Target, Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Kohl’s quickly followed, citing safety concerns and consumers growing reliance on online shopping. This year’s changes, analysts say, are likely to change the tradition for good. Target kicks off holiday sales in October, upping the ante for retailers in the race to rack up sales during the all-important fourth quarter. It’s mulling October, according to CNBC, a shift that analysts say will put more pressure on competitors to offer their best holiday deals much earlier. But analysts say it also will be important for them to find ways to safely accommodate consumers who want to browse and buy in person.

Source: Washington Post August 17, 2020 10:52 UTC