By 2017, the much feared "retail apocalypse" had evolved from scary prospect to terrifying reality.
More than 6,600 stores closed in the first quarter alone, and several iconic retailers fell into bankruptcy. Changing shopping behavior, increased pressure from online competitors and a lack of clear strategy and differentiation called into question many traditional retailers' prospects.
Within that bleak landscape, Target faced questions about its own future following a challenging 2016 when sales declined 0.5%, merely the latest in a string of setbacks dating back to a major 2013 data breach that rocked the company. Media, investors and employees were vocal...