5 Worst Thanksgiving Purchases From Target This Season
Written by
Dawn Allcot
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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Target typically combines low prices, convenience and a pleasant shopping experience, with well-merchandised layouts and fun finds — allowing you to have fun while shopping without breaking your budget.
In spite of dropping prices and expanding the selection in its Up&Up line of merchandise, the retailer lagged in the third quarter, falling slightly short of its predicted revenue, according to eMarketer. Additionally, Target is behind top competitor Walmart in one specific area. Walmart has corner the grocery market, with groceries making up 60% of Walmart’s sales versus 23% for Target.
For those planning to do Thanksgiving shopping at Target, there are some grocery products, along with other items, to avoid.
Also see seven of the best Thanksgiving deals at Walmart.
Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider
A staple around the kids’ table at Thanksgiving, Martinelli’s sparkling cider allows children to raise a toast just like the grown-ups — without the alcohol content. It costs $3.79 at Target, but you can get it cheaper at local grocery stores like Safeway, where it’s just $3, or Walmart, where it’s $3.68.
Fresh Produce
Produce at Target typically costs more than at discount grocery stores like Lidl and Aldi. Plus, the selection is limited and the quality tends to be hit-or-miss.
If you’re planning to start your Thanksgiving meal with a salad or serve up sides like Brussels sprouts, asparagus or broccoli, consider shopping elsewhere. Wholesale stores like BJ’s and Costco offer large quantities to feed a crowd, while discount grocers have better prices on smaller servings.
Gingerbread Houses
For many families, Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season and traditions like building gingerbread houses. Target’s Favorite Day pre-built gingerbread house kit costs $18. You can get three kits for less than that at Five Below.
Paper Goods
For families hosting a large crowd, serving Thanksgiving dinner on sturdy, decorative paper plates can help reduce holiday stress and eliminate loads of dirty dishes. Earlier this fall, Target offered some excellent deals in disposable dinnerware, GOBankingRates reported. But stores have already shifted to green-and-red Christmas designs, and Target.com has Turkey Day varieties remaining in limited quantities.
Any Last-Minute Purchases
Forgot the cranberry sauce? It happens. But don’t expect to rush out to Target after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to grab any last-minute items before guests arrive. Target announced that it will close stores on Thanksgiving Day, permitting members to spend time with family and friends.
Orders placed online or via the Target app will be available for pick up on Black Friday, November 29, 2024.
Editor’s note: Pricing and availability may vary depending on location.
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