Target Unveils Target Circle 360: A Paid Loyalty Program To Compete With Amazon Prime And Walmart+

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Target has announced the expansion of its loyalty program, Target Circle, alongside the introduction of a new paid membership service called Target Circle 360, slated to launch on April 7. Priced at $99 annually, with a promotional offer of $49 for the first year, Target Circle 360 aims to compete with similar programs from retail rivals like Amazon Prime and Walmart+. Offering perks such as same-day delivery and extended return windows, Target's initiative seeks to enhance the shopping experience for its customers and keep pace with industry competitors.

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Target has recently unveiled plans to expand its popular loyalty program, Target Circle, and introduce a new paid membership program named Target Circle 360, scheduled to launch on April 7. This move is a strategic response to keep pace with competitors like Amazon and Walmart in the increasingly competitive retail landscape.

Target Circle 360 Overview:

Target Circle 360 is set to be a comprehensive subscription service, offering enhanced benefits beyond the existing Target Circle loyalty program. For an annual fee of $99, members will gain access to a variety of perks, including same-day delivery for unlimited orders over $35, free two-day shipping, and an additional 30 days for returns. The subscription fee is discounted to $49 for the first year as a special promotional offer available from April 7 to May 18.

Target Circle Comparison with Competitors:

1. Amazon Prime:

• Cost: Amazon Prime membership is priced at $14.99 per month or $139 annually.
• Benefits: Members enjoy free same-day or two-day delivery, free returns on eligible orders, exclusive deals on groceries from Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market Stores, unlimited food deliveries with a Grubhub+ trial membership, and savings on prescriptions with Amazon’s Pharmacy RxPass.
• Established in February 2005.

2. Walmart+:

• Cost: Walmart+ membership is priced at $12.95 per month or $98 annually.
• Benefits: Members receive free delivery from a local grocery store on orders over $35, fuel discounts at select gas stations, and video streaming with a Paramount+ essential plan.
• Introduced in 2020, with no commitment and cancelation at any time.

Unique Features of Target Circle 360:

Target's new offering aims to differentiate itself with features like same-day delivery in as little as one hour for orders over $35, service from the Shipt marketplace facilitating same-day deliveries from various retailers, and a more extensive return window. Target Circle 360 builds on the success of the existing Target Circle program, which has amassed 100 million members since its launch in 2019.

Conclusion:

​As Target enters the subscription service arena with Target Circle 360, it seeks to carve a niche by providing a combination of convenience, exclusive benefits, and competitive pricing. The special launch offer and the integration of services like same-day delivery make Target's membership program an enticing option for customers seeking a comprehensive shopping experience. The success of Target Circle 360 will ultimately hinge on its ability to meet and exceed customer expectations in comparison to the established programs offered by Amazon and Walmart.