Target is integrating artificial intelligence across its operations to support the company’s growth ambitions, according to Prat Vemana, Target’s Chief Technology Officer. Speaking from the company’s Minneapolis headquarters, Vemana explained that despite concerns surrounding AI’s impact on the workforce, Target does not plan to reduce its tech employees because of automation.
As Target embarks on an extensive turnaround strategy, Vemana stressed the importance of retaining the global tech team. Target employs tech staff not only at its Minnesota headquarters but also in New York, California, Georgia, and through a global capability center in Bangalore, India. Although Target implemented some workforce reductions at its headquarters last year and regional offices more recently to reallocate resources toward store employees, Vemana made clear that cutting tech jobs due to AI is not part of the retailer’s strategy.
“We can move faster, be bolder, and experiment more rapidly with AI,” Vemana said, underscoring that AI serves as an enabler rather than a substitute for skilled workers including software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity professionals.
One key area where AI has had a notable impact is in revamping Target’s mobile app, which is critical to the company’s customer experience. The app was completely rewritten in 18 months—a process that traditionally would have taken years—to accommodate enhanced features and align with emerging AI-driven shopping assistants.
This technological advancement supports two major priorities set by CEO Michael Fiddelke: regaining control over merchandising decisions and improving the overall shopping experience. Both objectives rely heavily on cutting-edge technology and AI to meet demanding timelines and customer expectations.
Vemana also highlighted that Target’s approach to technology is culture-driven and focused on deploying tasks effectively rather than being bound to specific locations. The integration of AI across teams fosters a collaborative environment enabling the company to stay competitive in an evolving retail landscape.
Amid a global backdrop of companies reshaping their workforce around AI, Target’s leadership maintains that human talent remains indispensable. According to Vemana, the presence of AI creates an opportunity to accelerate transformation at a crucial moment when the company is pursuing ambitious growth targets.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better time for AI to show up because we have a clear growth agenda ahead,” he noted.
Target continues to leverage AI as a strategic partner in innovation and operational efficiency, affirming that its technology workforce will be essential to the retailer’s future success.
