Nov 27, 2009 10:39 pm US/Central
Mpls. Target 'Command Center' Watches U.S. Stores
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) ―
-
-
Even before the stores open, from New York to Minnesota, Alaska to Hawaii, Target Corporate Control keeps tabs on them.
CBS
Target Corporate Headquarters in Minneapolis is keeping a close eye on Black Friday shoppers in their stores nationwide.
They are being extra cautious after the tragedy last year at a Wal-Mart when a shopper died after customers stormed the doors.
WCCO-TV got a rare look inside Target's Corporate Command Center.
"This control center is our 'NASA Mission Control,' it is the hub," said Target Corporate Vice President of Asset Protection Brad Brekke.
It's from there Target security staff keeps an eye on stores across the country, 24/7 and year-round. It's especially important on Black Friday weekend.
"To ensure guest service by monitoring both crowd management outside and once our stores open, ensuring that the guests are able to move through the store OK," explained Brekke
Even before the stores open, from New York to Minnesota, Alaska to Hawaii, Target Corporate Control keeps tabs on them.
"We want to ensure those that show up first keep their proper place in line. We don't want to create confusion or anger with the crowd itself," said Brekke.
So cart caravans are used to create an orderly flow both inside and out as groups of shoppers file in at a staggered pace.
"And then make sure in the store itself that there's not running for the product," said Brekke.
The electronics department is the first stop for many.
"Getting the door busters and finding deals," said Carla Anderson of Fridley. "I've got some video games, I've got some PS3 games, some Wii games."
Shoppers say the security measures worked.
"I haven't had to wait in long lines or whenever I needed help, I had plenty of help. It's been a wonderful experience," said Robin Cooper of Minneapolis.
Target security had no major problems Friday at any of the stores across the country.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
'She Wears Your Tee:' A Minn. Creation
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
Reporting
