By Sayuri Vargas-Hernandez, Staff Writer
Wesley Chapel just made a huge upgrade. You could see people from the parking lot, with excited faces as they walked and looked up at the big red letters that read “Now Open.” The doors slid open as stanchions with red velvet rope welcomed people into the newest addition to Wesley Chapel.
A brand-new Target store has officially opened at The Grove, which is an outdoor plaza in Wesley Chapel with shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. It’s 25 minutes from Saint Leo University. Many students go there to relax, eat, and have fun.
The new Target is huge, with 148,500 square feet of shopping space, making it one of the largest Targets in Florida. It’s actually the second-largest Target in the United States out of nearly 2,000 stores.
Approximately 250 people lined up before doors opened at 8 a.m. on Oct.12 to be a part of the grand opening, so people could see the inside of the store, which gave them so much excitement.
This isn’t just an average Target. The new store is expected to feature expanded sections for groceries, clothing, and carry brands such as Champion, Betty Boop, Ava Viv, and business attire in addition to accessories, including jewelry, sunglasses, hair clips, and shoes.
The fitting rooms are big, and there is a long row of them. They all come with a seat and spots to hang multiple items of clothing.
Additionally, customers will have access to a full CVS Pharmacy, a Starbucks café, and Target Optical for eye exams and glasses. They also have an Apple section with iPhones and Apple watches.
With 16,000 square feet dedicated to fresh produce, meat, and dairy, it’s now easier to grab everything you need. The layout is open and modern, with wider halls and a clean design that makes shopping feel more relaxed and enjoyable. Also, the isle signs were lit up with bright white lights to make it easier to see.
The thing about this new Target is that it is bringing the community 170 new jobs, giving residents more opportunities, and helping to support Wesley Chapel’s continued growth.
Drive-up, pick-up, and multiple-parking delivery orders are also part of the new Target. The pickup stations are located outside Target, on the side with multiple parking spaces designated for deliveries. It also features electric vehicle chargers, allowing you to charge your car while shopping.
This helps Saint Leo students get what they need from Target, as it is much closer to campus, and they don’t have to travel far or to other locations to find a Target.
This is already becoming a go-to spot for families, students, and anyone who loves a good Target run. The store feels welcoming and fresh.
This new Target gives people opportunities to have more choices, more jobs, and a nice place to shop, relax, and connect. Whether it’s just picking up groceries, grabbing a last-minute gift, or just stopping in for a quick coffee, the new Target store is here to make life a little easier.
