Free daily briefing on global business news.

The incident is the latest reputational setback for the retailer as it works to rebuild consumer trust after recent controversies

David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Target $TGT apologized Monday and removed a Halloween costume from sale after critics said it evoked Blackface imagery, sending Target stock down as much as 5% on Tuesday.

The product, sold under Target's Hyde and EEK Boutique brand as the "Kids' Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume," ignited social media criticism from shoppers who said its imagery recalled racist caricatures tied to the minstrel show tradition. "As a company, we know we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry," Target said in a statement. "The costume is offensive and should never have been part of our assortment."