Target is rolling out a points-based attendance tracking system for its store and warehouse employees starting this September, according to a report by Business Insider. The move comes as the retailer seeks to tighten operations under new CEO Michael Fiddelke.
Under the policy, workers receive a quarter of a point for being more than eight minutes late, one point for missing a shift without manager approval, and three points for failing to show up without notice. Accumulating three points triggers a mandatory check-in with a manager, while 12 points lead to termination. Points reset annually.
The attendance tracker is part of Fiddelke’s broader strategy to refresh Target stores and rebuild customer trust after the company reported declining comparable sales for four consecutive quarters. “Just like I’m not satisfied with our performance the last few years, a team would tell you the same,” Fiddelke said in an earlier interview with The Associated Press.
Target joins a growing list of retailers, including Amazon and Walmart, that use similar point-based systems to manage attendance. Such systems have drawn criticism from labor advocates who argue they penalize workers for unavoidable circumstances and can lead to higher turnover.
Target spokesperson Brian Harper-Tibaldo said the company is “focused on returning to growth, and elevating our guest experience is a key strategic priority.” Critics, however, question whether such strict attendance policies improve service or simply increase employee stress.