... yup, that means you can brew coffee without getting out of bed, just by using the app. Sometimes it's cool to live in the future, right?
Promising review:"I recently got the Keurig K-Café smart coffee maker and it's honestly amazing. The Wi-Fi feature is super convenient — I can start brewing from my phone, which is perfect for those mornings when I'm still half asleep. The different brew sizes are great too, whether I'm just grabbing a small cup or need a big one to power through the day. The milk frother is such a nice touch, and I've been making some really good lattes and cappuccinos at home. It's way easier to use than I expected, and cleaning it has been simple too. The black design looks sleek on my counter, which is a bonus. If you're thinking about upgrading your coffee setup, I'd totally recommend this one. It's been a game changer for me." — Isaac
5. A Bentgo two-tier snack cup that isn't just for kids — this is perfect for bringing two equally delicious (but totally incompatible) snacks to work. Pretzels and apple slices? Hummus and blueberries? Don't fear — the cup's two airtight compartments are totally separate, so there's no leakage (or spilled pretzel dust).
Target
6. A pack of Pixi + Hello Kitty sheet masks that aren't just printed with adorable images of your fav cartoon kitty — they're soaked with vitamins A and C, and reviewers say they make their skin feel plump and ultra-hydrated.
Target
Promising reviews:"Hands down the best sheet mask I've ever tried! Leaves skin plump, hydrated and glassy. I put mine in the fridge to chill before I applied and it just added to the overall rejuvenating effect. Go buy it!!" — Anonymous
"Bought these just because they were Hello Kitty… ended up making my skin so soft and glowy for 24 hours. Evens helped the look of acne scarring." — kaitlynn j
7. A clear stackable organizer tray that's the answer to your bathroom counter chaos. Say goodbye to a million little bottles you're always accidentally knocking off the edge of the sink... and hello to actually being able to properly organize your skincare.
Target
Promising review:"I use these under my bathroom sink to organize my perfume, nail polish, face and hair oils. And I'm realizing I need to get more. They are durable. Easy to clean. Very high quality and don't scuff or scratch. These trays are the perfect size and really allow me to stay organized and aware of what products are where (super important for someone like me with ADHD)." — Target Shopper
8. A Theragun massage gun because Future You is going to be very, very pleased with Present You for buying this. This percussive massage tool has three attachments, plus an easy-to-hold triangle handle, so when your next back ache or strained calf muscle shows up, you're gonna be prepared to send it packing.
Target
Promising review: " I bought this as a gift for my son for Christmas, but one day my sciatica was acting up and I asked to borrow it. Just a few minutes of use gave me hours of relief." — Justme
9. An Our Place ceramic nonstick Always pan that works on, like, a bazillion different levels at once. It has a chic monochrome look that will make it the instant star of all your cooking posts, but it's also useful as heck: it can be used for baking, broiling, frying, steaming, braising, searing, and more. When's the last time you bought something that looked super cool *and* helped you order less Seamless?
Target
Set includes an Always Pan 2.0 in original nonstick, a modular steam-release lid, a nesting beechwood spatula, and a steamer basket and colander.
Promising review:"I love the quality of the pan and lid. The nonstick ceramic surface works beautifully. The pan heats evenly, and food cooks efficiently." — Christina
10. A marble cheese tray with a built-in slicer because this is the height of glamour! Well, it's the height of cheese-related glamour, at the very least. Plus, it solves the * very cheesy * problem of having your knife slip when you're trying to cut off a bit of cheddar on your cutting board.
Target
Promising review:"Perfect size. Heavy-duty board. Looks expensive but the price is perfect! Heavy in weight, too." — Tiffy3
Price: $20
11. A two-tier organizer so the area under your bathroom sink no longer has to be an untamed wilderness. These organizers won't just double your storage space — they have a tiny side pocket so you can keep your smaller items easily on hand, too.
Target
Promising review: "Amazing. I really like the functionality and convenience of this under-the-sink organizer. The two-tier design allows me to maximize the limited space under my kitchen sink, and the side caddy and hooks make it easy to access my cleaning supplies and other essentials. The nonslip rubber legs keep it securely in place, and the drainage holes and raised base keep my items dry and organized. Assembling it was a breeze, and the high-quality plastic and durable metal rods provided additional stability. Overall, this under-sink organizer is a home organization must-have that I would recommend to anyone looking to make the most out of their storage space." — abe
12. A 12-pound weighted knit blanket that will fit in with your rustic, boho or coastal decor better than your standard fleece-covered weighted blanket. Instead of being filled with glass beads, it's knit from weighted tubes... different technology, different look, same next-level coziness and relaxation.
Target
Promising review:"I purchased on a whim and this blanket is wonderful. I am sleeping so much better. It is exactly 12 pounds and I find the knit material to provide some breathability while being sturdy but soft. I traded my bead-filled weighted blanket for this and feel it is definitely worth the price. It looks like a regular throw blanket and I purchased the blush color which is beautiful, making it visually appealing as well. I recommend!" — FL
13. A seven-tier shoe rack for anyone whose entryway is home to a Giant Shoe Pile. This rack has a charming minimalist aesthetic, but more importantly, it'll keep you from tripping over a stray Converse ever again.
Target
Promising review:"I ordered more than one and they are great in small spaces, as described. They were easy to put together, and we're using one as additional storage in the bathroom, and also as a shoe rack in a bedroom. It is versatile and worth the price." — Carm
Price: $47.99+ (originally $129.99; available in two colors)
14. A wine-purifying tool that removes sulfites, aka the things that cause wine headaches. Might I suggest pairing this with a nice cab franc and the shocked and amazed expressions on all of your friends' faces?
Target
Promising review:"I've owned this purifier for three years. It's awesome. Used to always get headaches from sulfites in red wine, but this took care of that. It doesn't change the taste of the wine, either. It's a little pricey, and you have to buy filters, but if you get bad headaches and love wine, it will be worth it. Their customer service is also top-notch. We accidentally threw away a small part of the device, contacted the company, and they shipped us a replacement part for free. Five stars all around! Cheers!" — Cat Milgar
15. An ultrasonic skin-scrubbing spatula because all those fancy schmancy serums and lotions you buy may actually just be sitting on top of your skin and not really getting absorbed. This handy dandy tool can help with that — and it can help deep clean with high-frequency vibrations that lift blackheads, whiteheads, and grime out of the skin.
Target
Promising reviews:"This does a great job cleaning my skin. I have glass skin after using this product!" — Vickie
16. A battery-powered indoor/outdoor camera with night vision that works equally well for seeing who's at the door as it does for keeping an eye on Fluffy while you're out for the day. Plus, it has two-way audio — perfect for reminding your pups that they're good, chatting with visitors, or surprise-serenading your partner from across town.
Target
17. A breakfast sandwich maker, because is there any decision as genius as the decision that allows you to have a piping-hot bacon, egg and cheese without putting on pants of any sort??
Target
Promising review:"Bought this so my husband has another breakfast option when he wakes at 4:30 a.m. He likes how easy and fast it is, and the sandwich comes out perfectly. As others have mentioned, we haven't experienced problems with the egg seeping out yet. I'd buy it again." — Ruhere
18. A Bluetooth-enabled Polaroid printer that literally fits in any pocket or bag and can instantly turn any digital photo into a sticker or print. I'm not saying you weren't the life of the party before you bought this... but you definitely are now.
Target
19. A Kitsch coconut oil deep conditioning bar so you can hydrate your locks without any plastic waste. Plus, isn't sudsing up a bar way more convenient that squirting gooey conditioner every which way?
Target
Promising review:"I was skeptical, but so far, so good! After each use, my hair is full and super soft! I'll definitely purchase again." — Melthomp
20. An inflatable saucer chair, because beach/camping/park hangout season is just around the corner, and this year, no one is going to catch you messing around with those terrible little folding beach chairs (you know, the ones that always almost take your finger off with their hinges). It also works indoors, if you're traveling, in the middle of moving, or just want to sit in a big inflatable chair while you do your Hacks rewatch.
21. A 5-quart Ninja air fryer that air fries, bakes, and crisps, so you can have a million dinner options that all take minimal effort from you (the best type of dinner options, imho).
Target
Promising review:"It has a great basket to fit in quite a bit, but it's not overly huge on the counter. It is a bit loud, but it cooks so well! We are really enjoying it so far. Looking forward to using it even more!" — MrMikeG
Price: $119.99
22. An ultra-slim two slice toaster, because have you ever noticed that your toaster is weirdly enormous? Why does it need so much hardware just to toast two lil' slices of bread? This narrow model will take up way less counterspace (but will toast your bagels just as thoroughly).
Target
Promising review:"I first loved the minimalistic design and that it's lightweight. I love the tray to clean bread crumbs. Functional buttons are easy to understand and the toaster does a perfect job." — Placemat
23. A knit midi tank dress for anyone with a closet full of clothes, but nothing to wear. This adorable neutral dress? That has fun piping to make it unique, but also enough subtle style to go with pretty much any accessory? It is Something To Wear.
Target
Pssst! Reviewers recommend sizing down.
Promising review:"This is a fantastic dress! It's floor length and I can wear it with flats or heels. The material is soft and it washed very well. I'm planning to take it on an upcoming cruise. Beyond that, I know I will enjoy wearing it all spring and summer." — M
25. A Google 4K TV streamer with voice search, because it feels like typing out the name of the show you want to watch on a traditional remote takes about as long as it does to actually watch it. Plus, it has a much more streamlined and ~aesthetic~ look than most other streaming devices.
Target
Promising review:"Just what I needed! It looks modern and stylish. Perfect size, great features, and quality. Buying a second one." — Me
Price: $99.99
Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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Affordable Pet Toys: 25 Chewy Options Under $25
Affordable Pet Toys: 25 Chewy Options Under $25

Buzz Feed

time6 hours ago

  • Buzz Feed

Affordable Pet Toys: 25 Chewy Options Under $25

A Kong extreme dog toy so strong, even the toughest of chewers won't be able to destroy it no matter how much they try... errr, gnaw. This toy is so popular, it has over 1,700 5-star reviews! Promising review: "This has been — by far — the strongest toy we have ever had. I have gone through several Kong Extreme toys, and this is the only one that has lasted us a significant amount of time. My dog typically goes through 'tough' chew toys within one to four days, but we have had this for almost two years now!!!" —CassiePrice: $8.99+ (available in sizes S-XXL)Read a BuzzFeed editor's full review of the Kong. A Chuckit! flying disc toy perfect for taking a typical of game of fetch to ~new heights~. This flying disc is like no other — it's lightweight, durable, buoyant in water, easy to clean, and gentle on dogs' mouths. What more could you want in a toy?Promising review: "It's easy to get a good long flight, thus giving my dog more exercise while we have some fun!!" —SherylPrice $14.95 (you'll receive an assorted color) A treat-dispensing ball that will have your furry pal begging you to play at all times (sorry). Looking for a versatile toy sure to have your pup jumping for joy? This is it, my friends! This breathable rubber ball is ideal for playing fetch, tossing, and tugging — it's everything your dog wants in a toy!Promising review: "Our pet enjoys this ball every day. He begs for this toy every day in the morning like clockwork. It keeps him busy getting the treats out one by one." —GeraldPrice: $9.28 (originally $14.95) A three-way tunnel so your beloved furball(s) can have endless adventures. Ideal for puppies, cats, rabbits, and other furry friends, this is a toy you're definitely going to want to bring into your home. It includes three connected tunnels, built-in crinkle paper, a peephole, and a jingle ball toy. It will give both you and your pal hours of enjoyment. It's made of durable polyester, plus it's collapsible and portable, so you can take it with you to a friend's review: " This is so entertaining for my cat. She loves popping her head up through the hole while I play peekaboo with her. She races in and out and wears herself out!" —CarolPrice: $19.99+ (available in two colors) A Clifford plush toy that'll be like a sibling for your pup, except this dog won't pee on the floor or steal your socks. It's made with a soft, lightweight, and breathable material for cozy cuddles. Plus, it's got a built-in squeaker and crinkle ears for interactive review: "Bought this as a plush toy for my puppy. She loves it and it holds up to the messes and chewing you'd expect from a puppy." —NathanielPrice: $13.99 A Wobble Wag Giggle ball that will have you LOLing at your dog. Instead of watching a show on Netflix, you'll just watch your dog flip out over this glow-in-the-dark toy. All your dog has to do is nudge the ball with their nose to get it going. It shakes, wiggles, and makes sounds that will have your pup engaged immediately. They'll be able to knock it around with their paws thanks to the many clutch pockets. It's sure to be a winner in your review: "You might get sick of the sound, but your pet will love you for it. My dog was obsessed with this ball. She was so happy every time I would bring it out of her toy box. Kept her busy for hours." —AbbiePrice: $14.99 A trio of stuffing-less toys for your pup to chew on without making a complete mess of your living room. You're welcome. One of my dogs is a Boston Terrier who likes long walks, ripping apart her stuffed toys to reveal the squeaker inside, and getting fluff in every room of the house. If your pup is anything like mine, these toys are sure to give them the chewing satisfaction they crave without creating a lot of clean-up for us dog review: "I thought our Labs would have these pulled apart minutes after getting these. They are thin and smaller than expected. But... They are strong, and they have not pulled the squeaker out yet!! They tug on them and swing them around, and they have held up wonderfully!!" —MardiPrice: $12.39 A durable set of rope toys that you and Fido will be able to play with time and time again without worrying about breakage. It includes a set of five rope toys for small and medium review: "I was very happy to have a number of these chew toys in one purchase for a good price. They're sturdy and hold up, and happily, they give my 10-month-old puppy something sturdy to chew on instead of the furniture! Thank you!" —KathleenPrice: $12.99 for a set of five A hide-a-squirrel plush toy your dog will become obsessed with as they search for the cute lil' squirrels tucked inside the log. Promising review: "The quality of this plush toy is outstanding. Our chocolate lab absolutely loves it. He pulls out the squirrels, throws them in the air, and we stuff them back in. Ticks him off. Lol" –debbiePrice: $9.99+ (available in four sizes) A collapsible cat tunnel that your feline friend will spend hours and hours running through. Even the laziest of cats will take a trot through these. Promising review: "Newt, our 5-year-old cat, plays with the tunnel all day. Runs in and out with toys and sometimes just lays inside it." –RobertaPrice: $14.99 A cat teaser toy for your cat to be endlessly entertained by, as you dangle the feather in front of them with a wand. They'll feel so accomplished once they finally snatch the feather. Promising review: "There aren't many things that make our cat jump around, but this is one of them. She loves hearing the bell ring and runs over to bat the feathers around. The stick is springy, so it bounces around without much effort on my part. Very fun toy!" –ElenaPrice: $10.99 A tug-of-war toy that is flexible and durable, even as your dog digs their chompers into it and pulls as hard as they can! Promising review: "This is GREAT. My dog loves this toy. We have had it for 4 weeks, and there are no teeth marks or holes in the rubber. Very flexible with no smell like other rubber toys." –LeodaPrice: $17.95+ (available in two sizes) A super tough bone great for larger breeds, because it can withstand intense chewing. The bone is bacon flavored, so your dog won't be able to resist the meaty goodness this toy offers. Promising review: "One of our dogs is a relentless chewer, so finding something that he doesn't immediately shred is important. It's his new favorite toy!! he hasn't made a dent yet :)" –MikailaPrice: $4.97+ (available in three sizes) A squeaky plush champagne bottle and flute set so your pup can have their own version of mommy/daddy's favorite beverage. Promising review: "My puppy loves to chew on these. So much so that when we put them away to run the Roomba, she drags them out of her basket. Plus, it's so cute to see her carry them around!" –titanPrice: $9.99 for the set An interactive toy that'll keep small pets like rabbits and chinchillas occupied while they play with all the different textures, including sisal and loofa. Price: $18.71 A plush cactus toy because it has another toy stuffed inside of it, meaning that if your dog tears through the first layer of plush, they will have another squeaky toy to play with. Promising review: "My 6-month-old pup absolutely loves this toy! She flails it around all over the house. So far, she has not managed to rip it open. (Not sure if she ever will.) But it has stood the test of her puppy teeth!" —TerriPrice: $12.99 (available in two sizes) An interactive cat treat puzzle toy for any cat who's food motivated. Give them something to do and something to munch on. Promising review: "My cat, Taro, loves this puzzle. We have spinner puzzles for her; however, she has never been interested in them like she is with this puzzle. I could see her learning how each piece worked, even though she struggled a bit at first. If you have a bored cat, I would recommend this product!" —BrookePrice: $8.87 A axolotl tennis ball your pup will love to chase around. It's got all the fun of a tennis ball with the playful look of a stuffed toy. Promising review: "My dog loves squeaky balls, especially when they're brand new. This ball was the most popular one we've given to her. I actually had to pick it up at night so she'd go to sleep!" —christaPrice: $5.99 A set of springs your cat can pounce on and play with for hours. Toss these around and watch them go wild! Promising review: "My cat doesn't play with ANYTHING. For ten years, I've been looking for a toy that she actually shows interest in, and boy howdy do these fit the bill. She chases these guys all over the place. I put seven of them out and within half an hour they'd all disappeared, chased into corners and under couches and god knows where else. Cleocatra approved!" —Jeanette Price: $3.99 for 10 (also available in packs of 20 and 40) A Lamb Chop squeaky plush dog toy your pet will fall in love with the same way you did when watching the TV show as a kid. This toy has 7,300+ five-star reviews! Promising review: "All three of my little dogs absolutely love this toy! So much so that I have to buy a couple more so they can have their own. The small size and the squeaker inside are what I think they love so much about it. It's easy for them to carry around and easy to squeak. 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Well made and the straps make it easy to grab rather than trying to put the whole ball in his mouth" —ValeriePrice: $11.99 Catnip banana toys that'll make your cat go bananas, b-a-n-a-n-a-s. They're stuffed with organic catnip with a scent that'll last for the long haul. Promising review: "The moment I opened this toy and gave it to my cats, they went bonkers for it! I have a nine-cat household and I'll definitely need to order another one." —MichelePrice: $17.10 for two A tomato vine so your pup can enjoy the season's best produce, too. Go ahead and challenge your furry friend to a game of tug-of-war. May the odds be ever in your favor. Price: $12.99 An easy-hold Nylabone dental chew toy your dog will never want to take their paws off of. Plus, it can help freshen their breath, which you'll be thankful for next time they give you a slobbery kiss. Promising review: "My heavy chewer puppy (8 months old) uses this as one of her favorite toys, and it lasts better than most." —AldenPrice: $8.27+ (available in two sizes) Your pet when they can't destroy any of their new toys: The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.

Target Moves Pride Merchandise Aside To Spotlight Father's Day And July 4th Holidays
Target Moves Pride Merchandise Aside To Spotlight Father's Day And July 4th Holidays

Forbes

time9 hours ago

  • Forbes

Target Moves Pride Merchandise Aside To Spotlight Father's Day And July 4th Holidays

Target shifted a smaller, less flamboyant collection of Pride Month merchandise back to make room for patriotic, Independence Day displays in-store and Father's Day online as other major retailers are likewise reducing emphasis on Pride displays and focusing more on other summer shopping holidays, according to CNN. Target's Pride 2025 collection is streamlined to just over 100 clothing, home, food and beverage and stationery items, all exclusively for adults, with the full collection only available online and featuring less prominent displays in some of its stores – last year only about half of Target stores had Pride displays. Target Pride merchandise is facing criticism – calls it 'pathetic' and 'confusing' – with fewer prominent rainbows on display, such as beige sandals with inconspicuous rainbow-stitching detail. Other retailers making short shrift of Pride merchandise include Macy's with an easily overlooked Pride banner way down on its home page, Walmart's home page makes no mention and Gap offers nothing overtly Pride-related online. However, Nordstrom, Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister and Kohl's highlight Pride collections on their homepages and brands, including Levi's, Converse, Nike, Puma, Apple, Bombas, Skullcandy, Diesel, MAC cosmetics, Brooklinen, Chubbies, and Jansports, offer significant Pride Month 2025 collections. The National Retail Federation predicts Americans will spend a record $24 billion on Father's Day this year, up 7% from last year, and that nearly 90% participate in July 4th celebrations, which falls on a Friday and is likely to result in a spending boost as well. After Father's Day on June 15 has passed, will retailers lean into Pride Month promotions? Target seems to be in retreat where the LGBTQ community is concerned following Target's 2023 Pride Month displays sparked consumer backlash, calls for boycotts and in-store employee harassment, leading the company to pull Pride displays from some stores that year. As a result, Pride Month merchandise selections were scaled back in 2024 and in-store displays limited to about half of its 2,000 stores. This year, its Pride merchandise appears to be downsized even more and a similar short list of stores will feature displays. In addition, after Target ended its diversity, equity and inclusion program and stopped sharing data with the HRC Corporate Equality Index earlier this year, many diverse communities – including LGBTQ individuals – have felt abandoned by a company that was once seen a champion of minority groups. After ending 2023 down 2%, with a notable 4% comparable sales decline, and revenues basically flat in 2024, Target started 2025 with revenues off 3% and comparable sales down 4% in the first quarter. Its stock price has dropped nearly 30% this year. Numerous reasons have been given for Target's continued underperformance, but its troubles started in 2Q2023 after the Pride Month controversy when comparable sales dropped just over 5%. Before that hit, revenues rose 3% in fiscal 2022. The election of Donald Trump and his administration's strong stance against DEI programs have caused numerous corporations, like Target, to reexamine internal policies that might bring down the government's wrath. With Target facing financial pressures after having alienated more conservative customers in Pride Month 2023 and most recently, those who oppose Target's DEI reversal, it appears that Target is trying to establish itself as a 'big tent' retailer, welcoming a broad range of customers without taking ideological stances that could disenfranchise one group or another. Regrettably, it doesn't seem to be working as financial results flag and calls for boycotts continue. A new survey from the Kearney Consumer Institute, entitled 'Weighting Value with Values,' found more consumers are prioritizing the price/value equation over values-based purchasing decisions. Only about 20% of U.S. consumers believe it more important for brands to voice their values, while 80% prioritize delivering on their quality expectations. Given this 80/20 spilt, there are pitfalls for brands that get out over their skis where controversial issues are concerned, such as boycotts. Notably, a surprisingly high 39% of consumers said they have participated in a brand boycott over the past 12 months. 'You're damned if you do, damned if you don't because while many people say brands should voice their values, but then they can use that against you,' shared Katie Thomas who leads the KCI internal think tank. Right-leaning Turning Point USA contributor Morgonn McMichael praised Target in an Instagram post for showing 'more American pride' this year with its family-oriented, patriotic displays front and center in her local Target store. 'If there is anything indicating a cultural shift in our country, it's the fact that Target's Pride Collection is now this small, while Fourth of July, Independence Day is celebrated galore,' she said. 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After Disastrous Experiments Into AI, Target Pledges to Pile on Even More AI
After Disastrous Experiments Into AI, Target Pledges to Pile on Even More AI

Yahoo

time11 hours ago

  • Yahoo

After Disastrous Experiments Into AI, Target Pledges to Pile on Even More AI

Just days before Christmas in 2023, the big box megachain Target announced it was using artificial intelligence to make the holiday shopping experience "even better." It was a little over a year after OpenAI released the first mass-market large language model (LLM) chatbot, ChatGPT, and you could practically cut the AI hype with a knife. Everyone — and more importantly, every business — was rushing to prove how cutting edge they were with an onslaught of AI technobabble. Target was no exception, as the company droned on about using AI to become the "future of retail." In reality, all that "innovation" and "efficiency" talk basically amounted to a huge surveillance initiative, which allegedly includes facial recognition software, according to a class action lawsuit. One plaintiff alleged that, shortly after shopping at a Target in Illinois, she got a notification that a loss prevention manager had looked her up on LinkedIn, which informs users when others visit their profiles. There was also a generative AI "Store Companion," a chatbot meant to make low-wage employees even more efficient, and Roundel, a data-gathering AI-marketing platform "connecting our guests to brands they love through product ad placements." Over two years into Target's paradigm-changing AI initiative, it clearly isn't panning out. Target's first quarter earnings results were way wide of the bullseye, with revenue falling $24.5 billion compared to last year. Total sales dipped three percent, while in-store foot traffic fell off. The bad news prompted the big box store to flip its 2025 financial forecast from positive to negative, sending its stock into a nosedive. Though Target blamed Trump's erratic tariffs and sustained boycotts following the chain's rollback of DEI policies for its woes, it's chosen to solve the issue with — you guessed it — even more AI. Following up on its dismal earnings results, Target announced a "multi-year Enterprise Acceleration Office," led by COO Michael Fiddelke. The box store explained that this new office will "drive even greater speed and agility across the company, positioning Target to deliver faster progress on its roadmap for growth." During Target's first quarter earnings call with investors, Fiddelke said he'll work to "more boldly leverage technology and AI." What that means in practice is anyone's guess. The executive hinted that Target has "compelling technology projects in flight" that will "modernize and streamline core inventory management and allocation processes," which sound an awful lot like the same systems the corporation was bragging about revolutionizing with AI back in 2023. "AI helps us ensure our guests find the holiday gifts and essentials they need by forecasting product demand and keeping items from going out of stock," the company's Chief Information Officer Brett Craig proudly chimed at the time. "Further up the supply chain, we use AI to ensure inventory is in the right locations so we can quickly and efficiently respond as demand fluctuates." At the moment, it's unclear where Target could even cram more AI in a way that would benefit shoppers. Customers frequently complain about long wait times at self checkouts, trashed aisles, and empty shelves. And it's immensely hard to imagine AI solving any of those real-world woes. More on AI: Taco Bell Piles on More AI While Customers Plead "Just Bring Back The Enchirito" Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

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