Business Briefs – March 20, 2017

Target Revamps Stores for Those In a Rush, Those Who Browse

NEW YORK (AP) – Target is embarking on an ambitious redesign of its stores. It’s aimed at helping people who need to dash in for milk get out quickly while encouraging those who want to wander the aisles to linger. The remodeling, which will touch more than 600 of its 1,800 stores in the next three years, is part of the company’s plan to rev up sales growth and turn around customer traffic declines.

Already in Peril, Rural Hospitals Unsure on Health Care Bill

CLAXTON, Ga. (AP) – Rural hospitals and communities are watching the health care debate in Congress closely. Those hospitals face numerous challenges such as patients who are older, suffer from chronic illness and are more likely to be on Medicaid or Medicare. One research program says at least 80 rural hospitals have closed since 2010. And many question whether rural hospitals will fare better under the recently unveiled Republican health care plan.

Deep South Freeze Means Fewer Blueberries and Peaches

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – Last week’s deep freeze in the Southeast appears to have nearly wiped out Georgia’s blueberries and South Carolina’s peaches. Georgia might be the Peach State, but blueberries have recently passed peaches in value. South Carolina is the second biggest peach producer in the United States, behind only California. Between the two states, crop losses from the freeze could approach $1 billion.

Wells Fargo Still Feeling Impact Of Sales Practices Scandal

NEW YORK (AP) – Wells Fargo is still seeing fewer people at its bank branches as well as a decline in checking-account openings as the scandal over its sales practices takes its toll. But there is a silver lining for the bank: Its February numbers are up from December lows.