Target said that it plans to build and manage its own platform for Target.com and expects to launch a new platform before the holiday season in 2011.
The announcement by the Minneapolis-based discount retailer ends the eight-year deal with Amazon which began in 2001, under which Amazon has worked with Target on its website.
Steve Eastman, president of Target.com, said: “Amazon has been an important strategic partner since we re-launched Target.com in 2001, and the strength of Amazon’s technology and fulfilment services has been a contributing factor in Target.com’s success.
“However, to deliver a customised multi-channel experience for Target’s guests, we believe it is in Target’s best interest going forward to assume full control over the design and management of Target’s e-commerce technology platform, fulfilment and guest services operations.”
Target said that it had previously extended the contract with Amazon to 2011 and will continue to work together during the next two years to optimise performance of the existing platform and fulfilment services.
Target is the latest among other retailers who have parted ways with Amazon. Other retailers that moved away from Amazon include Borders Group and Toys “R” Us.
