Is There a Target in Cross County Mall? Unveiling the Retail Landscape

The answer, in short, is no, there is currently no Target store located directly within the physical confines of Cross County Mall. However, the story doesn’t end there. Understanding the surrounding area, nearby options, and the evolving retail landscape provides a much more nuanced and valuable picture for shoppers.

Delving Deeper: Why No Target in the Mall?

While the absence of a Target inside Cross County Mall might disappoint some, several factors could contribute to this. These include existing anchor tenants, available square footage, Target’s specific market strategy, and the overall demographics and retail ecosystem of the Mattoon, Illinois, area. Anchor stores (like JCPenney and Rural King in this case) often have long-term leases and exclusivity agreements that can prevent direct competition.

Exploring the Surrounding Retail Environment

The absence of a Target inside the mall doesn’t necessarily mean a lack of access to Target products for those living in or visiting Mattoon. The area is still served by multiple retail options, offering a variety of goods and services. This includes department stores, specialty shops, and other discount retailers. Savvy shoppers often find alternatives or order online for convenient pick-up or delivery.

Navigating Your Shopping Options: Alternatives and Strategies

So, how can you get your Target fix if Cross County Mall isn’t the answer? Let’s explore some alternative strategies.

Online Shopping and Order Pickup

The digital age offers a powerful solution: Target’s website and app. You can browse their extensive catalog, place an order, and often choose between shipping directly to your home or picking up your order at a nearby Target location (if one exists) or shipping hub. This can be a highly convenient option for busy shoppers.

Exploring Nearby Retail Destinations

If you are looking to make an in-person Target run, it’s worth exploring surrounding areas. Driving distances vary, but depending on how far you are willing to travel, you might be able to find a Target store in a neighboring town or city.

Utilizing Other Department Stores and Retailers

Don’t underestimate the power of similar department stores and retailers within Cross County Mall and the surrounding Mattoon area. JCPenney and Rural King, for instance, offer a range of products that may overlap with Target’s offerings, particularly in categories like home goods, clothing, and seasonal items.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Target and Cross County Mall

This section addresses common questions shoppers might have.

1. Is there a plan to build a Target in Cross County Mall in the future?

Unfortunately, I cannot confirm this. Target’s future plans are typically confidential. The best source for official updates would be to monitor Target’s corporate news releases and local news outlets covering retail developments in the Mattoon area.

2. What are the closest Target stores to Cross County Mall?

This information changes frequently, so it’s best to use the Target store locator on their website or app to find the nearest locations. Inputting the Cross County Mall address (700 Broadway Ave E, Mattoon, IL 61938) will give you the most accurate results.

3. Does Cross County Mall offer similar products to Target?

Yes, to some extent. Stores like JCPenney and Rural King carry comparable items in categories like clothing, home decor, electronics, and seasonal merchandise. Check individual store listings for specific product availability.

4. What other department stores are located in Cross County Mall?

Currently, JCPenney and Rural King are the anchor stores operating in Cross County Mall.

5. Can I order Target products online and have them delivered to Cross County Mall?

No. Target does not deliver directly to Cross County Mall as a central delivery point. However, you can have them shipped to your home or a designated pickup location.

6. Are there any smaller retailers in Cross County Mall that carry Target-branded products?

This is unlikely. Target-branded products are typically exclusive to Target stores or their online platform. However, retailers may offer similar generic brands or products in the same category.

7. How has the absence of a Target affected shopping habits in the Mattoon area?

This is difficult to quantify without specific market research data. However, it is reasonable to assume that residents likely shop online more frequently, travel to nearby towns with Target stores, or rely on alternative retailers in the area.

8. Does the city of Mattoon have any incentives to attract a Target store?

This would depend on local government initiatives and economic development strategies. Such information would generally be available through Mattoon’s city government website or local news sources.

9. What are the demographics of the shoppers who frequent Cross County Mall?

Cross County Mall primarily serves the residents of Mattoon and the surrounding Coles County region. Specific demographic data can be found in local economic reports or market research analyses.

10. What other stores are being considered to fill vacant spaces in Cross County Mall?

Future tenants are usually kept confidential until confirmed. Refer to Cross County Mall’s management office or their website for any announcements regarding new retailers. Also check local news outlets for information about the mall.

11. Could a smaller-format Target store (like a “Target Express”) be a possibility for Cross County Mall?

While it’s possible, the decision rests entirely with Target’s corporate strategy and market analysis. Smaller-format Target stores are often located in urban areas or college towns, so it would depend on whether Mattoon aligns with their target demographic for this type of store.

12. How can I request a Target store in my area or at Cross County Mall?

You can submit a suggestion through Target’s corporate website or contact their customer service department. While there is no guarantee that this will directly result in a new store, it does provide valuable feedback to their market research team.

In conclusion, while there isn’t a Target store directly within Cross County Mall, understanding the broader retail landscape, online shopping options, and nearby alternatives empowers shoppers to make informed decisions and find the products they need. Keep exploring and happy shopping!