Target Installs Single Stall Restrooms after Transgender Fallout
Target is spending $20 million to install private restrooms after numerous complaints over the company's recent transgender directive allowing individuals to use the restroom of their preference.
"We get it. Some like it, some don't. We're committed to offering a welcoming environment for everyone," Target spokesperson Katie Boylan said.
Most of Target's stores already have single-occupancy or unisex bathrooms. The department store giant is now adding the private restroom option to 277 of its stores by March of 2017.
Chief Financial Officer Cathy Smith said the policy change did not impact sales. CEO Brian Cornell had promised to roll out family restrooms earlier in the year and defended the stores' defense on diversity.
Still, company leaders admit their second quarter sales were less than optimum.
"We are not satisfied with our second quarter traffic and sales performance," Smith said.
Walker Wildmon, spokesman for the American Family Association, said the single stall restroom should be a good option for anyone who feels uncomfortable.
"If the majority feel uncomfortable, they will have to go into the single-stall bathroom," he said. "Transgender individuals should have to use the single stall if they feel uncomfortable using the facilities assigned on their birth certificate."
