Target, which has about 1,980 U.S. stores, has been the focus of consumer boycotts since late January, when it joined rival Walmart and a number of other prominent American brands in scaling back corporate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Michael Fiddelke, Target's current chief operating officer, will succeed Brian Cornell as chief executive officer, the company said in a release. Cornell, who has served as the company's CEO since 2014, will step down and Fiddelke will take over the role on Feb. 1, 2026.

Aug. 20 (UPI) -- Target on Wednesday announced that Cheif Operating Officer Michael Fiddelke will be the company's next cheif executive officer. Target's board of directors unanimously voted for Fiddelke to succeed current CEO Brian Cornell effective on Feb. 1, 2026.