By Jheri Hardaway
Staff Writer
Target continues to face significant challenges since the boycott was launched in early 2025 due to its withdrawal from DEI commitments. The ongoing backlash has undoubtedly influenced the recent decision to end its partnership with Ulta Beauty. This collaboration, which is scheduled to conclude by August 2026, marks another significant setback for the retail giant.
Forbes reports that this "breakup is a significant blow to Target, which faces declining sales, foot traffic, and a tarnished reputation." While Ulta is expected to be minimally impacted financially, the disassociation allows them to focus on their core business and international expansion. Ulta prides itself on diversity with shelf space for notable minority-owned brands like Pattern, Fenty, Black Girl Sunscreen, Cecred, Mielle, and many others.
In response to slumping sales, Target is also implementing widespread corporate job cuts. Additional reports indicate that the company will cut 1,800 corporate jobs, with 1,000 layoffs scheduled for next week, as part of an effort to streamline operations. These cuts represent approximately 8% of Target's global corporate workforce, with the majority of affected employees located at the Minneapolis headquarters. It's important to note that store employees and workers in Target's supply chain facilities will not be affected by these job cuts.
Rick Gomez, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Target, has stated his commitment to "offering the beauty experience consumers have come to expect from Target," even amidst these changes. The coming months will undoubtedly be critical as Target navigates these challenges and seeks to regain its footing in the competitive retail landscape with customers more conscious of their spending than ever before.
With tariffs, job layoffs, and an overall stressed economy, holiday season spending looks bleak. Will Target survive? Only time will tell, but the business is indefinitely impacted by its own decisions, and the consequences are tangible.
