Wal-Mart, Target swap holiday lessons

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Wal-Mart and Target are taking a leaf out of each other’s books this holiday season, the Associated Press reports. Wal-Mart, while maintaining its push for low prices, is looking to emulate Target’s customer service strength, while Target is emphasizing deals. Both retailers are being challenged to perfect every aspect of their operations by the continued popularity of online shopping. Wal-Mart has the advantage going into the season, having raised its outlook after posting an eighth quarterly increase in a row. Target lowered its guidance as sales slowed. “Wal-Mart has been benefiting from better service and for this holiday season, it should be a boon,” said Retail Metrics president Ken Perkins. “I expect Wal-Mart will outpace Target. Target has a big price hurdle.”