Discounts and sales events have remained a significant sales driver, as consumers emerge from a more than two-year stretch of high inflation. It’s unclear how much those deals will cut into Target’s and other retailers’ profit margins, and whether sales will keep improving if promotions fade away.

MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis-based Target Corporation reported its quarterly earnings Thursday, showing a slight increase in sales following a holiday boost. Total sales in November and December grew 2.8% — more than in 2023 — according to a Target press release. During Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions, sales reached record highs.