A Target worker is asking parents who shop for kids clothes to stop abusing the retailer’s generous return policy.
In a TikTok amassing 247,500 views, Easton (@masteryconnect) issued the PSA via an on-screen caption that reads, “Please stop abusing the Cat & Jack return policy and buy your kids clothes.”
What is the Cat & Jack return policy?
Cat & Jack is Target’s kids clothing brand, which launched in 2016 and is currently worth $3 billion. Per the Target website, Cat & Jack is part of Target’s Owned Brand returns policy, which states, “If you’re not satisfied with any Target Owned Brand item, return it within one year with a receipt for an exchange or a refund.”
While this 1-year return policy is generous, does it go too far? Easton seems to believe so. He commented that “most people bring in disgusting clothes without tags and it takes forever because they bring a big bag full of clothes.”
TikTok is divided on the practice, but there is a strategy at play here. Neil Saunders, GlobalData’s managing director for retail, presented an alternative point of view to Business Insider. “Target’s return policy is extremely generous and is designed to build confidence in its own brand product and create a strong customer-service ethos,” he said. “This is especially important in kidswear, where parents spend a small fortune and garments are put through their paces by often very active children.”
Target isn’t the only one
Target isn’t the only clothing outlet with a dubious returns policy. Up until recently, American Eagle returns didn’t have a time limit. This meant that people could return clothes that were years old. TikToker Patti (@pattixox) for instance, shared how she returned a pair of jeans that were 2 years old.
However, after July 24, American Eagle’s policy rebranded to the “100% Happiness” policy. This gives customers 30 days to return clothes for a refund. The other major difference is that clothes now must be unworn with tags, whereas before American Eagle accepted worn clothes with no tags.
The Daily Dot reached out to Easton via TikTok comment and direct message for comment. We also reached out to Target via email.
TikToker clarifies his stance
Update, Aug. 11, 2024: In an email to the Daily Dot, Easton wrote, “I wanted to provide a bit of backstory regarding the TikTok video I posted. The content was aimed at highlighting the misuse of Target’s return policy. As it stands, I believe the policy allows for returns up to one year, which is intended to cover manufacturing defects. However, it’s often exploited by some customers.”
Easton added, “I feel that the policy should be revised to prevent such abuse. It’s surprising that this issue hasn’t been addressed, as it seems to be a widespread problem.”
He concluded, “Overall, I really enjoy my job at Target. Like any job, there are ups and downs, but I generally have a positive experience working here. The TikTok video was just meant to highlight one of the challenges I face, and it seems to have resonated with a lot of people.”
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