Shopping trolleys are essential tools for customers navigating the aisles of supermarkets and retail stores. However, without proper shelter, these trolleys can become damaged or misplaced, inconveniencing customers and store staff. Having to constantly replace rusting or damaged shopping carts is also an expense that you can avoid by taking better care of them. One of the best ways to do that is by installing a shopping trolley shelter, which can help mitigate these issues, but choosing the right location is crucial for maximising its effectiveness.
Protecting trolleys from the elements is essential for maintaining their condition and prolonging their lifespan. When selecting a location for a trolley shelter, consider areas that provide adequate protection from rain, snow, and harsh sunlight. Installing shelters near building entrances or under covered walkways helps shield trolleys from inclement weather, preserving their usability and appearance.
In this post, we’ll explore some key considerations for finding the best place to install a shopping trolley shelter.
Near Store Entrances
Placing a trolley shelter near or immediately near your store’s entrance is the best choice. It is practical, convenient and will be appreciated by both customers and staff.
This location is great because it is convenient for all your customers, regardless of whether they have arrived by car and parked at the car park or by foot. Everyone will need to pass through the entrance area and can easily pick up a trolley. Customers can access trolleys as soon as they enter the premises, streamlining their shopping experience and encouraging people to shop more.
Likewise, staff can quickly retrieve trolleys from the shelter to ensure there are always enough available for incoming customers.
Lastly, installing your trolley shelter near the entrance means good visibility from both inside the store and the surrounding area. This helps deter theft and vandalism while also providing a sense of security for customers. Placing the shelter within view of security cameras or store staff can further enhance security measures.
Conveniently Located in Car Parks
Alternatively, the second best location to install a shopping cart shelter is the car park. For customers who prefer to drive to the store, strategically placing trolley shelters in parking lots is very convenient. It is easy to access, and once they’ve loaded their bags into their car, they only need to walk a little to return their trolley. Placing trolley shelters and designated trolley return areas closer to parking spaces encourages customers to return their trolleys after use, reducing the likelihood of abandoned carts cluttering parking spaces.
However, keep in mind that this may be convenient for drivers but not so much for pedestrians, as they will need to walk to the shelter to get a trolley and then walk back once they’re done with their shopping. Ensure the trolley shelter is not located somewhere too deep into the car park but close to the entrance.
Close to High-Traffic Areas
Identifying high-traffic areas within the store premises is another key factor in determining the ideal location for a trolley shelter. If you have different entrances or multiple buildings, placing shelters near busy paths or popular stores ensures easy accessibility for customers as they move through the store. By strategically positioning shelters in these areas, customers are more likely to return their trolleys promptly, keeping them readily available for others.
Create a Mix
Saying all of the above, we have often found that the most thorough and practical strategy, if space is not an issue, is to create a good mix location-wise.
Ideally, you would place a shelter with shopping trolleys at the entrance, which would cater to people on foot and be perfectly accessible to anyone with a car, too, since they have to pass that area to get to the shop anyway. Then you should also install a shelter deeper into the car park to make it easier for drivers to pick a trolley up on their way to the shop but, even more importantly, to be able to drop it off somewhere close by when they are done loading their bags in the car. Alternatively, install several small shelters around the car park, if it is very large, so there is a designated trolley return area close to everyone regardless of where they’ve parked.
Doing this will encourage people to return the trolleys to their proper place, making your staff’s lives easier and your parking space tidier. Plus, installing shelters in several locations will keep customers happy regardless of how they travel to the shop. Leaving a good first impression and having an easy time shopping every subsequent time is the key to customer loyalty and better business.
Accessibility for Maintenance
Finally, when making a decision, consider accessibility for maintenance purposes. Selecting a spot that allows maintenance staff easy access ensures prompt repairs and upkeep as needed. Additionally, proximity to storage areas for replacement trolleys or spare parts can streamline maintenance operations and minimise downtime.
Finding the perfect spot for your shopping trolley shelter requires careful consideration of factors such as convenience for customers and staff, protection from the elements, and accessibility for maintenance. By strategically placing shelters in high-traffic areas, near store entrances, and within parking lots, you can enhance the shopping experience for customers while ensuring the efficient management of trolleys within your premises.