Target Apologizes for Offending Punk Rock Stans With CBGB-Inspired Awning

Target went totally punk with its new East Village storefront.

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When you think of punk rock’s golden years, Target isn’t exactly the first thing that comes to mind.

The store recreated the iconic CBGB facade to celebrate its grand opening in New York City’s East Village neighborhood, but backlash to the use of punk rock imagery quickly circulated on social media, and Target eventually issued an apology.

The white awning read “TRGT” in the club’s signature red font. Below that, the subtitle promises “BANDS.” While Blondie and the Talking Heads were nowhere to be found, Target employees did hand out free Target-branded Band-Aids and workout bands the day the store opened.

The original CBGB, which closed for good in 2006, stood exactly one mile from the new punk-inspired Target store. A John Varvatos boutique now stands where the famous club once was.

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