(Photo Credit: Target)

Target’s Marketing Strategies

Going into Target for a quick “Target run” and coming out with a shopping cart full of stuff is a long-running joke on social media. But how does the retail giant lure customers into spending more? Business Insider shared some of Target’s tricks for encouraging shoppers to load up on the fun, frivolous items.

“The internet is awash with memes and tweets joking about how impossible it is to leave a Target store without a full basket,” Business Insider reports. “But this doesn’t happen by chance. Target has a cult following of fans, including Beyoncé, who are lured into buying more than they plan on thanks to clever marketing, strategic positioning of products in stores, and the treasure hunt-like experience of shopping there.”

Target’s strategies include making departments easy to spot with bright red overhead signs, and having a well-stocked “seasonal section” that provides just what customers are looking for when it comes to upcoming holidays and events. Target has also had great success with its “private label” clothing brands.

“These products are a way to differentiate Target and boost profit margins while still being able to offer customers affordable prices. They are a big asset in driving traffic to stores, and given that they are cheaper than other well-known brands, customers are likely to buy more,” Business Insider reports. “The strategy seems to be working — in just over a year, sales at its kids’ apparel brand, Cat & Jack, surpassed $2 billion. Overall, private label now makes up around one-third of its total sales, according to Morningstar.”

Target run and done? Not so fast. Be careful, or your bill might be much higher than you anticipated!