“The investments we’ve made in our business and our incredible team have enabled us to move with flexibility and speed to meet guests’ changing needs during this global pandemic,” Target CEO Brian Cornell said in a statement.
“This year more than ever, a joyful holiday will be inseparable from a safe one, and we’re continuing to adjust our plans to deliver ease, value and the joy of the season in a way that only Target can.”
‘Stretching out the savings’
Target also said it will make more than 20,000 additional products available for pickup and delivery, including fresh and frozen groceries.
While stores will be closed on Thanksgiving, Target said shoppers will have plenty of opportunities to score great deals on merchandise. The retailer said it's "stretching out the savings" starting in October for safety reasons and to give shoppers greater flexibility.
"Historically, deal hunting and holiday shopping can mean crowded events, and this isn’t a year for crowds," Target said in its release. "That’s why our biggest holiday deals will be available earlier than ever, so you can shop safely and conveniently without worrying about missing out on deals that usually come later in the season."
Walmart also closing on Thanksgiving
Last week, Walmart announced that it will be closing all of its Walmart and Sam’s Club locations this Thanksgiving to give associates some well-deserved time off.
“We know this has been a trying year, and our associates have stepped up. We hope they will enjoy a special Thanksgiving Day at home with their loved ones,” said John Furner, President and CEO of Walmart U.S. “We are certainly thankful to our people for all of their efforts.”
The decision marked a major departure from the retailer’s previous holiday season schedule. Walmart has not been closed on Thanksgiving Day since the late 1980s.
Dick's Sporting Goods has also announced that its stores and distribution centers will be closed on Thanksgiving due to the coronavirus pandemic.