1. It Reduces Lost or Abandoned Carts
One of the biggest problems for supermarkets is lost or abandoned carts. When carts are left in parking lots or taken offsite, stores must spend money and labor retrieving them or replacing them.
At Aldi, the coin-operated system encourages customers to return carts to the designated area. When customers put the cart back and retrieve their coin, fewer carts are left in random places.
Benefit: Fewer lost carts means lower costs for the store — and less clutter in the parking lot.
2. It Keeps Costs Lower — for Everyone
Aldi is known for its low-price model, and this cart system plays directly into that strategy. Rather than charging higher prices to cover the costs of staff members constantly collecting carts, Aldi shares that small cost with the customer upfront.
The money from the cart deposit isn’t a surcharge — it’s fully returned when the cart is returned.
Result: Aldi can spend less on labor and maintenance and pass those savings on to customers through lower prices.
3. It Encourages Responsibility and Better Behavior
The cart deposit system subtly encourages customers to take responsibility for returning their carts neatly. This reduces the need for store staff to chase down carts and allows employees to focus more on stocking shelves and helping customers — tasks that directly improve the shopping experience.
Better outcomes include:
Cleaner parking lots
Fewer damaged carts
More efficient staff time
4. It’s an Eco-Friendly Approach
Although not often highlighted, this system can also promote sustainability. When carts are returned and used correctly, fewer carts break or wear out prematurely. This reduces the need for replacement carts and lowers waste over time.
5. The Practice Isn’t Unique — It’s Smart Business
While not widespread in every country, coin-operated cart systems are common in Europe, where Aldi originated. Many smaller grocers and discount stores use the same approach because it works: it reduces theft, minimizes staffing needs, and keeps operational costs low.
What Customers Think
Some customers may initially find the cart deposit requirement unusual, especially if they’re used to free carts everywhere. But most shoppers quickly appreciate that:
✔ They get their coin back
✔ Parking lots stay tidier
✔ Lower costs contribute to lower prices1. It Reduces Lost or Abandoned Carts
One of the biggest problems for supermarkets is lost or abandoned carts. When carts are left in parking lots or taken offsite, stores must spend money and labor retrieving them or replacing them.
At Aldi, the coin-operated system encourages customers to return carts to the designated area. When customers put the cart back and retrieve their coin, fewer carts are left in random places.
Benefit: Fewer lost carts means lower costs for the store — and less clutter in the parking lot.
2. It Keeps Costs Lower — for Everyone
Aldi is known for its low-price model, and this cart system plays directly into that strategy. Rather than charging higher prices to cover the costs of staff members constantly collecting carts, Aldi shares that small cost with the customer upfront.
The money from the cart deposit isn’t a surcharge — it’s fully returned when the cart is returned.
Result: Aldi can spend less on labor and maintenance and pass those savings on to customers through lower prices.
3. It Encourages Responsibility and Better Behavior
The cart deposit system subtly encourages customers to take responsibility for returning their carts neatly. This reduces the need for store staff to chase down carts and allows employees to focus more on stocking shelves and helping customers — tasks that directly improve the shopping experience.
Better outcomes include:
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