Kmart introduces one new security measure in select stores to combat this problem
- Replies 29
Supermarkets have changed over the years.
With the rise of theft cases in Australia, some supermarkets and retailers have been forced to apply several security measures.
A retailer's recent decision sparked a debate among shoppers in one state.
Kmart stores across Queensland introduced coin-operated shopping trolleys.
Approximately 30 per cent of Kmart stores in Queensland should apply these in-store changes soon.
The new system should require shoppers to use a $1 or $2 coin to unlock a trolley.
Once customers are done with shopping, they will receive a refund of the coin used.
Kmart's new initiative was to encourage customers to return their carts to designated bays after use, minimising trolley clutter around parking lots and public spaces.
Another retail giant, ALDI, has been using coin-operated trolleys for years.
ALDI shoppers have been accustomed to using coins or unique tokens to use trolleys, a system that has proven effective in keeping their storefronts orderly.
Kmart's decision was more than just about tidiness; it was also about safety among shoppers.
Abandoned trolleys could pose significant risks to pedestrians and drivers.
Some shoppers praised the retailer's initiative.
Shoppers believed that these coin-operated trolleys could alleviate the financial burden on retailers who have to replace or repair stolen and damaged trolleys.
'It just makes sure the carts are all put back in the right place,' one shopper shared.
However, the sudden implementation at Kmart has taken some customers by surprise, leading to a divide in opinion.
Several shoppers found the change frustrating.
'Many people, including me, never carry change,' a shopper lamented.
Another expressed concern about potential job losses.
'There goes the job of the trolley collector. Now we, the customer, have to do it all,' another said.
In light of the discussion, Kmart clarified that this is not a nationwide policy.
However, it is a targeted approach in response to local council regulations on trolley containment systems in Queensland.
The retailer also shared that they are considering shoppers' feedback and have started reviewing for potential rollouts in other areas.
Despite the mixed reactions, there are practical solutions for those who may find themselves without a coin at hand.
Some savvy shoppers suggested keeping a dedicated gold coin in the car or using tokens from other supermarkets that could be attached to a keychain.
Additionally, some shoppers said that it is okay to 'pay it forward' by passing the trolley, with the coin still inside, to the next shopper in need.
Have you encountered coin-operated trolleys at your local stores? Will this system improve the shopping experience, or is it an unnecessary hassle? Share your experiences and thoughts about this change in the comments below!
With the rise of theft cases in Australia, some supermarkets and retailers have been forced to apply several security measures.
A retailer's recent decision sparked a debate among shoppers in one state.
Kmart stores across Queensland introduced coin-operated shopping trolleys.
Approximately 30 per cent of Kmart stores in Queensland should apply these in-store changes soon.
The new system should require shoppers to use a $1 or $2 coin to unlock a trolley.
Once customers are done with shopping, they will receive a refund of the coin used.
Trolleys have been stolen and abandoned in some areas in Queensland. Image Credit: Pexels/Sonny Sixteen
Kmart's new initiative was to encourage customers to return their carts to designated bays after use, minimising trolley clutter around parking lots and public spaces.
Another retail giant, ALDI, has been using coin-operated trolleys for years.
ALDI shoppers have been accustomed to using coins or unique tokens to use trolleys, a system that has proven effective in keeping their storefronts orderly.
Kmart's decision was more than just about tidiness; it was also about safety among shoppers.
Abandoned trolleys could pose significant risks to pedestrians and drivers.
Some shoppers praised the retailer's initiative.
Shoppers believed that these coin-operated trolleys could alleviate the financial burden on retailers who have to replace or repair stolen and damaged trolleys.
'It just makes sure the carts are all put back in the right place,' one shopper shared.
However, the sudden implementation at Kmart has taken some customers by surprise, leading to a divide in opinion.
Several shoppers found the change frustrating.
'Many people, including me, never carry change,' a shopper lamented.
Another expressed concern about potential job losses.
'There goes the job of the trolley collector. Now we, the customer, have to do it all,' another said.
In light of the discussion, Kmart clarified that this is not a nationwide policy.
However, it is a targeted approach in response to local council regulations on trolley containment systems in Queensland.
The retailer also shared that they are considering shoppers' feedback and have started reviewing for potential rollouts in other areas.
Despite the mixed reactions, there are practical solutions for those who may find themselves without a coin at hand.
Some savvy shoppers suggested keeping a dedicated gold coin in the car or using tokens from other supermarkets that could be attached to a keychain.
Additionally, some shoppers said that it is okay to 'pay it forward' by passing the trolley, with the coin still inside, to the next shopper in need.
.png){kind=icon}
