Stephanie Dennis

I know I’m not the only woman out there who feels this way. When I walk in, take in the fluorescent lighting, red walls and white floors, I know I’m in my happy place.

Where else can you buy a gorgeous blouse, luxurious quilts and house ware items, designer fragrances as well stock up on favorite foods, all at affordable prices?

No, this is not a PR piece for a popular company, but I don’t think I’m alone in these feelings and I want to break down where this comes from.

Ladies love Target. It’s just a fact. I can’t pinpoint a specific reason why, but here are a few that myself and other females surveyed agreed upon:

The Prices

When you go in Target, cost typically isn’t an issue.  Everything is pretty reasonably priced (with the exception of some big ticket items like television sets). They run regular sales, which keeping customers coming back “expecting more” and “paying less.”

This August, Target beat out the Rollback king in low prices. Their prices were cheaper than Walmart by .46 percent, according to a study by Bloomberg.

Don’t get me wrong- designer items and splurging once in a while is great. But when I need a new pair of sunglasses, I love paying less than $15. When I want to pick up some throw pillows, it’s nice to find some compareable to high-end at a lower price of $9.99.

Convenience

I love one-stop shops. That’s why I like the mall. Target takes that service to the next level.

Not only can you buy shoes and clothing, you can also find a variety of other things. I can pick up tooth paste and a cute top, holiday decorations, Milano cookies and leggings- all the best things in one place.

Customer service isn’t bad either. Typically, lines aren’t too long and you aren’t left waiting. The store is easy to navigate around, and set up to make shopping easy.

Target Image and Atmosphere

Target has an image for doing great things. They keep up good PR and their stores are usually clean and welcoming. Their website states, “Every time we open our doors, we continue a commitment that’s been growing since 1946: a brighter future for our team members, our communities and the world we live in.”

The company, like many, believes in corporate responsibility, giving 5% of profits to strengthen their surrounding communities.

Some people I asked said that their favorite part about the store is the smell (I have to agree, can’t really pinpoint the elements of the aroma, but it’s something great). They also appreciate the décor and seasonal spirit the store takes on.

One of my personal favorite elements of Target, however, is the commercials. The creativity behind them is right on. Whether it’s for back to school, or the holidays, Target knows good marketing.

I love that the commercials are accompanied by great music. Never once have I seen a Target commercial that left me covering my ears in annoyance. Their campaigns are organized and consistent and appeal to the consumers’ senses.

This is not a PR piece for Target as a company. As a journalist, I usually remain fair and balanced. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes I stop in stores like Kmart or Meijer and find great things. But I have to say, there’s something about that red and white bull’s eye that keeps me coming back for more.