Copyright syracuse.com

Target is cutting prices on 3,000 items heading into the holiday season. The retailer shared the news in a press release on Nov. 11, noting that it will be lowering prices on food, beverages, baby items, and household essentials. “These price reductions are designed to make everyday shopping more affordable through the holiday season,” wrote the retailer. Lisa Roath, Target’s executive vice president and chief merchandising officer of food, essentials, and beauty, highlighted the company’s quick action in a statement. “I’m proud of the way our team moved quickly to lower prices on thousands of items our guests need most. It’s important work that will make a difference for families managing tight household budgets during the holidays,” she said. Target has not provided a list of the items receiving a reduction. However, the retailer did provide a sampling of items that have been or will be marked down to USA Today. Some of the reduced items include: Kraft Mac & Cheese 11 oz: Now $1.69 (was $1.99) Gerber Kids Snacks: Now $2.99 (was $3.49) Market Pantry Hickory Smoked Spiral-Cut Bone-In-Ham price per pound: Now $1.49 (was $2.49/lb) Pillsbury Pie Crust: Now $3.19 (was $4.59) Good and Gather Honeycrisp Apples, 3lb bag: Now $5.99 (was $6.99) Good and Gather Pure Almond Extract (1 oz): Now $1.59 (was $3.99) Up & Up Cold & Flu 12 oz: Now $6.59 (was $9.19) Munchkin Sippy Cup 9oz, 2 pack: Now $5.79 (was $7.99) Sudafed 36-tablet pack: Now $12.99 (was $16.99) CeraVe Face Cleanser: Now $13.69 (was $16.99) Target also told the outlet that the price reductions started earlier this month and will continue through December. Additionally, the retailer plugged its complete Thanksgiving meal for four people, which is priced at less than $5 per person. This pricing strategy is being implemented alongside a new initiative to enhance the customer experience. Target recently rolled out a “10-4 policy,” requiring employees to be friendlier and smile more at customers. Chief Stores Officer Adrienne Costanzo told Bloomberg News that these new changes were timed specifically for the holiday rush. “Heading into the holiday, we’re making adjustments and implementing new ways to increase connection during the most important time of the year,” she said. These efforts come as Target faces a challenging business climate, having seen sales dip in recent years. The retailer also experienced significant backlash and boycotts this year following the elimination of some of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.