A sign on a Target store in Harmarville, Pa., is...

A sign on a Target store in Harmarville, Pa., is shown on Sept. 16, 2024. Credit: AP/Gene J. Puskar

NEW YORK — Target etched out a slim sales increase in the third quarter but profits slumped as inflation-weary customers pulled back on spending and costs related to a dockworker strike in October dragged on results.

The Minneapolis retailer fell short of Wall Street expectations for the quarter and its outlook for the final three months of the year also disappointed industry analysts in an environment in which Americans are still spending, but being more selective.

The most recent quarter at Target stands in stark contrast to rival Walmart, which reported another quarter of stellar sales Tuesday and released optimistic projections for the holiday season.

Shares plummeted 14% before the opening bell Wednesday.

Man gets 30 years for double murder ... Heuermann family moving out ... Dunia commits to UNC Credit: Newsday

Rain forecast for LI ... Jessica Tisch named NYPD commissioner ... Stella Ristorante closing ... Planning a Thanksgiving dinner

Man gets 30 years for double murder ... Heuermann family moving out ... Dunia commits to UNC Credit: Newsday

Rain forecast for LI ... Jessica Tisch named NYPD commissioner ... Stella Ristorante closing ... Planning a Thanksgiving dinner

SUBSCRIBE

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME