Target Adds Customer Interaction to Employee Reviews to Revive Sales (TGT)

Target Corp. (TGT) is making customer interactions a formal metric in store-staff performance reviews, according to people familiar with the matter. The move, announced May 27, 2026, is part of a broader push by new CEO Michael Fiddelke to reverse a prolonged sales slump by improving the in-store experience. More than 300,000 employees have completed training focused on friendlier service and easier shopping. Store workers are now instructed to smile, make eye contact, and greet customers within 10 feet, and offer help within 4 feet. The initiative comes as Target grapples with frequent out-of-stock complaints and sluggish traffic. The Minneapolis-based retailer also plans to open over 30 new stores and remodel more than 130 existing locations this year. Other recent changes include a standardized uniform of plain red tops with blue jeans or khakis to unify the brand image. Fiddelke told analysts last week that cutting wait times, improving inventory, and staff interactions are top priorities.