Target, a popular retail chain, has announced the closure of nine stores across four states. The decision comes as the company battles with increasing theft and organized retail crime.

Despite efforts to enhance security measures, such as hiring more security team members, utilizing third-party guard services, and implementing theft-deterrent tools, the challenges with crime have persisted.

Affected Markets and Remaining Stores

Below are the markets where the stores will be closed, along with the remaining stores and employment data:

New York City:

• Harlem: 517 E 117th St.
  • Remaining stores: 96
  • Number of team members: Over 20,000

Seattle:

• University Way: 4535 University Way NE
• Ballard: 1448 NW Market St., Ste. 100
  • Remaining stores: 22
  • Number of team members: Nearly 4,000

San Francisco/Oakland:

• SF Folsom: 1690 Folsom St.
• Oakland Broadway: 2650 Broadway
• Pittsburg: 4301 Century Blvd.
  • Remaining stores: 32
  • Number of team members: Over 6,400

Portland:

• Galleria: 939 SW Morrison St.
• Powell: 3031 SE Powell Blvd.
• Hollywood: 4030 NE Halsey St.
  • Remaining stores: 15
  • Number of team members: More than 2,500

In total, over 150 stores will continue to operate in these regions.

Target’s Efforts to Combat Crime

To address the ongoing issue of theft, Target is taking various measures to boost security. These include locking cases for certain merchandise and collaborating with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations division.

However, Target recognizes that solving this issue requires collective efforts and stated, “While we will continue to make meaningful investments throughout our business, we cannot solve this issue on our own.”

Target remains committed to providing a safe and enjoyable shopping experience for its customers and will continue to work towards mitigating the impact of organized retail crime.