By Justin Flynn
TARGET has defended its decision to stop selling menswear from its Ocean Grove store.
Target Country stopped selling men’s clothes several weeks ago, prompting many local consumers to express their disappointment via social media and to the Ocean Grove Business Association.
However the retail giant said the decision was part of a trial.
“Target Ocean Grove has been chosen as a trial store to have its space and range reviewed,” a Target spokesperson said.
“Target is committed and focussed on ensuring stores like Ocean Grove have the right range for all our customers so that it becomes a destination store all year round. In preparation for the change the store has been given a facelift which includes a new floor, new fixtures, freshly painted, new signage inside and out and the store entry has been upgraded.”
It leaves only the Green Room and Strapper Surf, both on The Terrace, that sell men’s clothes, albeit surfwear.
Ocean Grove Business Association president Ty Simons said he had received inquiries about Target’s decision.
“The committee has been approached by many residents to see whether we can do anything about it,” he said.
“Apart from surfwear, there’s nowhere in town to buy menswear. You’ve got to go into Geelong and it is taking people away from town because if you go into Geelong, chances are you’re not just going to one shop. It’s particularly difficult for the older generation who might not drive and can’t go into Geelong.”
The Target spokesperson said that the trial would include all customer feedback.
“We want to make sure we utilise the best use of our space, which means ranging the right products for our customers,” she said.
“Available in store is an improved larger range for womenswear, childrenswear, bed and bath. This is a trial store and we will consider all feedback.”
