Target’s food and beverage sales grew 7% in the quarter ended August 1, the fastest growth in the business in three years, as new CEO Michael Fiddelke seeks to make grocery a bigger customer draw. Grocery attracts frequent store visits but carries lower margins than apparel, home goods and other discretionary merchandise, leaving Target dependent on converting food trips into broader spending. The retailer plans to add about 600 private-label food and beverage products over the next two years, including 400 under its Good & Gather banner, and expects the initiatives to generate more than $2 billion in growth over the next few years. Traffic rose 3.6% and snack sales increased 15% in the latest quarter, while hardlines business Fun 101 grew 10.6% and beauty sales rose about 7%; home furnishings and apparel were roughly flat. Analysts said the strategy is showing early traction but warned that merchandising overhauls can produce a temporary lift that moderates after two or three quarters. The second half of the year, including back-to-school and holiday shopping, will be a key test.