Target takes on Walmart with a risky bet shoppers may not expect

Core Insights - The distinction between value and price is crucial, especially during financially stressful times for consumers, who may prioritize immediate needs over long-term value [1] - Pricing power is identified as a key factor in evaluating a business's strength, with the ability to raise prices without losing customers indicating a robust business model [2] Company Strategy - Target is adopting a strategy that emphasizes value perception rather than competing solely on price, allowing Walmart to maintain its low-price leadership [5] - The new CEO of Target, Michael Fiddelke, emphasizes a design-led approach, focusing on unique and stylish product assortments that provide incredible value, which is central to the company's differentiation and future growth [6] - Target aims to create a shopping experience that is distinctly its own, believing that a unique assortment is essential for maintaining merchandising authority with customers [7]