Find out in this article.
- Maxime Perrin
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
We often think of a shopping trolley as a simple logistical tool in a store. But several studies confirm this: the type and size of the container you provide to your customers can directly influence their purchasing behavior.
What if you could increase your sales… just by changing your trolleys?
Consumer behavior: influenced by trolley size
Multiple studies have shown a simple psychological phenomenon: the larger the trolley, the more we tend to fill it.
A study published in the Journal of Marketing Research found that customers using large shopping trolleys bought on average 40% more products than those using baskets or smaller trolleys.
📌 Source: Journal of Marketing Research, Do Larger Shopping Carts Increase Purchases? (2011, confirmed by later studies).
Why? The explanation is both visual and psychological: a half-empty trolley gives the impression that we haven't bought “enough” yet. Subconsciously, the shopper keeps going.
Trolley vs Basket:
un impacto medible
en el ticket medio
Here are a few findings observed in both food and non-food retail:
Type of container | Observed behavior | Effect on sales |
Small hand basket | Quick, targeted shopping | Low average basket value |
Rolling basket | More comfort = more purchases | +10 to 20% on average |
Compact trolley (70L) | Ideal for small supermarkets | Moderate average basket value |
Large trolley (100L and up) | Bulk shopping, weekly groceries | Average basket value +30 to 40% |
The trolley is not neutral. It sends a clear message to the customer: "You can buy in bulk here."In supermarkets, garden centers, or discount stores, this is a key factor.
Which trolley for which type of store?
Every store format has different needs:
Convenience store: compact trolley or rolling basket for narrow aisles.
Supermarket / Hypermarket: 100L–150L trolley with child seat, ideal for families.
Discount / Bargain store: large, reinforced trolley for high-volume impulse buys.
Garden center or DIY store: platform trolley or roll container for heavy loads.
Adapting your trolley offer to your clientele means optimizing both the shopping experience and your results.
How to boost your sales with the right trolley choice?
Here are a few simple but effective tips:
Offer multiple options: trolley + basket = double the convenience.
Focus on ergonomics: an easy-to-handle trolley = more time in-store.
Add features like bag holders or child seats: a hit with families.
Prioritize appearance: a clean, sturdy, well-maintained trolley inspires confidence.
Conclusion
Yes, a shopping trolley can truly boost your sales, without a huge investment.It’s a tool often underestimated, yet it plays a central role in the customer experience.
At Cart City, we help retailers choose the trolley that best fits their space, clientele, and goals.
Need expert advice or a personalized quote?Contact us or browse our online catalog!
Cart City : Your Partner for Store Equipment
At Cart City, we understand that time is valuable. That’s why we’ve launched our online store to provide easy and fast access to all your store equipment needs.
Simplify your life by ordering shopping trolleys, baskets, roll containers, and folding crates in just a few clicks.Faster, easier, and always European quality.
Explore our online store and step into the future of retail !
#ÉquipementMagasin #MatérielCommerce #RetailSolutions #ChariotsDeSupermarché #PaniersMagasin #MatérielRetail #AménagementMagasin #LogistiqueMagasin #TransportMarchandises #RetailEquipment #ShoppingCarts #StoreFixtures #RetailSolutions #PointOfSale #BoutiqueEnLigne #AchatPro #FournisseurRetail #StockageEtTransport #ÉquipementProfessionnel
Comments