For the eighth week in a row, Target’s foot traffic has dropped nationwide. This streak began only a few days after the retailer announced in January that it was ceasing its diversity, equity, and inclusion program.
In January, President Trump ordered federal investigations into private entities for “illegal” DEI programs. Since then, numerous companies including Target have backed away from diversity efforts. Costco has resisted pressure to end those efforts and has seen foot traffic increase for the thirteenth consecutive week.
Along with decreasing sales, Target is facing lawsuits and boycotts related to its pivot away from DEI, with more planned in the near future.
"We remain focused on driving our business by creating a sense of belonging for our team, guests and communities through a commitment to inclusion," said Target’s Chief Community Impact and Equity Officer Kiera Fernandez in late January.
With a 40-day boycott scheduled to end on April 20, Easter Sunday, it remains to be seen if the decline in foot traffic will continue.