Esther D’Amico
Target has begun to limit the number of items you can take through the self-check lane to 10, the latest in a string of policy changes this year at the retail giant.
The self-checkout limit, which began yesterday (March 17) at nearly 2,000 stores nationwide, followed a pilot project at about 200 stores last fall that sped up the checkout process, Target said.
"By having the option to pick self-checkout for a quick trip, or a traditional, staffed lane when their cart is full, guests who were surveyed told us the overall checkout experience was better, too.," Target said in a statement.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
The move, which follows announced plans for a series of new launches, is the retailer's latest attempt to appeal to both returning and new customers, as shopping habits shift and evolve in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. While shoppers are going back into stores, they are more value-conscious than they were before, and are still keenly interested in scoring deals.
Earlier this month, Target said it would expand its loyalty program on April 7 to include a $99 annual membership plan, called Target Circle 360.
You can get the membership plan for a $49 introductory rate for the first year, however, if you enroll after the launch by May 18 and have a Target Circle Card (credit, debit and reloadable) saved to your target account, Target said. The plan offers same-day delivery in under an hour for orders over $35; free two-day shipping; and an extra 30 days to return items.
The 360 plan is in addition to Target Circle, the retailer's free-to-join membership, as well as its Target Circle Card (previously known as Target RedCard), which offers perks including free two-day shipping on eligible items.
Target's other launches include two new brand introductions: dealworthy and Gigglescape. The dealworthy brand offers various items starting under $1 with most items under $10. It launched in February but will continue a roll out through 2024 and into early 2025. Gigglescape, which be rolled out this year and beyond, is a new toy brand that includes plush, books, toys and games.
For more information about Target loyalty programs, visit its dedicated site.
RELATED CONTENT
-
If You'd Put $1,000 Into Procter & Gamble Stock 20 Years Ago, Here's What You'd Have TodayProcter & Gamble stock is a dependable dividend grower, but a disappointing long-term holding.
-
Could This Little Known Data Shift Hurt Your 2026 Social Security COLA?The BLS has changed how it measures the inflationary data that determines whether Social Security benefits will get a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Will it hurt your benefits?
-
Financial Pros Provide a Beginner's Guide to Building Wealth in 10 YearsBuilding wealth over 10 years requires understanding your current financial situation, budgeting effectively, eliminating high-interest debt and increasing both your income and financial literacy.
-
You're Divorced, But the Work Isn't Over: A Guide to Five Financial Tasks to Do ASAPOnce your divorce is settled, don't waste time. You've got to tie up some important loose ends or risk losing money and facing tax consequences.
-
Integrity, Generosity and Wealth: A Faith-Based Approach to BusinessEntrepreneurs who align their business and financial decisions with the biblical principles of integrity, generosity and helping others can realize impactful and fulfilling success.
-
My First $1 Million: Retired Tech Industry Director, 78, Delaware County, OhioEver wonder how someone who's made a million dollars or more did it? Kiplinger's My First $1 Million series uncovers the answers.
-
The Country Club Arms Race Adds Perks (And Fees) Beyond Golf. Is It Worth the Expense?As golf has grown in popularity, country clubs are upgrading with amenities for the whole family. Find out what's new and what's worth the cost of memberships.
-
Are You Jeopardizing Your Future to Help Your Adult Kids? An Expert Guide for How to Not Do ThatIf your adult child needs financial help, of course you want to provide it, but crafting a plan that also protects your financial and emotional well-being is vital.
-
The Anti-Prime Day Deals Guide to Everyday Essentials Worth Stocking Up on at Walmart, Target and Sam's ClubSkip Amazon and shop these anti-Prime Day deals at Walmart, Target or Sam's Club to save on all of your household essentials.
-
Amtrak Joins Prime Day With Deals on Fares — But You’ll Have to Act FastPrime members can score 20% off midweek fares — what travelers should know before booking.
