Target Challenges Walmart and Amazon With $5B Marketplace Bet

Target Corporation has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to drive over $15 billion in sales growth by 2030, leveraging a mix of digital innovation, curated product offerings, and enhanced customer experiences.

Target Challenges Walmart and Amazon With $5B Marketplace Bet

Target Corporation has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to drive over $15 billion in sales growth by 2030, leveraging a mix of digital innovation, curated product offerings, and enhanced customer experiences. The strategy, announced at its March 2025 financial community meeting, underscores Target’s commitment to blending physical, digital, and social commerce while prioritizing affordability and discovery. Let’s unpack the key pillars of this plan and the insights from CEO Brian Cornell.

1. Delighting Guests with On-Trend Newness

Target is doubling down on its reputation for fresh, affordable merchandise, with plans to inject even more innovation into its product assortment:

  • Reimagining Key Categories: A multi-year initiative will revitalize gaming, sports, and toys through expanded assortments and immersive in-store experiences. Home décor brands like Hearth & Hand with Magnolia and Threshold will see trend-forward updates.

  • Owned Brand Expansions: The Good & Gather line will debut chef collaborations starting with James Beard Award-winner Chef Ann Kim on March 9. Over 600 new food and beverage items and refreshed pet supplies under Boots & Barkley aim to broaden affordable choices.

  • New Partnerships: Collections with Champion and Disney, along with shop-in-shops featuring Warby Parker, will deepen Target’s appeal as a destination for exclusive brands.

  • Apparel Speed: Faster design-to-shelf processes will streamline collections like All in Motion activewear, responding swiftly to trends.

  • Beauty Innovation: Following February’s launch of 45+ new beauty brands (90% under $20), Target promises more beauty “newness” in 2025.

“Our strategy is all about creating today’s Tarzhay, offering everyday discovery and delight for millions of families.” — Brian Cornell

2. Designing for Discovery Across Digital and Physical Channels

Target is redefining omnichannel shopping by integrating technology and expanding its digital ecosystem:

  • AI-Driven Personalization: Enhanced search and recommendation algorithms will tailor product suggestions, while social media integration will align with trending topics.

  • Target+ Marketplace Expansion: Third-party sales are projected to surge from $1 billion (2024) to $5 billion by 2030, adding brands like PelotonDaily Harvest, and Honest Baby Clothing.

  • Roundel Media Growth: Target’s in-house media company, which drove over $2 billion in value in 2024, aims to double in size by 2030.

“We are doubling down on initiatives that scale these capabilities and drive meaningful top-line and bottom-line growth.” — Brian Cornell

3. Delivering Ease, Reliability, and Rewards

Investments in infrastructure and loyalty programs aim to cement Target’s reputation for convenience:

  • Store Expansion and Remodels: Over 300 new stores will open in the next decade, with 20 large-format locations slated for 2025. Remodels will enhance in-store experiences while supporting efficient fulfillment.

  • Supply Chain ModernizationAI-powered inventory systems will reduce out-of-stocks, and new delivery solutions (leveraging Shipt and store hubs) will accelerate shipping.

  • Target Circle 360 Perks: After adding 13 million members in 2024, the loyalty program will introduce travel benefits via a Marriott Bonvoy partnership and aim to triple its premium membership base in three years.

  • Same-Day ServicesDrive Up, Order Pickup, and Same-Day Delivery (Target’s fastest-growing channel in 2024) will see usability upgrades to boost adoption.

The Road Ahead

Target’s strategy balances immediate wins—like chef collaborations and beauty launches—with long-term bets on AI, marketplace growth, and supply chain resilience. By blending affordability with experiential retail, the retailer aims to stay ahead in a competitive landscape where consumers demand value and novelty.

“Shoppers continue to seek differentiated options and distinctive shopping experiences without sacrificing value.” — Brian Cornell