MINNEAPOLIS — Target Corp. is piloting a new smart lock system for store shelves, following in the footsteps of Walmart, as the retailer seeks to combat theft while enhancing convenience for customers and staff.
The technology allows locked cases to be remotely opened via smartphone, potentially eliminating the need for physical keys. Target’s Chief Stores Officer, Adrienne Costanzo, shared details of the initiative during an internal staff meeting on Thursday, noting that employees, as well as potentially Shipt shoppers and Target Circle 360 members, may soon gain access to the feature.
The company is actively testing the tool now, Costanzo said in the meeting, according to a recording reviewed by Bloomberg News.
The move comes amid a broader industry response to rising retail theft, which has prompted many stores to secure high-theft items, frustrating customers and slowing down service. While the practice can deter theft, it often creates bottlenecks in the shopping experience.
Walmart has already begun testing similar innovative locking systems and has discussed offering access to its Walmart+ members, as previously reported by Bloomberg.
Target executives have stated that efforts to reduce shrinkage, losses from theft, damage, or error, are beginning to pay off. The new tech pilot is designed to strike a balance between loss prevention and customer satisfaction.
