MINNEAPOLIS – The Target retail chain , based in Minneapolis, is scaling back in four major markets where the company said organized retail crime and theft became unsurmountable problems. Nine stores are closing effective October 21. Being closed
> New York City: One store in Harlem. Remaining open: 96.
> Seattle: One store in Seattle and one in Ballard. Remaining open: 22.
> San Francisco/Oakland: One store in San Francisco, one in Oakland, and one in Pittsburg. Remaining open: 32.
> Portland: Three stores. Remaining open:15.
Employees have an option to transfer to other locations.
Verbatim
Target, in a corporate statemnt: “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. 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.”