Target Takes On Wal-Mart's Electronics

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Target(TGT) announced plans on Monday to expand its electronics department, just days after rival Wal-Mart(WMT) unveiled a similar strategy.

Target said it will enlarge its stores' video game sections by 30%.

The renovations will include new "learning centers," which will feature 40-inch high-definition touch screens where shoppers will be able to read reviews, learn about game features, sort by ratings, view in-store prices and inventories, receive recommendations on bestsellers, or page staffers for assistance. There will also be trial stations for the latest video game titles.

Target's plan comes as video-game sales have plunged. In April, the industry suffered a 26% decline in sales to $766.2 million, the fourth steepest drop in its history.

The discounter is also making improvements in its television, camcorder and camera sections. It will expand its selection of large-screen TVs and add new products that can be connected to the Internet.

Target announced last month the addition of Amazon's(AMZN) Kindle to store its shelves.

And then, last week, Wal-Mart said it planned to expand its electronics department. The big-box giant will stock more Internet-connected flat-panel televisions, Blu-ray players, mobile phones and routers.

According to a Reuters report, Wal-Mart may even start selling Apple's(AAPL) iPad by the end of the year. If this happens, it could give Wal-Mart the edge in its battle with Target and other discounters.

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Reported by Jeanine Poggi in New York.

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