Shoppers in disbelief as Target fills aisles with Kmart items—find out why people are upset!

The Australian retail landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, and for many loyal customers, the changes are hitting close to home.

The recent sight of Kmart's Anko products on the shelves of Target stores has sparked a wave of nostalgia and disappointment among shoppers who have long cherished each brand's unique offerings.

As the two retail giants merge, emotions are running high, with some customers expressing their dismay on social media.


The merger, announced by Wesfarmers in July 2023, is a strategic move to create a dual-brand retail powerhouse with a combined worth of $10 billion.

While the merger is primarily focused on streamlining internal management and back-end support for both retailers, the impact on the shop floor is becoming increasingly visible.

In Queensland, a mum and content creator named Tenielle captured the stark reality of the transition on social media, showing her local Target's shelves stripped bare in preparation for the arrival of Kmart's Anko products.


Screenshot 2024-01-09 114505.png
An Aussie mum was devastated seeing her local Target store empty, while being prepared to stock Kmart’s Anko products. Image: TikTok/@tenbunny


The video, which revealed the 'sad' scenes, resonated with many who felt a sense of loss over the change.

A news source confirmed that from February 2024, Target will begin stocking select Anko products.

‘While we are confident customers will like the curation of products, like always, we will continue to test and learn in response to customer feedback,’ a Target spokesperson said.


The reaction online has been mixed, with some customers mourning the loss of brands like Wet n Wild makeup and Chi Chi.

Others, however, are trying to offer reassurance. People claiming to be Target employees have taken to social media to clarify that the stores are not becoming one entity but will incorporate Anko products in specific sections such as homewares, stationery, pet, and baby.

Despite these assurances, the emotional attachment to Target's unique identity is evident. For decades, Target has been a staple in the Australian retail market, known for its quality clothing, accessories, and home goods.

The introduction of Kmart's Anko brand into Target stores represents a shift that some customers are struggling to embrace.

While the physical presence of the stores is intended to remain largely unchanged, with only some premises switching brands, the blending of product lines is a clear indication that the retail experience for customers will evolve.


As the transition continues, it's important for shoppers to voice their opinions and for the companies to listen.

The success of this merger will depend on the ability of Wesfarmers to maintain the loyalty of its customer base while navigating the complexities of combining two beloved brands.

For those feeling the impact of these changes, it's a reminder that the retail world is ever-evolving. While change can be challenging, it also brings new opportunities.

Perhaps the integration of Anko products will introduce Target customers to new favorites, even as they bid farewell to some cherished aspects of the shopping experience they've known.

You can watch Tenielle’s full video below:


Source: TikTok/@tenbunny​


Key Takeaways
  • Target shelves are being cleared to make room for Kmart's Anko products, leaving some shoppers disappointed.
  • Target will begin stocking select Anko products starting from February 2024 following the announcement of the merger between Kmart and Target in July 2023.
  • Shoppers have expressed their sadness online, with some not being aware of the merger and upset by the reduction in Target's product range.
  • Although the two brands are merging, Wesfarmers has confirmed that Target and Kmart will continue to operate as separate store fronts, with some Target employees providing reassurance that only certain sections of the stores will stock Anko products.

If you've visited a Target store recently and noticed the changes, we'd love to hear your thoughts.

Are you excited about the new products, or do you share the sentiment of those who are nostalgic for the Target of old? Share your stories and let's navigate this retail evolution!
 
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Same happened to Dubbo. I went to K-Mart once. Could not abide this nonsense of having to line up in the middle of the shop to pay for goods then line up at the door to prove that I paid for them. Never been there since & have no intention of going ever again. I used to shop regularly at Target because I found the quality & price to be good but K-Mart quality is really poor. Back to the sewing machine to make more of my own clothes - including underwear which I can make better & cheaper than K-Mart.
I’m trying to find the inspiration to start sewing again Elaine mainly because I have a large cupboard stuffed full of fabric that I really love. I simply love fabric. I’ve never made underwear though, is it difficult? The quality in a lot of undies has vanished regardless of what you pay for it.
 
We have Target & Kmart in Launceston but I rarely shop at either these days and if I want a book or lego etc I get it delivered to save going into the store. I get free delivery with my OnePass subscription.
Me too
 
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