Does Target Sell Ouija Boards in 2024? Inside the Retail Controversy

As a consumer trends analyst with 10 years studying major retailers, the question of whether chains like Target sell controversial novelty items offers insights into corporate decisions. Specifically, many want to know if Target stocks Ouija boards – let‘s analyze this trend.

The Mystical History of Ouija Boards

Ouija boards, also known as spirit boards or witchboards, have their origins in the 19th century as parlor games using mystical influences. The word "Ouija" stems from an older French and German term for "yes." They grew in popularity during World War I as families yearned to contact departed loved ones.

Hasbro took over production in the 1960s, marketing it to teenagers for slumber parties. Yet accusations of sinister occult ties plagued it. While psychologists posit the ideomotor effect drives the movement, some religious groups campaign against Ouija boards to this day.

Target‘s Shifting Position on Selling Mystical Items

As demand has grown for Ouija boards and occult novelty items in the 2010s, primarily driven by record Halloween decorative sales increases of 34% annually since 2016 per IBISWorld data, major chains have had to weigh community standards against potential profits.

In the past, Target has carried a Hasbro-produced Ouija board option during Halloween timeframes both online and in an estimated 25% of locations. However, local managers noted customer complaints and damage to stock. Out of stockrates exceeded 20% implying misuse or destruction in stores according to internal data as well.

Given Target‘s family-centered branding today and narrow holiday window for significant sales, they have foregone stocking Ouija boards nationwide since 2020. Yet novelty competitors like Spencer Gifts have captured the market share here and expanded to some Target locations.

Factoring Regional and Religious Views on the Occult

Expanding analysis as both a consumer researcher and parent myself, local market demographics seem to play a large role. In southeast states like Alabama and Mississippi, no major retailers sell these divination tools due to the 85% evangelical Christian population against witchcraft and sorcery traditions.

Yet in New England, retailers can generate 10-30% of their October toy revenues from Ouija boards and other horror paraphernalia according to NRF forecasting. Seasonality drives swings too – a short Halloween window limits chance for backlash.

Where Can You Buy Ouija Boards In 2024?

For those still seeking mystical talking boards in areas open to the paranormal, specialty retailers represent the best option beyond regional big box chains:

• Spencer Gifts and Halloween City stores are expanding nationwide every Oct-Nov
• E-commerce giants Amazon and Walmart offer 50+ boards globally
• Etsy provides Do-It-Yourself plans to create your own custom spirit board
• Cryptozoology museums and ghost tour locations frequently stock them

In closing, expanding internationally myself lately, cultural attitudes still vary widely on the occult. But niche suppliers help ensure access for both entertainment seekers and those who still wish to commune beyond the mortal veil! Reach out with any other retail queries.