Target won't sell Beyoncé CD due to iTunes-exclusive launch
Superstar Beyoncé's self-titled album is breaking all sorts of records thanks to incredible marketing on the Apple iTunes store, but that has retailer Target a bit miffed. The company has reported that it won't sell the CD version because the record had its original release on iTunes before Target and other retailers had a chance to sell it.
Billboard notes that Target had built up a strong marketing relationship with Beyoncé in the past, with one of her previous albums -- 4 -- offered in an exclusive Target-only version with six bonus tracks. In a rather terse statement, a Target spokesperson told Billboard:
At Target we focus on offering our guests a wide assortment of physical CDs, and when a new album is available digitally before it is available physically, it impacts demand and sales projections. While there are many aspects that contribute to our approach and we have appreciated partnering with Beyoncé in the past, we are primarily focused on offering CDs that will be available in a physical format at the same time as all other formats. At this time, Target will not be carrying Beyoncé's new self-titled album Beyoncé.
It's unknown if the sour grapes attitude of Target will extend to Apple products. We reported that iPad sales were one of the Black Friday hits at Target and other retailers, so it's unlikely that the company will seek vengeance on Apple.
