Is the New Target in El Monte Meeting Expectations?

Since opening in October 2024, the Target at 3610 Peck Road in El Monte, California, has drawn a steady stream of customers. With a 4.5-star rating on Google and a mix of positive and constructive feedback, let’s break down how this new location is performing.


Customer Reviews: The Good and the Not-So-Good

What Shoppers Love

  • Size and Selection: Many visitors appreciate the store’s spacious layout and well-stocked shelves.
    • “Pretty large store with a good selection of products that you’d typically find at a general merchandise store.” – Google Review
  • Clean and Organized: Customers consistently highlight the cleanliness and well-arranged aisles.
    • “Very nice & clean Target. Well-organized aisles and friendly staff.” – Yelp
  • Starbucks Inside: The in-store Starbucks is a favorite perk, offering shoppers a quick coffee break.
  • Ample Parking: Unlike other urban Target locations, parking availability is a major plus here.

Where It Could Improve

  • Checkout Speed: A few reviews mention that the checkout lines can be slow, particularly during peak hours.
    • “Staff was really helpful, but the checkout took longer than expected.” – Yelp
  • Employee Assistance: While some customers praise the service, others feel it could be more consistent.
  • Busy Peak Hours: Several reviews note that weekends can get crowded, making shopping a bit hectic.


Social Media and Community Buzz

  • Reddit users were excited about the opening, with some discussing job opportunities at the store.
    • “My friend got hired at the new El Monte Target! Grand opening was Oct 13!”Reddit
  • Instagram posts from the El Monte Police Department show that the store has already hosted community events.


A Look Back: The History of This Location

Before becoming a Target, this location at 3610 Peck Road housed a Sears Outlet, which closed in early 2020. For years, it was a go-to spot for discounted home appliances and tools.

El Monte’s Retail Evolution

  • In the 1950s-70s, downtown El Monte was a bustling shopping hub.
  • As big-box stores became more common, retail shifted towards larger shopping centers like this one.
  • The closure of Sears reflected a nationwide trend of legacy department stores struggling, paving the way for Target’s expansion into the space.

Now, with Target’s arrival, the area is seeing a new wave of retail activity, bringing back shoppers and boosting the local economy.



Final Thoughts

Four months in, Target El Monte is proving to be a strong addition to the community. It’s clean, well-stocked, and convenient, but like any new store, it has a few areas to refine. If checkout efficiency improves, it could easily become a top-tier shopping destination in the San Gabriel Valley.

Last Updated on February 26, 2025 by F.E.M

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