Target introduces mobile checkout for Black Friday

As the holiday season approaches, retailers are getting more creative with ways to stay competitive. The countdown is officially on towards Black Friday, which many see as the official start to the holiday shopping season. However, Target has made it clear that today, November 1, is the start of its holiday shopping season, as its Black Friday preview sale launches.

Starting today, Target staff at stores across the US will be able to check shoppers out using a handheld mobile device, allowing for speedy, convenient shopping experience. With this feature, shoppers can pay for their items at any spot in the Target store, rather than waiting in a long line at the traditional checkout space. Target plans to strategically place staff members equipped with mobile checkout devices throughout the busiest spots in each store, especially on big shopping days like Black Friday.

The official date of Black Friday is Friday, November 23. However Target is currently offering its “lowest prices of the season” on select items, which are outlined in its Black Friday ad. These prices are the same as shoppers can expect on November 23.

“We know many of our guests look forward to our Black Friday deals every year, and today, they can start shopping and save big on some of the hottest items of the season,” Mark Tritton, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, said in a statement.

The extension of Black Friday sales throughout the whole month of November might help take away the exclusivity from the key shopping day. So to keep that day unique, Target is offering one added bonus for consumers who choose to shop in-store on November 23: a coupon for 20 percent off a future purchase will be awarded to any shopper who spends over 50 dollars.

And for the shoppers who do not wish to enter the busy store on Black Friday, the retailer will offer Drive Up for the first time this year. The free, same-day service allows shoppers to purchase items through the Target app, then drive to the store and have their items brought to their car by Target staff.

photo: Target Newsroom