Mall of America, Target among retailers not open to shoppers on Thanksgiving

Retailers are re-thinking opening their doors to Black Friday shoppers early.

Among the major retailers that will not be opening Thursday evening will be Minneapolis-based Target, the chain announced last week.

“What started as a temporary measure driven by the pandemic is now our new standard — one that recognizes our ability to deliver on our guests’ holiday wishes both within and well beyond store hours,” Target’s CEO wrote in a note to employees obtained by the Associated Press.

The Mall of America will also remain closed on Thursday, opening instead at 7 AM Friday morning.

Experts are predicting record-breaking holiday sales starting this week. The National Retail Federation predicts 2021 could see holiday sales growth between 8.5% and 10.5%.