Target Sees Sales Decline Amid Tariffs, Declining Consumer Confidence

The company’s first-quarter earnings were significantly below Wall Street’s expectations, and its shares dropped sharply.
Target Sees Sales Decline Amid Tariffs, Declining Consumer Confidence
A Target department store in North Miami Beach, Fla., on May 17, 2023. Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Wesley Brown
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After Walmart warned that prices on some everyday items may rise due to tariffs, Target Corp. said on May 21 that it will leverage its global supplier partnerships, disciplined financial management, strong balance sheet, and ample cash to remain competitive on pricing.

Despite those promises, Target CEO Brian Cornell acknowledged during a conference call with Wall Street analysts ahead of the opening bell that the company’s first-quarter performance was broadly disappointing and challenging. Further, he stated that the Minneapolis-based retailer will work diligently to mitigate the impact of tariffs on its customer base, despite the challenges involved.

Wesley Brown
Wesley Brown
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Wesley Brown is a long-time business and public policy reporter based in Arkansas. He has written for many print and digital publications across the country.