Target’s Black Friday Goodie Bags Labeled a ‘Scam’

Black Friday is usually a time for shoppers to snag incredible deals, but this year, Target’s highly anticipated goodie bag promotion has backfired, sparking widespread disappointment and accusations of being a ‘scam’ on social media. Customers who lined up early are feeling let down by the contents of the promised ‘limited edition iridescent holiday tote.’

Underwhelming Giveaways Spark Outrage

Target had advertised that the first 100 customers on Black Friday would receive a special tote bag filled with giveaways. The first 10 people in line were even promised extra surprises like a Laifen hair dryer, Ninja slushie machine, or Beats headphones. However, shoppers who braved the crowds took to social media to reveal the underwhelming contents, which reportedly included items like Uno cards, Nerds candy, and protein powder packs.

One customer, @abbeydry9572, posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Waited hours for those ‘swag bags’ just to get… this? What a freaking joke. Y’all hyped it up like it was Christmas morning and handed us a bag of nothing. Guess I’ll go play Uno with everyone else who got played today. Absolute scam-level disappointment. @Target.”

Comparisons to EBT and Retail Consultant Criticism

The disappointment was palpable, with some shoppers comparing the giveaways unfavorably to items received via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. User @terribphotog stated, “You mean to tell me Target couldn’t afford a thick throw blanket, a gift card, some spa products and maybe some fuzzy slippers in the swag bags? … Just trash, that gift was EBT.” Retail consultants have also weighed in, with Lisa Miller calling the promotion “a big fail” as Target works to rebuild customer trust.

Miller noted that a ‘swag bag from Target would set expectations, but it was filled with cheap lip gloss, travel-size shampoo and a deck of cards.’ This promotion comes at a critical time for Target, as the company attempts to improve its customer experience and boost sales following a significant blow after dialing back on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which led to a boycott and subsequent job cuts.

While Target has hosted successful events like the special release for Taylor Swift’s album, this Black Friday promotion seems to have missed the mark significantly. The negative social media reaction highlights the importance of managing customer expectations, especially during high-stakes promotional periods.