A man with a surprised expression in front of a Target building.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS

Target issues an urgent statement in the U.S.: members are amazed

Target announces major changes that are generating great expectation among their employees and customers in the U.S

In recent years, Target has faced numerous challenges that have affected its performance and relationship with customers. Although it is one of the largest chains in the United States, it has seen a decrease in the number of visitors and sales in its stores. This situation has caused great expectation and concern among its employees and consumers.

Recently, Target released an urgent statement that has left many of its members surprised. The company announced major changes in its labor policies, especially regarding remote work. Starting in September, many corporate employees will have to return to the office in person at least three days per week, a measure that has caused a stir both internally and externally.

Storefront with a large red and white sign at the entrance and a parking lot in front.
Target demands a return to the office three days a week | Target

Labor changes at Target: return to the office

On July 10, Target sent an email to its employees in the merchandising and sourcing areas, informing them that starting September 2, they will have to work from the headquarters in Minneapolis three days a week, according to Twin Cities Business. This decision affects several corporate divisions, which in recent weeks have received similar notifications.

Rick Gomez, Target's chief commercial officer, stated that "more time together in the office will help us grow the business, solve problems quickly, and strengthen relationships." Despite the return to the office, employees will be able to choose the days that best fit their schedules and teams.

According to a Target spokesperson, "team members value the connection and collaboration that occurs when working in person." The measure comes in a delicate context for Target, which not only has to face this controversy, but also the drop in sales and the decrease in customers. During the first quarter, Target reported a 3.8% drop in comparable sales compared to the previous year and a 4.8% reduction in visitors per store, according to Placer.ai.

Facade of a Target store with a hiring sign and people walking by the entrance.
Target reported a 3.8% drop in comparable sales | en.edatv.news

Target seeks to adapt to a changing environment

Target is not the only company that is limiting remote work. Companies such as Amazon, JP Morgan Chase, and Dell have also required their employees to return to in-person work, some even five days a week. These corporations argue that innovation and collaboration improve with physical interaction.

However, this trend could have negative consequences. According to a survey by FTI Consulting, 88% of remote workers accept going to the office some days, but one third do not want more than two days. Forcing a full return could lead to a loss of talent, something that worries human resources experts.

Target's Storefront with a large circular red and white logo on the exterior wall.
The chain reduces remote work after a drop in store visits | en.edatv.news

The outlook is complex, since office activity has not yet recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Data from Placer.ai show that office visits in the United States were 27.4% below in June 2025 compared to June 2019. Even so, there was an 8.3% increase compared to the previous year, indicating a partial recovery.

In this context, Target seeks to adapt to a changing environment, but the reaction of its employees and consumers shows that the strategy will have to be evaluated carefully. The tension between the return to the office and workers' expectations will be a challenge to overcome in the coming months.

➡️ Consumer Affairs

More posts: