Target Opens Flagship Store on Michigan Avenue

A major retail milestone arrived on Michigan Avenue this week as Target Corporation officially opened its newest flagship location, marking a significant investment in Chicago’s downtown recovery and the Magnificent Mile’s retail renaissance.

The 75,000-square-foot store, located at 901 North Michigan Avenue in the former Barneys New York space, represents Target’s largest urban format store in the Midwest. The opening comes as downtown Chicago continues to rebuild its retail landscape following pandemic-related closures and changing consumer habits.

“This flagship represents our deep commitment to Chicago and our belief in the future of downtown retail,” said Mark Schindele, Target’s senior vice president of properties. “We’ve designed this store specifically for urban customers who want convenience, quality, and a connection to their local community.”

The store features several Chicago-exclusive elements, including a dedicated section showcasing products from local vendors and artisans. Among the featured local partners are Garrett Popcorn Shops, Lou Malnati’s frozen pizzas, and clothing from Chicago-based designer Ikram Goldman. A prominent display near the entrance celebrates Chicago’s cultural landmarks with exclusive merchandise featuring iconic imagery from Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the city’s famous architecture.

The opening represents a $40 million investment in the downtown area and brings approximately 150 new jobs to the community. Target has been actively recruiting from Chicago neighborhoods, with particular focus on hiring from the South and West sides through partnerships with local workforce development organizations.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson attended the store’s ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday morning, emphasizing the retailer’s role in the city’s economic recovery strategy.

“Target’s decision to invest in a flagship location on Michigan Avenue sends a powerful message about Chicago’s resilience and our bright retail future,” Johnson said. “This store will serve both residents and the millions of visitors who come to experience our world-class shopping district each year.”

The store’s design incorporates several innovative features tailored for urban shoppers. A dedicated pickup area allows online customers to collect orders within minutes, while an expanded beauty section includes consultation services and partnerships with emerging beauty brands. The grocery section emphasizes grab-and-go options and prepared foods suitable for downtown workers and residents.

A rooftop garden space, accessible to customers, showcases native Illinois plants and offers views of Lake Michigan. The garden supplies fresh herbs used in the store’s prepared food offerings and serves as an educational space about sustainable urban agriculture.

The opening comes at a crucial time for Michigan Avenue’s retail corridor. According to the Magnificent Mile Association, the area has seen a 15% increase in foot traffic compared to last year, though it remains below pre-pandemic levels. Several major retailers have downsized or relocated from the corridor in recent years, making Target’s expansion particularly significant.

“Having a major national retailer commit to a flagship presence on Michigan Avenue is exactly what we need to rebuild confidence in our district,” said Kimberly Bares, president and CEO of the Magnificent Mile Association. “Target brings everyday accessibility that complements our luxury offerings and serves both tourists and local residents.”

The store’s technology integration includes self-checkout options, mobile payment systems, and digital displays that provide real-time inventory information. A dedicated space for Drive Up orders allows customers to receive purchases without leaving their vehicles, addressing the needs of busy urban consumers.

Target’s Chicago expansion extends beyond Michigan Avenue. The company announced plans to renovate three existing Chicago locations over the next 18 months and is exploring additional small-format stores in neighborhood shopping districts throughout the city.

Local economic development experts view the opening as part of broader trends reshaping urban retail. The store’s emphasis on local partnerships and community integration reflects strategies retailers are adopting to maintain relevance in an increasingly digital marketplace.

The flagship location employs several sustainability initiatives, including LED lighting throughout, energy-efficient refrigeration systems, and a commitment to waste reduction. Target has pledged to achieve net-zero emissions across its operations by 2030, and the Michigan Avenue store serves as a testing ground for new environmental technologies.

Store hours are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, with extended hours during peak shopping seasons. The location includes a Starbucks café and a CVS pharmacy, providing additional convenience for downtown shoppers and workers.

For many Chicagoans, the store’s opening represents more than retail convenience. It signals confidence in the city’s downtown future and provides accessible shopping options in an area increasingly dominated by luxury retailers.

The store’s impact on local employment extends beyond direct hiring. Target estimates the location will generate approximately $2 million annually in local tax revenue and support additional jobs in delivery, security, and maintenance services.

As Michigan Avenue continues its post-pandemic evolution, Target’s flagship store represents a vote of confidence in Chicago’s retail future and a model for how major retailers can adapt to changing urban landscapes while maintaining strong community connections.