Target Will Role Out Mini Stores In May

Target has been making designer fashion affordable for 12 years now. The company’s newest line, coming up in February, will feature Jason Wu, who is best known for making Michelle Obama’s inaugural dress, as well as other apparel for the First Lady. While many of these fashion endeavors have been good enterprise, Target has kept busy thinking up new strategies to reach consumers.

While Target has decided creating partnerships with fashion designers is a still a viable part of the future, the company has prepared a very different set of partnerships to be rolled out in a few months. Beginning on May 6 Target will test the idea of a mini-shop, that is, the introduction of boutique products into Target spaces. Initially, products to be tested at Target stores and online include items from San Francisco’s The Candy Shop, Connecticut’s The Privet House, Miami’s The Webster House, Boston’s Polka Dog Bakery, and Aspen’s The Cos Bar. Products will range from candy to furniture, and from cosmetics to dog treats.

The shops will each be open for six weeks and then close. According to USA Today, another set of shops will appear in the fall. If this works, it will be a big deal for the shop owners, who are known for being independent retailers without national exposure. Selling items in 1,800 stores and on Target’s website will bring business to the companies as well as the Target franchise. Sounds like a win-win deal. In fact, go ahead and add a third win for consumers, too.

Remember: just like Target’s designer clothing lines, there will only be a limited amount of products made. So if you eye something you would really like, be sure to buy early!