Target to close for Thanksgiving: ‘This isn’t a year for crowds’

Target said Monday it will close stores on Thanksgiving to limit crowds on the typically busy shopping day across the U.S. 

“This year more than ever, a joyful holiday will be inseparable from a safe one, and we’re continuing to adjust our plans to deliver ease, value and the joy of the season in a way that only Target can,” Target CEO Brian Cornell said in an announcement Monday about the Thanksgiving closure. 

The retailer said instead it will plan on slashing prices on items in stores and online starting in October. 

Thanksgiving Day usually kicks off Black Friday sales, which are typically when stores, including Target, list some of their lowest prices for items and draw in large crowds.

Target’s decision follows the one made by its competitor Walmart last week to keep stores shut on Thanksgiving. Walmart’s decision will include Sam’s Club stores.