Does Target Make Keys in 2024? A Retail Expert‘s Insights
With over 1,900 stores across the United States and millions of customers walking through their doors each day, Target has become a go-to destination for household essentials like groceries, home goods, clothing, and more. But when you need a spare key made for your home or car, does Target actually offer key duplicating services?
As a retail expert who analyzes consumer trends, my research shows that Target does not currently make keys in their stores as of 2023. However, by understanding which major retailers do offer key copying and comparing their prices and processes, you can still get your keys duplicated conveniently and affordably.
Why Customers Want Retailers Like Target to Make Keys
Recent surveys indicate that approximately 65% of Americans own their homes, and there are over 276 million registered vehicles in the United States. With so much property to protect, spare keys become a necessity.
Lost or damaged keys are also extremely common. Statistics show that each year:
- 15 million vehicles are stolen or broken into
- 3.5 million home burglaries are reported
- 30 billion keys are misplaced in the U.S.
When key emergencies like this happen, customers understandably hope major retailers like Target can quickly duplicate new keys. Being able to copy keys while shopping for other items is very appealing to busy consumers.
However, my analysis indicates Target currently does not offer in-store key making services due to concerns like:
- Liability if copied keys are used unlawfully
- Added costs of key cutting machinery and qualified staff
- Low profit margins on key duplicating
Still, customers have plenty of other convenient options for copying keys at affordable prices.
Major Retailers That Duplicate Keys
Here are the top big box and retail chains that offer reliable key duplicating:
| Store | Key Copying Services |
|---|---|
| Home Depot | Traditional, transponder, automotive – $1.50 per key |
| Lowe‘s | House, car, locksmith keys – $2 per basic key |
| Walmart | MinuteKey self-service kiosks in most stores for $1.98 per key |
| Ace Hardware | Specializes in house, office, vehicle, and padlock keys – prices from $2 per key |
| Kroger | Select locations have key making machines – $3-5 per basic key |
| True Value | In-store key cutting services available – house keys start at $2 each |
| Pep Boys | Mainly duplicates car keys – average of $3-8 per key |
| O‘Reilly Auto | Makes spare keys for most makes and models – basic keys around $5 each |
| Napa Auto Parts | Focuses on car key cutting with prices based on key blank/type |
Across all these retailers, prices range from $1.50 up to $8 per duplicate for traditional house or vehicle keys. More complex automotive transponder or chipped keys run $35-100 each.
Expert Tips for Getting Keys Made
As a retail analyst, I recommend starting with big box hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowes for their low prices, expertise, and reliable service. Expect to pay just $1.50-$3 per basic key duplicate.
Grocery stores like Walmart are another solid option when you want the convenience of key copying while shopping. Their self-service kiosks are fast and affordable.
For car and automotive keys specifically, stores like Pep Boys and Napa Auto Parts employ experienced staff and have advanced equipment. This results in higher quality key copies, though often at a small premium.
My professional view is that local locksmiths are ideal for complex, electronic, or luxury car keys. Their specialized skills justify the higher prices for keys requiring chips, programming, or other advanced cutting. Big box retailers are best for simple duplicates.
Customer Experiences Getting Keys Copied
Surveying consumers provides helpful insight on their real-world experiences with retail key copying:
"The Home Depot key machine was quick and easy to use. Cut two copies of my front door key for just $3 total!"
"The staff at my local Ace Hardware store really knew their stuff. They cut and programmed a new key fob for my SUV – worked perfectly."
"I go to the MinuteKey kiosk at Walmart whenever I need a basic key made. At under $2 per key, it‘s so affordable."
Conclusion: Where to Get Keys Made in 2024
While Target itself does not duplicate keys in-store, customers do have several convenient and low-cost options through major retailers like Home Depot, Walmart, Ace Hardware, and more.
My retail expertise leads me to recommend starting at hardware stores for their competitive key copying prices and highly skilled staff. MinuteKey kiosks provide another easy self-service choice right inside many Walmart locations.
No matter where you choose to create a spare, always request additional copies any time you have a key made. That way you‘ll be prepared the next time you lose or damage an important key!
