If imitation really is the most sincere form of flattery, Walmart should be flattered. This week, Target, the number two discount retailer, introduces The Great Save, a section within Target stores with club warehouse-like bulk products and attractive prices (think Walmart’s sister store, Sam’s Club), but without the membership fees.
Bulk-packaged items in The Great Save will primarily be basic household necessities and grocery items such as paper towels, granola bars, bath towels and t-shirts. For example, Target stores now carry 24-packs of Market Pantry water for $3.99. According to a Target news release, The Great Save will have 35-packs of Market Pantry water for $3.59, offering consumers a savings of about 40 percent.
Further piggybacking off the Sam’s Club and Costco model, Target’s The Big Save will also feature treasure hunt deals--surprising items outside the typical realm of basic household items such as designer brands and high-end jewelry--amidst the super-sized household items (a customary surprise impulse shopping tactic at most warehouse club stores).
The designer brands will include home décor and apparel. They will be available while supplies last, but only approximately 60 percent (about 1,000) of Target stores will feature treasure hunt deals inside The Great Save section.
“This event is a fresh, innovative approach to meeting our guests’ evolving needs and providing them with the opportunity to save even more at Target,” said Kathee Tesija, Target executive vice president in a news release.
During the recession, most consumers have focused on basic necessities, eliminating extras such as clothing and home accessories, causing Target’s profits to diminish, according to a Reuter’s report.
"As we round the corner here post holiday, our guests are looking for ways to get back to everyday life, to stock up on the basics that they use all the time," said Tesija in a Reuter’s report.
The Great Save brings the focus back to the basics.
Products offered through The Great Save are limited in quantity and may vary by store location.
The Great Save event started Jan. 3 in Target’s 1,740 stores nationwide and will run through Feb. 21.
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