Target CEO Addresses Sales Slump Amid Pride Month Fallout

Target plans to make adjustments to its merchandising approach for heritage months like Pride Month after facing consumer backlash that impacted sales in the second quarter. The company will have a more focused assortment, evolve its store and digital presentations, and reconsider the mix of its own national brands with external partners. Target CEO Brian Cornell emphasized the importance of meeting customer expectations and maintaining Target as a "happy place." The controversy surrounding the Pride Month assortment, which led to threats against staff and damage to merchandise, negatively affected second quarter sales. Despite a course correction, Target reported a 5.4% decline in comparable sales for the quarter and lowered its full-year profit outlook.