Coming soon to Target: Gender-free signage

Minneapolis -- Social media may not move mountains (yet!) but its importance to retailers is growing stronger every day. And Target is taking notice.



The retailer announced it plans to start removing gender-based signage in several departments, including toys, bedding and entertainment, making the decision after feedback and suggestions from customers. But critics are saying the move was influenced by an Ohio shopper who tweeted a photo (one tweet!) of a sign at a Green, Ohio, store that read “Building Sets, Girls Building Sets.” (To read the shopper's blog post, click here.)



In a statement on its Bullseye blog, Target said that over the past year, shoppers have raised questions about a handful of signs in its stores that offer product suggestions based on gender, noting that in departments such as like toys, home or entertainment it is not necessary to suggest products by gender.



"We heard you, and we agree," Target stated. "Right now, our teams are working across the store to identify areas where we can phase out gender-based signage to help strike a better balance."



As an example, Target pointed to the kids’ bedding section where signs will no longer feature suggestions for boys or girls, but just kids. In the toys aisles, the retailer is removing reference to gender, including the use of pink, blue, yellow or green paper on the back walls of shelves. The changes will occur over the next few months.



Target noted that gender signage will remain in the areas “where it makes sense,” such as apparel, where there are fit and sizing differences.



The move has provoked discussion on Target's website. While some comments were in praise of the move, others were not so approving. To read the comments, click here.