Big-box retailer Target will add single-stall bathrooms at all of its stores where that option is not currently offered, reflecting a direct response to the debate that erupted earlier this year over its new transgender-bathroom policy.
Target Chief Financial Officer Cathy Smith told reporters Wednesday that the company would invest $20 million to add single-stall bathrooms.
The company already had single-stall bathrooms that anyone can use at about 1,400 of its 1,800 stores, Target spokesperson Katie Boylan said.
Target is not altering its transgender bathroom policy, which allows people to "use the restroom or fitting room facility that corresponds with their gender identity." That policy, announced this spring, drew opposition from some conservative activists who vowed to boycott the chain.
Boylan acknowledged that Target has received feedback from customers who are "very, very supportive" and "some who are not."
"The impact to the business is not material at this time," she said.
But Boylan said Target decided to add single-stall, lockable bathrooms in all of its stores "because we're listening."
"We get it. Some like it, some don't. We're committed" to offering a welcoming environment for everyone, she said.
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