Target上调全年销售和调整后盈利指引，二季度同店销售好于预期

Target Corp. lifted its full-year guidance after results outpaced estimates in the latest quarter, suggesting the big-box retailer is moving past a lengthy sales slump.

The company now expects net sales to increase about 5% in the current fiscal year, which ends in early 2027 — a percentage point higher than the previous guidance. Target also raised its adjusted earnings target after second-quarter sales surpassed analyst estimates.

“We’re encouraged by the progress made so far and we’re also clear-eyed about the important work still ahead,” Chief Executive Officer Michael Fiddelke said on a call with reporters.

Target is looking for consistent growth following three years of declining revenue. The results and guidance are likely to boost confidence in Fiddelke’s strategy, which is centered on improving merchandise, technology and the shopping experience.

Comparable sales, which measure results at locations open at least a year, rose 3.8% during the quarter ended Aug. 1, driven by higher traffic. Earnings per share, excluding some items, surpassed the average estimate, in part due to tariff refunds.

Target, which in past decades helped drive the “cheap chic” trend across retail, is seeking to win back shoppers with buzzy products like protein-heavy potato chips and floral-patterned phone cases. It’s an important pivot for the retailer after its inventory’s allure waned in recent years.

The company was hurt by shoppers’ prioritization of groceries and essentials over home goods and clothes, which are traditionally two of Target’s key categories. Political controversies have also weighed on demand, especially after last year’s changes to diversity policies. In the meantime, rivals Walmart Inc. and Costco Wholesale Corp. have gained ground by emphasizing value and upgrading their assortment.

This has led to sweeping changes, including the merchandise overhaul focusing on new, exclusive items as Target seeks to create a treasure-hunt experience. The company, which has more than 2,000 stores, is also working to reduce wait times while improving in-stock levels and interactions with staff.

The strategy has breathed new life into Target’s stock, making it one of retail’s strongest performers this year. The shares have jumped 56% in 2026 through Tuesday’s close, more than four times the advance of the S&P 500 Index over the same period.

Target’s customers are responding to the changes, company executives said on the call, pointing to healthy growth in food, beauty, toys, gadgets and sports categories.

Read More: Target Gives Groceries a Trendy Makeover to Win Back Shoppers

The Minneapolis-based company recently carried out its biggest assortment change to packaged food in more than a decade. Snack sales grew by double digits in the second quarter, with protein and healthier items also performing well.

Target is bringing more changes to the apparel and home categories, which grew slightly in the quarter. It has cut prices of thousands of products and will continue these efforts, executives said.

Walmart, Costco and Kroger Co. are also investingto lower grocery prices to win over shoppers fatigued by a sustained rise in prices.

Retailers are battling an uneven US economic performance. Consumer sentiment dropped for the first time in three months in August on inflation concerns, and the labor market is showing some signs of weakness and slowing wage growth.