Calling all diverse suppliers! Retail giant Target wants your products and services and has many programs underway to encourage, promote, and highlight diversity.

“We work hand-in-hand with our suppliers every step of the way, from the programs we host to explore potential partnerships to the products we proudly offer our guests,” Target’s corporate site states. “Our stores feature assortments of beloved brands personalized for their neighborhoods, and we curate special assortments to celebrate cultural moments and milestones, too.”

Target has made progress so far: Between 2016 and 2018, it increased its business with diverse suppliers by 64.4%, and in 2020, it spent almost $1.5 billion with diverse suppliers.

In addition, Target rolled out a major plan in the Spring of 2021.

TARGET’S SPEND ON BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES

In April 2021, Target Corporation announced its plan to spend more than $2 billion with Black-owned businesses by the end of 2025, highlighting three specific goals:

1. Add products from more than 500 Black-owned businesses;
2. Increase its spend with more Black-owned companies — marketing, construction, facilities maintenance, and more;
3. Establish new resources to support Black-owned companies and help them grow their businesses.

MANY DIVERSE SUPPLIERS HAVE SUCCEEDED WITH TARGET 

There are veteran-owned businesses such as Simplay3 furniture and Maud Borup sweet treats; products from LGBTQ+ founders like Peanut Butter & Co’s peanut butter spreads and powders.

Asian-American-owned brands featured on Target’s shelves include Cocokind, a natural and organic beauty brand that also supports female entrepreneurs; K-Mama, a line of vegan Korean hot sauces; and Sweet Chef, a cruelty-free skincare brand.

Target has deepened its multicultural beauty offerings via companies such as Black Girl Sunscreen, The Honeypot, and Pacinos.

DIVERSE SUPPLIERS: HOW TO APPLY

Target is looking for suppliers that are at least 51% owned, controlled, and operated by women; Black, Indigenous, and People of Color; LGBTQ+; veterans, or persons with disabilities. To get in touch, simply head to the supplier intake form and fill out a brief overview of your company and products.

TARGET TAKEOFF PROGRAM: APPLICATIONS OPEN 

Another interesting program to note is Target Takeoff. This five-week program is “for mature product companies looking to enter retail as their next step of growth and are considering Target. In Takeoff, you’ll learn the secrets for success in Target, collaborate with an incredible team of mentors and end the program pitching to buyers,” according to the program’s page.

Applications are open now through Nov. 14, 2021 for beauty brands only. Other anticipated Takeoff programs in 2022 include: Pets, Food & Beverage, and Baby.

EDI FOR TARGET

If you’re ready to begin your partnership with Target, we can get your EDI up and running. BOLD VAN is a Target-approved EDI vendor, so you don’t have to worry about sifting through pages and pages of EDI requirements. We’ve been there, done that. We know what EDI documents Target needs, and will set up your business accordingly. Additionally, we offer an EDI-compliant shipping module called DES that follows all of Target’s requirements.