Target revealed on Thursday that it will be laying off 1,800 corporate employees as part of a strategic restructuring plan to reignite growth after several years of stagnant sales. This marks the first major round of layoffs in a decade for the Minneapolis-based retailer, with the eliminated roles consisting of both employee layoffs and positions that will no longer be filled. The cuts represent an approximately 8% reduction in Target’s corporate workforce, with affected employees set to be notified next week.

The decision comes as Target nears a leadership transition, with incoming CEO Michael Fiddelke set to take the helm on February 1. Fiddelke, who has been instrumental in the company’s efforts to simplify operations and foster growth, emphasized in a memo to employees that the cuts are a necessary step towards building a more agile and efficient organization. While the layoffs may be difficult, he stated that they are crucial in driving the future progress and growth of Target. Target employees impacted by the layoffs will receive pay, benefits, and severance packages until January 3, with no roles in stores or the supply chain affected by the cuts.