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.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Be a smarter, better informed investor.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free 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
-
Is Trump's Tax Plan Speeding Up the Looming Social Security Funding Crisis?Social Security Social Security's combined retirement funds are running out of cash, and its insolvency date is expected to occur in less than a decade.
-
How to Keep Your Work Friends After You RetireWork friendships can boost teamwork, lift your spirits, and make the job more fun. But when you retire, these friendships can fade. Here's a look at why that happens and what you can do about it.
-
How to Keep Your Work Friends After You Retire
Work friendships can boost teamwork, lift your spirits, and make the job more fun. But when you retire, these friendships can fade. Here's a look at why that happens and what you can do about it.
-
These 5 Rules Separate the Rich From Everyone ElseFrom ownership to mindset, these core principles help explain why some people build lasting wealth and others stay stuck.
-
Retirees, Make These Financial Moves Before the Fed Cuts RatesThe Fed will likely reduce interest rates in mid-September. Financial experts explain where retirees should invest now to boost retirement funds.
-
How to Handle Costly Medical Bills — SmartlyIf you’re looking for a way to pay for looming health care expenses, or if you’ve already fallen into debt, you have avenues to ease the burden.
-
I’ve Got $50,000 Burning A Hole in My Pocket. Where Do I Park It Amid Rate Cuts So I Don’t Lose Ground?Why a mix of CDs can protect $50,000 from shrinking yields.
-
The Future of Financial Advice Is Human: Gen Z Trusts Advisers, But AI Skills MatterGraduates entering the workforce trust human advisers more than AI tools with their financial planning. But AI can still enhance the client/adviser relationship.
-
Building a Business That Lasts: The Critical Steps to Avoid Blunders'Another Way' author David Whorton offers advice on how to build an 'evergreen' business that endures by avoiding common pitfalls that can lead to failure.
-
How Grandparents Can Help with Education ExpensesBefore paying for your grandkids' education, it's important to consider how to help them without risking your own retirement. Here are 10 things to think about.
