When the idea of Target came to mind, it was stated that this new store will combine the best of the fashion world with the best of the discount world, a quality store with quality merchandise at discount prices, and a discount supermarket...75 departments in all. Shopping at this new store will be fun, delightful and welcoming to the entire family. The stores will include wide aisles, easy-to-shop displays, fast checkout and, loads of well-lighted parking.
A man by the name of Stewart K. Widdess was tasked to name and define this new retail store. Widdess and his staff debated more than 200 possible names (Target). In a burst of red-and-white inspiration, they come up with "Target" and immediately envision a classic Bullseye logo. The reasoning behind the choice was, "As a marksman's goal is to hit the center bulls-eye, the new store would do much the same in terms of retail goods, services, commitment to the community, price, value and overall experience" (Target).
On May 1, 1962, Target's first grand opening was in Roseville, Minn. It was marketed as a "new idea in discount stores. Target differentiates itself from other retail stores by combining many of the best department store features, fashion, quality and service, with the low prices of a discounter. Created as, "a store you can be proud to shop in, a store you can have confidence in, a store that is fun to shop and exciting to visit," By the end of 1962, Target opens additional locations in St. Louis Park, Crystal and Duluth, Minnesota (Target).
In the late 1960s, Target expands across the country to the metro areas of St. Louis, Dallas and Houston. The Bullseye logo design is revamped into a more direct, memorable and poignant symbol of the company, what it stands for and offers to all guests everywhere (Target).
In the year of 1969 in Fridley, Minnesota, the corporation opens its first distribution