Target Unveils $15 Billion Sales Growth Strategy: Analysts Cut Forecasts, Say Plan Appears Difficult Given Consumer, Tariff Concerns

Shares of Target Corp TGT tanked in early trading on Wednesday, after the company announced its sales growth strategy.

Here are some key analyst takeaways.

Roth Capital Partners On Target

Analyst Bill Kirk maintained a Neutral rating, while slashing the price target from $131 to $122.

Target announced a five-year plan to grow its sales above $15 billion, expand its operating margins and deliver mid-single-digit to high-single-digit earnings growth, Kirk said in a note. Given the tougher prior year comps, along with consumer and tariff woes, "the needed acceleration off 1Q is difficult," he added.

"Usually, a five-year plan, detailing all the best projects, is more ambitious, and would more confidently project market share gains," the analyst wrote. The company is in a "delicate position" and its revenue plan "includes the possibility of no share gains."

Check out other analyst stock ratings.

Telsey Advisory Group On Target

Analyst Joseph Feldman reiterated an Outperform rating, while reducing the price target from $150 to $145.

As part of its new plan, Target aims to open around 300 stores over the next ten years, including about 20 full-size stores in 2025, Feldman said. Apart from new openings, the plan is focused on "undertaking remodels, introducing newness in merchandising, leveraging digital capabilities, growing its Roundel media businesses, and enhancing its supply chain and operations," he added.

These actions could support Target's long-term sales and earnings growth targets, Feldman stated. "We believe Target is managing the business well, although we understand the near-term trends remain challenging due to uncertain consumer spending trends and US government policies."

Goldman Sachs On Target

Analyst Kate McShane reaffirmed a Buy rating, while revising the price target to $142.

While Target reported a fourth-quarter beat, it announced lower-than-expected full-year revenue line guidance, McShane said. The company may have kept its guidance conservative, "given uncertainty around the consumer and tariffs."

"The company plans to continue growing share through its robust product assortment and omnichannel capabilities," the analyst wrote. Target achieved its goal of over $2 billion in savings in the last two years and plans to "make these efforts an ongoing mindset across the business," McShane further stated.

TGT Price Action: Shares of Target had declined by1.34% to $115.57 at the time of publication on Wednesday.

Read More:  Tariffs Cast A Shadow Over Best Buy, Target: Could This Be A Buying Opportunity?

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