MINNEAPOLIS, MN - Enlisting shoppers for delivery is becoming a regular practice as consumers work to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus. These delivery shoppers are on the frontlines, and many retailers are implementing new measures to protect the health and safety of their customers and team members alike. Target is one such company, making some safety announcements earlier this month and teasing that its same-day grocery delivery service, Shipt, has hired an additional 70,000 shoppers.

“We’re incredibly proud of the commitment our more than 350,000 frontline team members have demonstrated to ensure millions of guests can count on Target, and we’ll continue to focus our efforts on supporting them,” said John Mulligan, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Target. “The measures we’re announcing today are aimed at ensuring we are creating a safe environment for the guests who continue to turn to Target, while also providing our team with additional resources as they fulfill an essential service in communities across the country.”

According to the news source StarTribune, Shipt shoppers are independent contractors, and the company expects its fleet to reach roughly 200,000 in the coming weeks.

This new format is highly relied upon by consumers these days, and Target is working to ensure all who seek out this service are guaranteed a timely delivery window.

“Our shoppers have been delivering record volumes to our customers, yet we know many are finding it difficult to use our services due to high demand,” said Shipt CEO Kelly Caruso, explaining that the company plans to double its delivery fleet by the end of the month.

Keep an eye out for reports from ANUK as more news surrounding the coronavirus comes to light.

Target Shipt