Target Plus FAQs: Everything you need to know before you start

If you’ve been thinking about selling on Target Plus but aren’t sure where to start, you’re in the right place. Target Plus is one of the most exclusive online marketplaces out there and joining it can unlock exciting growth opportunities for your business. But with exclusivity comes higher standards and a more selective process.

To help you navigate this unique marketplace, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions sellers have about Target Plus. From understanding how it works to tips for applying and optimizing your listings, we’ve got you covered.

What is Target Plus, and how is it different from other marketplaces like Amazon or Walmart?

Target Plus is Target’s exclusive online marketplace, where approved sellers can list their products directly on Target.com. Unlike Amazon or Walmart, Target Plus isn’t open to everyone – it’s invite-only. This means Target handpicks sellers to ensure they meet their high standards for quality and align with their trusted brand.

One major difference is SKU exclusivity. If your product is approved on Target Plus, no other seller can list the same SKU. This gives you an edge by eliminating direct competition and ensuring your products get maximum visibility.

Target Plus also sets itself apart by focusing on quality over quantity. Sellers need to meet specific requirements for things like product data, images, and compliance. While the bar is higher, it pays off with better-looking listings that perform well and attract more buyers.

For sellers, Target Plus is an opportunity to reach Target’s loyal and high-intent shoppers while standing out in a more curated marketplace. It’s a great way to grow your brand, diversify your sales channels, and connect with an audience that already trusts the Target name.

What are the benefits of selling on Target Plus compared to other marketplaces?

Selling on Target Plus comes with some pretty unique perks that make it stand out from other marketplaces like Amazon or Walmart. Here’s why so many sellers love being on Target Plus:

➡️ SKU exclusivity: Once your product is listed on Target Plus, no other sellers can offer the same item. That means less competition and a bigger spotlight for your products.
➡️ Loyal shoppers who love Target: Target has a massive fan base of loyal shoppers who trust the brand. These customers already love shopping with Target, and you get to tap into that built-in trust and high purchase intent.
➡️ A premium marketplace experience: Target Plus is all about quality, not quantity. The marketplace is curated, so your products won’t get lost in a sea of competition like they might on other platforms.
➡️ Built-in traffic and visibility: Target.com gets millions of visitors every month. As a seller, you benefit from that traffic without having to do all the heavy lifting yourself.
➡️ Easy advertising with Roundel: Target’s ad platform, Roundel, helps you promote your products to the right audience. It’s a simple, effective way to get your listings in front of even more shoppers.
➡️ Seamless returns: Buyers can return products to any Target store, which makes things super convenient for customers. Plus, it builds trust with shoppers – and happy customers mean more repeat business.
➡️ Instant credibility: Being on Target Plus means your brand is associated with one of the most trusted retailers in the country. That kind of credibility is hard to beat.

Who is eligible to sell on Target Plus?

Target Plus is designed for sellers who align with Target’s trusted brand and meet their high standards for quality and customer experience. Here’s what they’re typically looking for:

👉 Established brands or retailers: Target tends to prioritize sellers with strong brand recognition, a proven track record of ecommerce success, or a product offering that fills strategic gaps in their marketplace.
👉 Unique and premium products: Target Plus values products that align with its reputation for quality and its curated approach. Products that are unique, eco-friendly, or align with consumer trends like sustainability often stand out.
👉 Operational excellence: Sellers need to meet specific operational requirements, like offering fast and reliable shipping (orders shipped within 24 hours) and accepting returns through Target stores or mail. This ensures a seamless experience for Target’s shoppers.
👉 Compliance with listing requirements: Your product data, images, and other details must meet Target’s specific standards. Target wants listings that look great and provide shoppers with all the information they need to make a confident purchase.
👉 U.S.-based businesses: For now, Target Plus is only open to businesses registered in the United States, with products stored and shipped domestically.

If you’re a seller with high-quality products and solid operations, and you’re ready to meet Target’s standards, Target Plus could be a great fit for your business. 

Not sure if you qualify? Reach out to Zentail to learn more and see how you can start the application process.

Do I need to pay to apply to Target Plus?

No, applying to Target Plus is completely free. You won’t need to pay any application fees to submit your request for approval. However, once approved, you’ll need to work with an integration partner like Zentail to manage your listings and maintain compliance with Target’s requirements. 

How do I apply to become a Target Plus seller?

Applying to sell on Target Plus starts with filling out an application. However, your best shot at getting approved is by working through one of Target’s approved integration partners, like Zentail. Here’s how the process typically works:

Option 1️⃣: Direct application. You can submit an application directly through Target’s website, but keep in mind that the approval process is selective and may take time without additional guidance.

Option 2️⃣: Apply through an integration partner. Using an approved partner like Zentail significantly increases your chances of approval. Integration partners help streamline the process by submitting your application directly to Target, ensuring it meets all requirements.

By working with Zentail, you’ll also benefit from tools that make the onboarding process easier, like automated product listings, error checks, and hands-on support. This not only speeds up your time to market but also sets you up for success from day one.

How long does the application process take?

The Target Plus application itself is quick and straightforward, filling it out shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. However, the full approval process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on factors like the strength of your application, your readiness to meet Target’s high standards, and how quickly you can respond to any follow-ups or tweaks from Target.

If you’re applying on your own, the process can take longer because of the details and compliance Target requires for approval. To ensure everything moves faster and smoother, it’s best to apply through an integration partner like Zentail. Zentail offers hands-on support to guide you through every step, from prepping your application to perfecting your product data and meeting Target’s requirements right out of the gate.

Sellers working with Zentail typically get live on Target Plus in under 60 days – a huge advantage that helps you start selling to Target’s loyal shoppers much sooner. Don’t let the details slow you down. Zentail makes it easy to get approved and set up for success.

What can I do to increase my chances of being approved?

If you want to boost your chances of being approved for Target Plus, it’s all about showing that your brand and products align with Target’s high standards. Here are a few tips to help you stand out:

→ Highlight your unique value. Target is looking for products that bring something special to their marketplace – whether it’s eco-friendly features, premium quality, or unique designs. Make sure your brand story and product selection clearly reflect this.

→ Get your operations dialed in. Target requires sellers to meet strict standards for things like fast shipping, accurate product data, and hassle-free returns. Being able to demonstrate you’re ready to meet these requirements is key.

→ Show off your brand reputation. A solid social media following, positive reviews, and strong brand awareness all work in your favor. Target loves to partner with trusted brands that already resonate with their audience.

→ Apply through Zentail. Applying directly to Target can be tricky and time-consuming, but using an integration partner like Zentail can give you a big advantage. Zentail doesn’t just help you prepare a strong application, we make sure your product data is top-notch, and we work closely with Target to streamline the process. Sellers who apply through Zentail tend to have a much higher approval rate, so it’s a great way to stack the odds in your favor.

What are the common reasons sellers are not approved?

Sellers usually aren’t approved for Target Plus if they don’t meet Target’s high standards for reputation and reliability. Here are some common reasons:

❌ Not enough of an established reputation: Target looks for sellers with a strong track record, like solid sales volume, great online reviews, and consistent operations.
❌ Newer businesses: If your business hasn’t been around for long, it might not check all the boxes Target’s looking for just yet.
❌ Customer trust concerns: Target wants to make sure their customers are only buying from trusted, high-quality sellers.

If you’re worried your business might not qualify, don’t give up! Reach out to our team for guidance on improving your application and positioning your brand for success on Target Plus. 

Can I reapply if my application to Target Plus is denied?

Yes, you can reapply if your Target Plus application is denied, but it doesn’t guarantee approval. 

Before reapplying, focus on strengthening your application. This could mean improving your product data, building more social proof (like reviews or followers), or showing better operational readiness, such as faster shipping or upgraded packaging.

How can I ensure my listings meet Target Plus’s standards?

Meeting Target Plus’s high standards for product listings can feel overwhelming, but Zentail makes it easy to stay compliant and deliver top-notch listings. Here’s how Zentail helps:

✅ Automated compliance checks: Zentail’s tools, like Listing Prep, flag any missing information or errors that might prevent your listings from going live. You’ll get clear guidance on what needs to be fixed, saving you hours of manual work.
✅ SMART Types for seamless formatting: Target has strict requirements for product attributes, images, and descriptions. Zentail’s SMART Types automatically format your data to meet Target’s standards, reducing errors and speeding up the process.
✅ Error alerts and quick resolutions: With Zentail, you’ll receive real-time error alerts, so you can fix issues immediately. No more guesswork or long delays waiting to figure out what went wrong.
✅ White-glove support: Zentail’s team is here to guide you through every step. From initial setup to ongoing optimization, they’ll ensure your listings meet Target’s requirements and stand out to shoppers.

Using Zentail not only simplifies the process but also ensures your listings are high-quality, compliant, and optimized for success on Target Plus. With the right tools and expert support, you can focus less on managing errors and more on growing your sales.

Do I need to work with an integration partner like Zentail to sell on Target Plus?

Yes, working with an approved integration partner like Zentail is required to sell on Target Plus. Integration partners help streamline the onboarding process, ensure your product data meets Target’s strict standards, and provide the tools you need to manage your listings efficiently. Zentail goes a step further by offering hands-on support, error alerts, and automation tools that save you time and maximize your success on Target Plus.

Can I use Zentail to manage my listings on other marketplaces as well?

Absolutely! Zentail is designed to help you manage your listings across multiple marketplaces, not just Target Plus. With Zentail, you can streamline your operations on platforms like Amazon, Walmart, Shopify, eBay, and more – all from one centralized platform.

Features like SMART Types and automated listing management ensure your product data is optimized for each marketplace’s unique requirements. You’ll also benefit from inventory syncing, error alerts, and tools to keep your listings compliant and up-to-date across the board.

Can selling on Target Plus help my brand grow beyond the marketplace?

Absolutely. Selling on Target Plus isn’t just about increasing sales – it’s about building your brand. Target’s reputation as a trusted retailer puts your products in front of shoppers who value quality and trust the Target name. Plus, the exclusivity of SKU listings helps your products stand out. By being part of this curated marketplace, you’re not only gaining exposure but also boosting your brand’s credibility, which can open doors for growth far beyond Target Plus.

Ready to get started?

Target Plus is an exclusive opportunity to connect with Target’s loyal shoppers, grow your brand, and stand out in a curated marketplace. If you’re ready to take the next step, Zentail can make the process faster, easier, and stress-free. Apply now.