Target buys same-day delivery service Shipt for $550mn

Target Corp has agreed a $550mn deal to acquire Shipt, Inc., a leading online same-day delivery platform.

Target will leverage its network of stores and Shipt’s proprietary technology platform and community of shoppers to quickly and efficiently bring same-day delivery to guests across the country.

The acquisition significantly accelerates Target’s digital fulfillment efforts, bringing same-day delivery services to guests at approximately half of Target stores by early 2018. The service will be offered from the majority of Target stores, and in all major markets, before the 2018 holiday season.

At launch, Target will offer same-day delivery of groceries, essentials, home, electronics and other products, while expanding the products offered over time. By the end of 2019, same-day delivery will include all major product categories at Target.

“We laid out an ambitious strategic agenda in early 2017, which included a focus on giving our guests a number of convenient ways to shop with Target, whether it’s ordering online and picking up in one of our stores, driving up to pick up an order, or taking advantage of services like our new Restock programme,” said John Mulligan, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Target.  

SEE ALSO:

• Kraft Heinz to accelerate supply chain goals through transparency

• Interview: Rating supply chain's leading companies with AT Kearney

• Dicom Systems launches new imaging data supply chain platform, partners with Google Cloud

• Read the December issue of Supply Chain Digital here

“With Shipt’s network of local shoppers and their current market penetration, we will move from days to hours, dramatically accelerating our ability to bring affordable same-day delivery to guests across the country.

“By the 2018 holiday season, we will be servicing every major market across the country with same-day delivery, and Shipt’s service-oriented approach aligns well with Target’s commitment to delivering an exceptional shopping experience for our guests.”

The deal is expected to be rubber-stamped by the end of the year.