Target 2008 Annual Report Download - page 16

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14
Outstanding guest service and reliable execution are hallmarks
of Target stores. Our service standards reflect our Fast, Fun
and Friendly culture, including team members who routinely
ask, “Can I help you find something?” and who are dedicated to
delivering a pleasant shopping environment and fast checkout.
In 2008, our guest research confirmed that we are continuing
to deliver the service our guests have come to expect from
Target. In addition, our centralized approach to operating our
stores increases productivity and efficiency and ensures the
consistency of the experience our guests receive in each of
our stores every day.
Our in-store service is reinforced by our world-class supply
chain. At year-end, we operated 34 distribution centers
across the United States. In addition to the expansion of our
food distribution centers and Target.com fulfillment centers,
in 2009 we will open an additional general merchandise
distribution center in Newton, N.C., serving Target stores in
this growing region.
Integrated Financial Products
Target Financial Services provides guests with exceptional
service and superior financial products, such as our innovative
GiftCards that drive sales and help position Target as the
ultimate gift-giving destination. Through our credit operations,
we offer guests Target REDcard products and services, which
increase guest loyalty to Target. In addition, Target REDcard
holders benefit from a rewards program that provides loyalty
discounts to guests, driving incremental sales in our stores.
Our focus on service is equally balanced with a keen focus on
the execution of our financial services business strategy through
strict compliance with data security and credit regulation, as
well as an ongoing commitment to maintaining acceptable
financial performance. During the course of a very challenging
2008, industry conditions led us to take an even closer look at
ways to improve performance, mitigate risk and redeploy our
capital. In May 2008, we announced a new relationship with
JPMorgan Chase, a proven leader in financial services, resulting
in significant access to their expertise and improvement in our
liquidity. We expect this partnership to continue to pay dividends
during this difficult economic environment and beyond.
Providing unparalleled service to guests requires precise
execution of our strategies, initiatives and daily tasks. Target is
able to deliver on our “Expect More. Pay Less.” strategy because
of our balanced approach to everything we do. Through our
consistent focus on remaining relevant to guests and their
ever-evolving wants and needs, we will continue to reinforce
the Target experience that is our competitive advantage.
Service & Execution