Target To Close 9 Stores Due To 'Theft And Organized Retail Crime'

MINNEAPOLIS — Target will close nine stores across four states next month because of overwhelming theft and crime at those locations, the Minneapolis-based retail giant said Tuesday.

"We cannot continue operating these stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of our team and guests, and contributing to unsustainable business performance," the company said in a statement.

"We know that our stores serve an important role in their communities, but we can only be successful if the working and shopping environment is safe for all."

The stores that are closing are located in New York City, Seattle, Portland, and the San Francisco area. All nine locations will be shuttered on Oct. 21.

Before making the "difficult decision," Target officials said they invested heavily in strategies to prevent and stop theft and organized retail crime in our stores, such as:

• Adding more security team members
• Using third-party guard services
• Implementing theft-deterrent tools across our business

"Despite our efforts, unfortunately, we continue to face fundamental challenges to operating these stores safely and successfully," the company said.

Target said it remains committed to serving customers in its over 150 other locations and will partner with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to combat retail theft.