October 2015 – Target department stores have removed gender-based signs and labels in children’s toy and bedding sections in its stores. The company cites customer complaints as the basis for the decision and states, “We don’t want customers to feel frustrated or limited by the way merchandise is presented.” Instead of designating items “boys” or “girls” or including colors such as blue or pink, signs will simply say “kids.” Some gender-based signs will remain, such as in the clothing section.
“In the name of not confusing children, Target is confounding common sense,” said Randy Sharp, AFA director of special projects. “Little boys would rather play with a truck than a doll. Gender lines in such matters are not blurred, until the company chooses to blur them.”
