Target’s Losses from Theft Stabilizing, But Violent In-Store Incidents Remain On the Rise
Target (NYSE: TGT) announced on Wednesday that it is seeing signs of stabilization in the losses caused by theft and organized retail crime, following a significant spike in the first half of the year.
The company’s shares surged by 3.5% to $129.40 in afternoon trading after reporting better-than-expected second-quarter profits.
Earlier this year, Target issued a warning about the adverse impact of theft and organized retail crime on its profitability. The company had projected potential losses exceeding $500 million due to this issue, in addition to the $650 million it lost in 2022.
Organized retail crime involves coordinated efforts by gangs of thieves to steal valuable merchandise, such as electronics, cosmetics, and power tools, which are then resold on the black market or online auction sites. This phenomenon has been affecting various retailers, including Walmart and Home Depot, but Target has been particularly vocal due to its urban store concentration and struggles with excess inventory and margins.
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In the second quarter, theft-related losses chipped away nearly 1 percentage point from Target’s margins. Although the company anticipates this trend to persist in the next quarter, it expects some relief as the year progresses.
Target’s CFO, Michael Fiddelke, indicated that while the loss rates might be stabilizing, evidence of a downward trend has not yet emerged. Despite this, the company is maintaining its $500 million inventory-loss forecast for the year.
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The retailer has also faced an increase in violent theft and confrontations, with threats and thefts involving violence rising by 120% in the first five months of the year. Some incidents were linked to Target’s LGBTQ Pride merchandise, prompting the company to collaborate with retail industry groups and communities to enhance the safety of both employees and customers.
Information for this story was found via Reuters, CNBC, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
