Target confirmed today that there are plans in the making to implement mini Apple stores in 25 stores across the United States. The plans are expected to begin in mid spring. One important piece of information that we didn’t expect to learn was that these plans aren’t permanent – well at least not one involving Apple. The initiative will involve multiple stores, offering their merchandise for a limited time. This is done as a way of promoting that store, but more importantly to put more money in Target’s pockets. The other stores involved will be a lot smaller than Apple, at least in the beginning of the plans.
Reuters reported that Target is getting “special displays of Apple Inc. merchandise,” as part of a new effort called “the Shops of Target,” which the company unveiled today. (CNET)
Some of the stores involved in the plans include The Candy Store and Polka Dog Bakery just to name a few. These stores will create limited edition items exclusive to these boutique Target stores. The stores will be in the form of enlarged kiosks, not necessarily stores within stores like in Wal-Mart or Starbucks in some Target stores. The sales and products will also be available on Target’s website. The Apple aspect of this plan isn’t a far stretch. Rumors of the store selling iPhones storewide has been a long rumored, something we must reiterate will not change for the time being. Target will not carry the iPhone storewide, even with these plans.
Target Corp (TGT.N), known to many U.S. shoppers as the place to go for trendy, low-priced merchandise, will soon have shops within its discount stores selling everything from dog treats to high-end home accessories.
Target also confirmed during a presentation on Thursday that it will have 25 stores featuring special displays of Apple Inc (AAPL.O) merchandise, a move that had been speculated about last week. (Reuters)