Shopping cart in supermarket aisle

The supermarket shopping cart revolutionized the shopping experience since the 1930s, becoming an icon of modern retail.

About this subject

Shopping carts are essential devices in grocery retail, designed to help customers transport goods efficiently. Invented in 1937 by Sylvan N. Goldman in Oklahoma City, USA, they addressed the challenge of manually carrying items. Before their invention, shoppers used small baskets or relied on clerks for assistance. The shopping cart boosted customer autonomy and dwell time in stores.

Standardization came with Stanley Westinghouse's design, featuring lighter wheels and anti-tip mechanisms. In the 1980s, safety belts for children were added, a practice common in the US and Europe. In Brazil, shopping carts became widespread in the 1960s, becoming part of daily consumer life. Today, over 400 million carts are in use globally, according to Walmart data.

Beyond practicality, carts are tools for marketing strategies. Retailers arrange them to guide customer traffic, placing promotional items near checkout zones. Interestingly, a typical cart holds 25 kg, accommodating 50-70 items depending on product size and weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the supermarket shopping cart invented?

The shopping cart was invented in 1937 by Sylvan N. Goldman in Oklahoma City, USA.

How many shopping carts are in use worldwide today?

Over 400 million shopping carts are in use globally, according to Walmart data.

Why do shopping carts have safety belts for children?

Safety belts were introduced in the 1980s to prevent children from moving away from their parents while shopping.