Not an unreasonable request. It's good to take a stand on issue alone. I find it difficult to imagine, though I'm sure it happens, that any company would leave a sore "manager impared" because one is on vacation. That alone shows a lack of responsibility on their part.

I just don't folow the "I don't ever want to step foot in Target again" part, then offer them some sound advice that makes sense.
If I was treated like this, the LAST thing I'd do is tell them how to do a better job. Since I'm not going there again.