Target makes customer service changes shoppers will like

Core Viewpoint - Target has experienced a resurgence in same-store sales after several quarters of decline, although its performance still lags behind competitors like Walmart and Costco [1]. Group 1: In-Store Business Performance - Target's in-store business has struggled but returned to positive same-store sales in the most recent quarter, marking a comeback [1]. - Despite this improvement, Target's sales figures are significantly lower than those of rivals, with Walmart's U.S. comps rising by 4.5-4.6% and Costco's by 5.9-6.6% in comparable periods [8]. Group 2: Leadership and Strategy - Incoming CEO Michael Fiddelke emphasizes the need for meaningful improvements in the in-store experience, discussing these changes during the third-quarter earnings call [2]. - Fiddelke's strategy includes enhancing store operations and increasing associate availability as top priorities [3]. Group 3: Enhancing Guest Experience - Target plans to improve the guest shopping experience by addressing issues such as long cashier lines and self-checkout delays [3]. - The company aims to give employees more time to interact with customers by reducing time spent on backroom tasks through enhanced digital tools [6]. - A new 10-4 policy has been implemented, requiring employees within 10 feet of customers to engage positively through smiles and friendly body language [7].