If you are a Target shopper and you become pregnant, chances are you will receive pregnancy related coupons in the mail. According to the New York Times, the company has discovered a way to predict if a woman is pregnant through the items she purchases, with a surprising amount of accuracy.
Analysts working for the retail company discovered about 25 products that, when purchased, allow for a “pregnancy prediction score.” The score allows Target to predict if a shopper is pregnant, and it allows it to predict her due date. Knowing the due date is important, because it allows delivery of coupons at very specific times.
Researchers have discovered that the shopping patterns of customers are relatively stable. Because these patterns are so ingrained, they are difficult to change. There are certain events, though, that open individuals up to changes in behavior. Life events, such as marriage or the birth of baby, are important to businesses. During the time surrounding such events, retailers can shift your shopping patterns and make you a lifelong customer.
Target’s new strategies are not surprising. The company’s main goal is to generate profits, and it will use whatever legal means at its disposal to do so. The job of consumer protection advocates, legislators and the public is to decide what will and will not be allowed in the pursuit of such profits.
Sarelson Law Firm – Miami liability attorneys