New, Smaller Target Coming to Bethesda's Shops of Wisconsin (ICYMI)

Bethesda, MD — Target’s expansion plans into urban areas across the country will include a new store opening in the existing Shops of Wisconsin space in Bethesda.

The retailer announced plans Thursday to open what the chain calls a flexible-format store in March 2017. Such stores are smaller than the typical suburban Targets, with an emphasis on order pickup and pharmacy services, along with some of the mainstays of the chain.

The new Bethesda flexible-format store will provide a quick-trip shopping experience with a tailored product mix, the company says.

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The store will be about 35,500 square feet and will feature offer a customized assortment, including:

• Men’s, women’s and kids’ apparel and accessories
• Toys and sporting goods
• Fresh, grab-and-go groceries and meal solutions
• A health and beauty assortment
• Curated home assortment, with a focus on décor pieces
• Portable technology accessories

“Target is focusing on expanding into more urban and densely populated city centers,” said Mark Schindele, senior vice president, properties for Target in a news release. “The Bethesda store will be Target’s third flexible-format store to open in the greater Washington, D.C. area, so we’re thrilled to add another location to make quick-trip shopping even more convenient for Maryland guests.”

Target’s closest stores are located at Westfield Wheaton, 11160 Veirs Mill Road, and Montrose Crossing Shopping Center, 5700 Bou Ave. in Rockville.

Flexible-format stores are a priority for Target and guests have responded well to having these customized stores available in areas where they previously couldn’t have been opened before. The company currently operates 19 flexible-format stores and will continue to open additional flexible-format locations, including the 26 stores that have been announced to-date for 2016 and 2017.