Target names vendor partners for e-commerce platform relaunch

National retailer Target has selected a number of vendor partners to help it build and manage a relaunched Target.com e-commerce platform, which is set to be completed in August of next year.

Target's e-commerce partners will include Sapient as lead partner and integrator; IBM for multichannel and e-commerce; Oracle for database capabilities; and Endeca for search and navigation, according to a statement from the retailer.

Autonomy will provide content and digital asset-management functionality, while Sterling Commerce will provide global inventory visibility and cross-channel order-management functionality. Huge will provide visual and interaction design.

Leah Guimond, a Target spokeswoman, said the improved site will have updated functionality.

“We'll have enhanced search and navigation on the site, which will make browsing on the site a more natural experience,” she explained. “We're also going to have a streamlined card and checkout process.”

She added that the site will feature unique experiences within product categories, but could not elaborate on that aspect of the site.

The brand's e-commerce site is now run by Amazon.com, but Target announced last summer that it was taking control of the platform.

Recently, Target made its mobile and social media offerings a centerpiece of its holiday promotions, with checklists, videos, registries and gift finders available on its mobile site. Consumers were also able to opt-in for e-mails or texts promoting daily deals.

The retailer eliminated 85 positions in its marketing department last October as part of a reorganization.