Target has unveiled a new subscription service called Target Circle 360, priced at $99 annually. This service will provide members with free, unlimited delivery and rush shipping on online orders. Customers will receive free two-day shipping and same-day delivery on orders of $35 and more. The plan is set to launch on April 7, with a promotional price of $49 until May 18.
Target Circle 360 is Target’s latest attempt to compete with similar offerings from Walmart and Amazon. While Target Circle 360 may not be entirely new, as it appears to be a rebranding and upgrade of existing delivery options, it aims to combine the benefits of services like Shipt and free two-day shipping into one comprehensive package.
Target Circle 360 includes access to the Shipt Marketplace, allowing for free delivery from other stores as well. This consolidation of services is a strategic move by Target to streamline its delivery options and increase customer loyalty. For those already subscribed to Shipt, the new $99 plan may not offer significant changes, but the added convenience of no order minimums and access to the Shipt Marketplace could entice more customers to sign up.
Target’s new subscription service comes at a time when the distinction between ecommerce and brick-and-mortar stores is becoming increasingly blurred. By utilizing its network of physical stores and warehouses for online orders, Target is aiming to improve delivery times and customer satisfaction. While it may not be able to directly compete with Amazon Prime’s extensive delivery infrastructure, Target is positioning itself as a viable alternative by offering a similar membership program.
All three major retailers, Target, Walmart, and Amazon, rely on a combination of gig workers and third-party delivery partners like UPS, FedEx, and USPS to fulfill and ship orders. This results in additional labor and shipping costs that need to be managed effectively. Despite the challenges, Target is looking to leverage its existing partnerships and infrastructure to provide a seamless delivery experience for its customers.
By launching Target Circle 360, Target is making a bold move to enhance its delivery services and compete more effectively in the competitive retail landscape. With a focus on convenience, speed, and customer satisfaction, Target aims to attract and retain customers who are looking for a reliable and affordable delivery option for their online orders.
Leave a Reply