Question

Describe some of Target Corporation's e-commerce activities as you see them

Based on your research and knowledge of Target Corporation's products, services, customers, and markets, briefly describe the company’s supply chain.

Answer 1

Target Corporation has re-designed its e-commerce website with a focus on multi-channel expansion giving an in-store experience with a user-friendly and digital platform. They created an online environment for the users that is more reliable and convenient to use. They included the feature of personalization wherein customers get product recommendations based on their search options, integrated community features, enhanced registries and lists and social media networking integration. They have included bold graphics and playful pictures on the website which attracts the guest users. They provide with an option of expert advice and buying guides on their website which is a unique feature. They provide an improved and advanced search and easy navigation, clear and consistent product information, safe and secure operations, easy and friendly user service with streamlined cart, payment and checkout options.

Target is adopting new methods of the supply chain that is helping its inventory to replenish faster and require less space to store the merchandise and keep the stores stocked and shelves full for efficient operations. They send smaller and more frequent merchandise to the stores instead of sending stock in bulk. This minimizes the time between order and delivery. They open small-format stores in urban and suburban areas to provide customers with what they shop for regularly making the optimum use for the storage space and floor space.

To manage inventory storage in the less space they focus on being fast and flexible. Instead of storing and piling inventory that can be required in long term they have opted to keep immediately required inventory and an option of getting the inventory that is not stored quickly from the warehouses nearby. This helps them to manage the online transactions also as they can fulfil the orders from merchandise available in store nearest to the customer's delivery location thus saving time and transportation cost. The inventory that is taken out from inventory stores is restocked again quickly helping them a continuous supply to their in-store as well as online customers.