Target mandates in-person work three days a week for employees in downtown Minneapolis

In September 2025, hundreds of Target employees congregated at Target Center in downtown Minneapolis for the company's annual three-day meeting, marking a significant return to in-person work. This change came as part of a company policy announced earlier, requiring employees at Target's Nicollet Mall headquarters to work on-site three days weekly. Target’s chief commercial officer Rick Gomez communicated this transition in a July memo, where he highlighted the benefits of collaboration and personal connection inherent in office work. Employees in the commercial unit were given flexibility in choosing which days to work downtown. The decision to have employees return to in-person work has garnered praise from city leaders aiming to revitalize downtown businesses that have faced challenges since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many small businesses, particularly those located on Nicollet Mall, have struggled due to reduced foot traffic, and local officials hope that more workers returning to the office will help drive customer visits. Minneapolis Downtown Council CEO Adam Duninick referred to Nicollet Mall as "Minnesota's Main Street," emphasizing its importance as a social and commercial hub. This new policy follows Target's earlier experiment with a hybrid work model in April 2022, allowing employees the flexibility to work remotely while also utilizing the physical office spaces as needed. The company expressed insight into the evolving work environment, recognizing the importance of physical offices moving forward. The empowerment of individual leaders to make decisions based on team requirements aligns with Target's overall strategy to foster better collaboration among employees. Prior to the pandemic, Target was the largest employer in downtown Minneapolis, with approximately 8,500 workers contributing to the economy by frequenting local businesses during the workweek. With the increasing implementation of in-person work policies, city officials have implemented initiatives to enhance pedestrian mobility downtown, attempting to attract more visitors and boost the economic landscape. Mayor Jacob Frey articulated a vision of the area that extends beyond traditional work hours, envisioning a dynamic community space for entertainment and celebration. This shift in mindset complements the Downtown Action Plan started last October, geared towards revitalizing the region and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for families and visitors alike.