Target to close more stores across US, citing theft and safety concerns for employees, customers

Target Corp. will next month close nine stores in four states, citing theft and concerns about the safety of employees and customers.

The Minneapolis-based retail giant made the announcement Tuesday and said the closures are set for Oct. 21.

Stores will be closed in Harlem neighborhood of New York City, Portland, Seattle and the San Francisco Bay area.

Company executives made the decision to close the stores after determining theft-preventive measures – including more security and locking up merchandise – were ineffective, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

They have also specifically cited "organized retail crime" and problems in stores in cities. 

"We cannot continue operating these stores because theft and organized retail crime are threatening the safety of our team and guests and contributing to unsustainable business performance," the company said. "We know that our stores serve an important role in their communities, but we can only be successful if the working and shopping environment is safe for all."

Target CEO Brian Cornell said last month stores had a 120% increase in theft involving violence or threats of violence in the first five months of the year, the newspaper also reports.