Sales begin as Target stores are set to close

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Shoppers hoping for deep discounts were deeply disappointed today, as all 133 Target locations across Canada began liquidation sales. Packed parking lots and long lines gave the day a black friday feel, but customers weren’t sold on the sales.

It was more of a slow march than a stampede when the Barton Street Target opened at 8am.

“I actually didn’t think the sales were that great yet.”

There was similar disappointment from shoppers on Upper James.

“Anything that someone might want is going to be in the 10 percent as opposed to the 30% ”

A hanging trail of liquidation signs boasting up to “30 percent off everything” dangle from store ceilings, most items are marked down 10 to 20.

“What people will find right now is that these prices don’t even match their weekly flyer specials”

DeGroote School of Business’ Mandeep Malik say discounts will eventually deepen. Once the stores finally shut down the local economy will feel the impact.

“Within Hamilton and Burlington alone I think there are 7 stores that Target owns. There are probably more than 1000 employees.”

“Target had employed well over 17-thousand people across Canada and those working in stores are slowly watching their jobs disappear with each item sold. We spoke with one worker who says staff are doing their best to stay positive.”

“We’re just trying to be in good spirits. It’s business as usual until the place is gone.”

Tom Daly still has a smile on his face as he collects shopping carts and helps customers load their purchases.

“I’ve been looking around. Putting the resumes out. It’s kind of frustrating but, a job is a job, you have to have to have one you have to make a living you have to pay bills.”

He says he’ll keep working for Target as long as they need him.