Metal vs. Plastic Shopping Carts – Which is Better?

When you’re shopping in a store, most hardly notice what kind of shopping cart they have. Is it metal or plastic? Each type offers specific benefits for the customer and the store overall. Read more on how Specialty Store Services can help walk you through the durability, cost, and mobility of each type of shopping cart so you can determine the best fit for your retail store!

A Look at the Pros and Cons of Metal and Plastic Shopping Carts

Metal and plastic shopping carts are quite different. Honestly, the only thing making them similar is the fact that each can hold a certain volume of products or merchandise while you’re shopping in a store. Metal shopping carts are more durable than plastic and come in different shapes and sizes. Plastic shopping carts are more lightweight and easier to move around tight aisles or walkways. Sometimes, plastic shopping carts tend to be more affordable than metal shopping carts.

Related Article: Winter ShoppingMaximizing Your Store’s Profits During the Winter Months

How to Choose the Right Cart for Your Needs

When deciding on which type of shopping cart to go with, think about your store’s characteristics. Is your store with tight walkways or aisles? Then, it may need a plastic shopping cart. Is your store in an area where your customers tend to use shopping carts a lot? Metal may be a better option, considering they’re easier to repair and long-lasting. If you’re on a budget constraint, sticking with plastic shopping carts may be the best option. Make a list of which type of cart would suit your store better, and whichever one has the most benefits, pick that one.

The Impact of Shopping Carts on the Environment

The Impact of Shopping Carts on the Environment

Shopping carts can sometimes play a key role if you’re worried about the environment. Plastic shopping carts are sometimes recyclable and can be melted down to be remade into something else, while metal shopping carts are generally more energy-consuming. This can be a deciding factor for some stores, especially if your brand is big on renewable energy. So, make sure to do the research and see if the plastic carts you’re looking for are recyclable. Specialty Store Services has Eco-friendly plastic shopping carts, so make sure to check them out first!

Related Article: What Your Store Layout Says About You

Understanding the Different Types of Carts Available on the Market

It isn’t just as simple as picking plastic or metal when it comes to shopping carts. There are a ton of different types to choose from. Specialty Store Services has double basket carts, rust-free, double-hand baskets, and even a kid’s shopping cart! Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you compare what’s important most to what each shopping cart can provide. Also, other factors to consider are how many handicapped customers you have, how many products you carry, if you have heavier inventory than other stores, and overall store layout. These factors should give you a better idea of which carts are best for you.

Summary

Choosing the right shopping cart can take a lot longer than you’d initially think. Metal and plastic shopping carts each carry their own advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you understand the any potential drawbacks and which would be more beneficial for your store. Then, you’re ready to make a purchasing decision. Head over to Specialty Store Services so that they can provide you with quality shopping carts no matter the type!