The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Shopping Trolley for Your Supermarket

1. Consider Your Store's Size and Layout

The first thing to consider when choosing shopping trolleys is the size and layout of your supermarket. If you have a large retail space, you may need bigger trolleys to accommodate a wider variety of products. For smaller spaces, a more compact trolley might be more appropriate.

Key considerations:

• Large supermarkets: Opt for larger trolleys, such as ARP's S160 (160 Litre Shopping Trolley) and S212 (212L Shopping Trolley), to give customers enough space to carry bulkier items.
• Smaller or convenience stores: A smaller trolley, such as ARP's C70 (70 Litre Shopping Trolley to C100 (100 Litre Shopping Trolley), can be ideal for limited spaces, offering easy navigation without sacrificing too much carrying capacity.

2. Material and Durability

The material of the trolley directly impacts its durability and lifespan. Common materials include steel, plastic, and hybrid options.

• Steel trolleys: These are robust and long-lasting, ideal for heavy use and high-volume environments.
• Plastic trolleys: These are lightweight, rust-proof, and quieter, making them a great option for smaller stores.
• Hybrid trolleys: A blend of steel and plastic, these offer the best of both worlds.

3. Wheel Design and Maneuverability

Wheel quality is crucial for a smooth customer experience. Look for trolleys with high-quality wheels that glide easily and silently, reducing noise and frustration for shoppers.

• Swivel wheels: All four wheels should swivel to allow for 360-degree rotation, making the trolley easy to navigate in tight aisles.
• Smooth bearings: Quality bearings reduce friction and ensure the wheels roll smoothly, even with a heavy load.

4. Ergonomics and Comfort

A well-designed trolley should be comfortable for customers to push and control, no matter their height or strength.

• Ergonomic handles: Opt for handles with a comfortable grip that don't strain the hands.
• Child seats: Choose trolleys with safe, secure child seats to accommodate parents.

5. Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

For supermarkets focused on sustainability, consider trolleys made from recycled or eco-friendly materials.

6. Aesthetics and Brand Image

Your shopping trolleys are an extension of your brand.

• Customisation: Look for suppliers that offer customisation options, such as powder-coating the trolleys in your brand's colours or adding your logo to the handles.

7. Consider Accessibility

Ensure your trolleys are accessible to all customers, including those with disabilities.

• Wheelchair-accessible trolleys: These allow wheelchair users to shop comfortably.

8. Security Features

To reduce the risk of trolley theft and ensure responsible use, consider trolleys with built-in security features, such as:

• Coin-operated locks: These can deter theft and ensure that trolleys are returned to the designated areas.

9. Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your shopping trolleys. Trolleys with removable baskets make cleaning and maintenance easier, ensuring they remain in good condition for longer.

Tips for trolley maintenance:

• Regularly inspect wheels for wear and tear.
• Clean the trolleys periodically to keep them free from dirt and germs.
• Ensure that handles are secure and don't have sharp edges.