Target has a somewhat cult following among parents. But a store feature that’s been making the viral rounds could even further cement its place in mothers’ hearts.
The popular Facebook page, Breastfeeding Mama Talk, recently shared a photo taken at the Target in New Braunfels, Texas that’s been making the social media rounds. The picture shows a “feeding station,” where parents can nurse or bottle-feed their babies in the middle of the store.
The station features comfy-looking seats, cushions, free nursing pads, a nursing cover for moms who prefer more privacy, blankets and more. The Breastfeeding Mama Talk page also praised the fact that it’s conveniently located out in the open and not hidden away.
The photo garnered over 21,000 likes, and the comments section is filled with hundreds of positive responses.
Some commenters noted that they’d seen similar stations in their local Target stores.
Target spokesperson Kristy Welker told The Huffington Post there are no immediate plans to roll out this feature in more locations, but that doesn’t rule out the possibility in the future.
“In late 2016, we began testing designated nursing rooms at two stores in Minnesota,” she explained. “We will continue to evaluate guest feedback on this test to determine broader rollout to additional stores and we always appreciate hearing from our guests about how we can better meet their needs.”
Welker added that Target is committed to creating an environment in which shoppers feel comfortable, and the company’s breastfeeding policy, which applies to all stores, is part of that mission.
“Fitting rooms are available for women who wish to breastfeed their babies privately, even if others are waiting to use the fitting rooms,” she said. “Guests who choose to breastfeed in public areas of the store are welcome to do so without being made to feel uncomfortable. Additionally, store leaders are empowered to make decisions that help meet the needs of the guests they serve, as our team did at the New Braunfels store.”
Unlike the “stupid tiny carts” experiment, maybe this Target feature will eventually become more widespread. Clearly, it’s got a lot of fans.
