Target gets S.F. logistics firm

Target is buying a San Francisco company as one of the moves it announced Monday to shore up two key areas: groceries and delivery.

The retailer is buying delivery logistics company Grand Junction for an undisclosed price to help with same-day delivery to in-store shoppers. Grand Junction software connects retailers with about 700 companies that pick up items from stores or distribution centers and take them to customers.

Expanding delivery and making it faster have been key areas for retailers trying to attract convenience-seeking shoppers. Target and Walmart have adjusted their shipping programs as they try to lure online shoppers away from Amazon.

Target has been working with Grand Junction to test same-day delivery at a New York store. Shoppers there can ask to have heavy bags, a sofa or anything else delivered that day for a fee, which is based on time and location.

Target plans to expand the service to other New York locations this year, and then bring it to other major cities next year. The company eventually plans to use the software to offer faster deliveries for online orders.

To boost its grocery business, Target said it hired executives from Walmart and General Mills. Target’s grocery section hasn’t been as big a draw for shoppers as the department has been for Walmart.

Mark Kenny, who will join Target from Walmart this month, will oversee the meat, seafood and deli sections. Former General Mills executive Liz Nordlie will run Target’s privately owned food and beverage brands.