Inside Target’s AI-First Retail Operating Model
January 30, 2026
How Target is embedding generative AI across stores, merchandising, and
Global Markets | Feb 09, 2025
Eurozone retail sales declined by 0.2% in December, hindered by weak consumer confidence. In the US, consumer confidence dropped in January due to employment concerns, while inflation remains on track at 2%.
Eurozone retail sales fell by 0.2% month-on-month in December, continuing a decline from a recent September peak. Weak consumer confidence is getting in the way of a solid rebound in retail sales despite improving purchasing power, per ING Bank.
US consumer confidence fell in January for the first time in six months. Sentiment fell 4% month-on-month from December and 10% from a year ago, per the University of Michigan Surveys of Consumers. The Conference Board reported that January consumer confidence fell 5.4% from December. The biggest impact on sentiment was employment concerns.
US inflation remains on track for 2% for now with the PCE (personal consumer expenditure) deflator and employment cost index offering further signs of encouragement.
US January job creation had fewer than feared downward revisions to historical data, which have cemented expectations that the Fed will not be cutting rates any time soon.
Markets
How Target is embedding generative AI across stores, merchandising, and
As experimentation fades, AI is being wired into the core
Top-line growth is forecast to slow due to fragile demand,
Disciplined product curation, premium stores, and accessible pricing are driving
Mid tier brands are outperforming both luxury and most fashion
Brands face pressure to shore up profits and rethink strategies
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