Target, Inc.

MINNEAPOLIS -- In a bid to connect with its customers through technology, Target Corp. here is now offering to send cell phone text messages to SuperTarget shoppers who register on the retailer's Web site, according to published reports. The service started two weeks ago.

BENTONVILLE, Ark., ISSAQUAH, Wash., MINNEAPOLIS and NATICK, Mass. -- The country's top mass retailers -- which also happen to be those giving many grocers a run for their money -- yesterday reported higher same-store sales for November.

NEW YORK -- Supermarkets are being overlooked by consumers who are increasingly searching for solutions online to help with home entertaining. It represents a missed opportunity for sales, according to Hitwise, a New York-based online competitive intelligence service.

WASHINGTON -- Rochester, N.Y.-based Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. finished first in customer service among food and drug retailers in a new survey of nearly 9,000 consumers.

MINNEAPOLIS -- Despite higher revenues, Target Corp. here said it recorded an 18 percent slip in earnings for the third quarter. Food played a role in sales gains for the period, however.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. -- Earth Fare continues to spread its own version of supernatural marketing in the South. Just weeks after the debut of its first Charlotte location, the chain said yesterday it plans a second Charlotte location in the South Park section, and added it will also open a second store in its home town here.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- D&W Food Centers Inc. here is eliminating 150 jobs in an effort to remain competitive. The staff cuts amount to about 10 percent of the regional grocer's workforce, and include positions at the executive level and corporate facilities, as well as in 20 retail locations in West Michigan that are owned by the Robert Woodrick family.

MINNEAPOLIS -- Upscale discounter Target Corp. here celebrated its greatest amount of grand openings ever this weekend, with 60 new Target stores cropping up literally from coast to coast.