1. Target CEO to meet Rev. Al Sharpton amid DEI program backlash. 2. Sharpton supports consumer movements urging avoidance of Target. 3. Target halted its DEI targets, causing public outcry and falling store visits. 4. Critics, including Rev. Jamal Bryant, highlight Target's commitment changes since 2020. 5. Meeting could determine Target's future stance on community support.
Target's rollback of DEI programs has resulted in declining consumer interest, evidenced by consecutive weeks of reduced store visits. Similar past actions faced backlash, leading to significant sales impacts for retailers.
The backlash against Target's DEI changes directly relates to customer sentiment and future sales, impacting stock performance immediately. Increased public scrutiny emphasizes the relevance of these issues to Target's market position.
The immediate consumer reaction and potential boycotts indicate rapid impacts on sales and consumer sentiment. Recent historical warnings around short-term declines in traffic support this outlook.