The parent company of the popular retail chain Target is officially known as Target Corporation.
While the familiar red bullseye logo and the name "Target" continue to define the retail stores we shop in, the corporate entity overseeing these operations underwent a significant name change in the past. Understanding this distinction helps clarify the corporate structure behind one of America's largest retailers.
The Transformation of the Corporate Identity
Prior to its current designation, the corporation behind Target stores operated under a different name. This change was a strategic move to align the corporate identity more closely with its most recognizable and successful brand.
From Dayton-Hudson to Target Corporation
The entity that now oversees all Target retail operations was originally known as the Dayton-Hudson Corporation. This name reflected the company's origins, which included department store chains like Dayton's and Hudson's.
A pivotal moment in the company's history occurred in the year 2000. It was then that the Dayton-Hudson Corporation officially rebranded and adopted its current name, Target Corporation. This renaming solidified the company's focus on its dominant retail brand.
To illustrate this transition, consider the timeline:
| Year | Corporate Name | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Before 2000 | Dayton-Hudson Corporation | Diversified retail, including department stores |
| 2000 - Present | Target Corporation | Primarily the Target discount retail chain |
What Does Target Corporation Do?
As Target Corporation, the company is responsible for the strategic direction, financial management, and operational oversight of all Target retail stores, both brick-and-mortar locations and its robust e-commerce platform, Target.com. This includes everything from product sourcing and supply chain management to marketing, store operations, and employee management. The corporation aims to provide a convenient, stylish, and affordable shopping experience for its guests nationwide.
