What does target do for a living?

Each year, we strengthen our communities by giving 5% of our profits back in cash, products, and through the Target Foundation. Our volunteers serve nearly 1 million hours in their communities each year. Fortune recognized Target as No. 2 on its 2023 list of Best Large Workplaces in Retail. Learn about Target’s mission, commitments, and history.

Is target a private company?

The company is one of the largest American-owned private employers in the United States. The corporation was founded in Minneapolis by businessman George Dayton in 1902, and developed through the years via expansion and acquisitions. Target, the company's first discount store and eventual namesake, was opened in 1962.

When did target start?

Banker and real estate investor George Draper Dayton incorporated Target in 1902 as Goodfellow Dry Goods. The following year the name was changed to Dayton Dry Goods Company and shortened to Dayton Company in 1911. On May 1, 1962, Dayton Company opened its first Target store, designed as a discount version of Dayton’s department stores.