Quant Ratings Updated on 53 Stocks Retailers have begun prepping for the holiday season with as much eagerness as shoppers who are looking forward to eye-popping deals. This season, which accounts for a sizable chunk of yearly revenues, is a make or break for retailers. And Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT ) is no exception. In a press release on September 22, Target announced its plans for the all-important holiday shopping season. The company said it will begin discounting merchandise “earlier than ever” this year, beginning with its “biggest ever Target Deal Days event,” which will take place October 6 to 8. And given the state of the overall economy, investors are no doubt considering the ramifications of a longer holiday shopping season. Earlier deals, deeper discounts, and greater competition will likely continue to weigh on already pressured operating margins. While inflation has eased somewhat, it is still near 40-year highs, causing consumers to make tough decisions at stores and fuel pumps. And while a longer shopping season and deeper discounts might attract more holiday shoppers, it’s a double-edged sword – and despite the early deals, Target and other retailers may not get a big boost this holiday season.