By Gary Lloyd
TRUSSVILLE — Target has “respectfully” requested that shoppers not bring firearms into their stores, according to a notice the retailer posted on its website.
Target interim CEO John Mulligan shared the note with Target team members Wednesday.
Mulligan noted that as has been seen in the media, there’s been a debate about whether shoppers in communities that permit “open carry” should be allowed to bring firearms into Target stores.
A Target store
photo courtesy of Target Corporation
“Our approach has always been to follow local laws, and of course, we will continue to do so,” the notice states. “But starting today we will also respectfully request that guests not bring firearms to Target – even in communities where it is permitted by law.”
The notice states Target has “listened carefully to the nuances of this debate and respect the protected rights of everyone involved.”
“In return, we are asking for help in fulfilling our goal to create an atmosphere that is safe and inviting for our guests and team members,” the notice states. “This is a complicated issue, but it boils down to a simple belief: Bringing firearms to Target creates an environment that is at odds with the family-friendly shopping and work experience we strive to create.”
Target has a location on U.S. Highway 11 in Trussville.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.
