Shopping Baskets and Trolleys

Shopping baskets and trolleys are a key element of retail psychology — studies consistently show that customers with a shopping basket or trolley spend more time in the store and purchase 30–50% more products compared to customers without. Therefore, the optimal number of baskets and trolleys and their strategic placement at the store entrance and around the perimeter of the space is an effective tool for increasing store turnover. In food retail, shopping baskets and trolleys are an essential and significant investment element.

Shopping baskets

Plastic shopping baskets are the most common — lightweight, available in various colours to match the store’s corporate identity, durable and easy to clean. A standard plastic basket holds 15–25 litres of products — suitable for small purchases and fast shopping flow. Plastic baskets with two handles allow for easier carrying of heavy loads.

Metal baskets made of stainless steel or coated metal are more durable than plastic alternatives and are better suited for premium store formats. Stainless steel baskets create a more elegant visual impression. Baskets with wheels (trolleys) make it easier to transport heavier purchases.

Shopping trolleys

Large shopping trolleys (trolleys) are the standard in supermarkets — trolleys with a capacity of 120–200 litres allow customers to purchase a large quantity of goods in one visit. Trolleys with a smaller additional basket at the front are particularly convenient for families with small children. Electronic trolleys with built-in scales or scanners are an innovative solution for large retail spaces.

Plastic trolleys are lighter and less noisy than metal versions. Metal trolleys are more durable for intensive use. Both types require regular cleaning and wheel maintenance. Also explore other store equipment — Shop Display Cases and shelf display cases.

Hygiene and maintenance

Shopping baskets and trolleys are among the most frequently touched objects in a store — every customer comes into contact with them, making them a potential pathway for pathogen transmission. Regular cleaning and disinfection of baskets and trolleys is a HACCP best practice element in food shops. Automated basket disinfection stations at the store entrance are a standard in modern supermarkets.

Damaged baskets with sharp edges or broken handles should be removed from circulation, as they can pose a risk of injury. Trolley wheels should be regularly checked and lubricated. Store staff should ensure that baskets and trolleys are regularly collected from the space and returned to the entrance.

HoReCa and retail scenarios

In food retail shops, the shopping basket and trolley system is refined by experienced operators — optimising the size, number and placement of baskets is part of retail zone design. At the entrance area of a large store, a basket stand with several dozen baskets and a trolley placement zone is usually installed.

Also explore refrigerators for a shop, retail freezer display cases and other retail display cases and equipment for food retail.

Frequently asked questions

How many shopping baskets are needed for a store? Approximately 1 basket per 10–15 sq.m of retail space is a practical starting point. The actual number depends on visitor flow, the length of the shopping cycle and the return system (whether baskets are returned to the entrance or at various points in the space).

What is the optimal basket-to-trolley ratio in a store? For smaller food shops (up to 200 sq.m), a ratio of 70–80% baskets and 20–30% trolleys is recommended. In large supermarkets (over 1000 sq.m), the proportion of trolleys increases to 50–60%, as larger purchases require the capacity of a trolley. The basket-to-trolley ratio should be adapted to the specific shopping habits of the store’s customers.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.