MINNEAPOLIS — Target Corp. is launching a new promotional event designed to alleviate the financial and logistical stress of back-to-school shopping. Dubbed “Back-to-School-idays,” the weeklong campaign will run from July 27 through August 2 and feature up to 30% off popular school-related items, along with in-store experiences designed to inject fun and personalization into the annual retail ritual.
“Getting ready for a new school year should be an exciting time for families,” said Rick Gomez, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Target. “That’s why I’m proud of the way the Target team has leaned in to create an experience that’s fun, stylish and affordable.”
The initiative comes at a time when families are increasingly focused on budget-conscious shopping amid lingering economic uncertainty and inflationary pressures. With more than 1,000 items priced under $5 — including $0.25 crayons and glue sticks, $2 water bottles and $5 headphones — Target aims to position itself as a one-stop destination for families looking to stretch their dollars.
A Focus on Value and Essentials
Among the top deals promoted during the “Back-to-School-idays” event are:
- 25% off select kids’ apparel, including uniforms, activewear, and basics
- 30% off kids’ shoes and backpacks from in-house brands All in Motion and Cat & Jack
- 20% off lunch essentials from Bentgo and Thermos
- 20% off Hanes socks and underwear
- Buy one, get one 25% off BIC and Pilot school supplies for Target Circle members
- A $15 Target GiftCard when shoppers spend $50 on select home care and school essentials
Target is also holding 2024 prices on its list of 20 must-have school supplies, which total less than $20, as well as on its top-selling $5 backpack from last year.
Back-to-School, Customized
In a bid to differentiate the in-store experience, Target is expanding its popular personalization stations — a service that lets customers customize items like backpacks, lunchboxes and towels with embroidery, patches and more. Following strong demand in 2024, the events will double in footprint to nearly 500 stores this year.
Target will host 100 college-themed events on July 26 and another 400 focused on general back-to-school style on August 2–3. Attendees can expect giveaways such as shoelace kits, monogrammed bath wraps and school-themed patches. Select locations will also offer tech demonstrations featuring the latest Heyday headphones and curated playlists.
Loyalty Programs and Seasonal Perks
The promotion is being amplified through Target Circle, the retailer’s free-to-join loyalty platform, and Target Circle 360, its paid membership program.
Teachers and college students who verify their status through Target Circle are eligible for a one-time 20% discount on storewide purchases — teachers from July 20 through August 30, and students until September 27. Additionally, both groups can join Target Circle 360 at a 50% discount through September 13. The membership includes benefits like unlimited same-day delivery via Shipt, early access to brand collaborations, and monthly Freebies.
Target will also participate in all state tax-free weekends, offering further seasonal savings to back-to-school shoppers. And for added convenience, the retailer is promoting its suite of fulfillment options, including Drive Up, Order Pickup and same-day delivery.
Competitive Positioning
The “Back-to-School-idays” campaign underscores Target’s broader strategy to drive traffic and loyalty through value pricing, exclusive promotions, and omnichannel convenience. As mass retailers brace for an increasingly competitive back-to-school season, Target is leveraging its private brands, loyalty ecosystem, and curated store experiences to stand out.
By combining low prices with style, personalization and seamless shopping options, Target says it is seeking to transform what has traditionally been a chore for families into a moment of excitement and brand engagement.
