Is 'showrooming' behind Target's Kindle move?

Is 'showrooming' behind Target's Kindle move?

Now that Target has confirmed it will no longer carry any e-readers or tablets from Amazon's Kindle product line, the next question is: why?

While some readers have suggested this may have been influenced by Apple -- whose devices will be featured in Target through mini-shops at 25 of its stores -- there may be another larger issue prompting this: 'showrooming.'

What is 'showrooming?' Basically, it's when consumers check out products at a retailer like Target, then go home or check their smartphones for a better price online.

The Associated Press hints at this, but The New York Times reports it's a big reason why consumers won't see the Kindle Fire or other Amazon products on Target shelves. Earlier this year, Target reportedly told vendors in a letter it wouldn't let online retailers turn their stores into showrooms and "undercut our prices.'

Retailers seem to be catching on to the practice, as The Wall Street Journal reported last month, adding services or special deals to entice shoppers to buy in stores.

Readers, do you 'showroom?' Tell us why, and share your strategies below.