indkøbsvogn

An indkøbsvogn is a wheeled shopping cart used in supermarkets and markets to transport goods during shopping. The typical cart consists of a frame made from metal or plastic, a basket or two stacked baskets, wheels, and a handle. Many models include a smaller upper basket and a lower shelf, a fold-down child seat, and sometimes a liner or bag.

Origin and spread: The modern shopping cart was developed in the United States in the late 1930s by Sylvan Goldman, and was soon adopted in retail worldwide. In Denmark, indkøbsvogne are standard equipment in most grocery stores, and some stores use coin deposits to release carts, a system that encourages customers to return them to designated areas.

Design and variants: Standard configurations include two- or three-wheel frames, with wire mesh baskets or plastic tubs. Materials range from galvanized steel to reinforced plastics. Wheels are typically polyurethane or rubber; handles may have rubber grips. Variants include child-seat models, compact carts for narrow aisles, and foldable trolleys for storage.

Usage and safety: Carts are released at the entrance with a coin or token in many stores, and must be returned to reclaim the deposit. Users should observe weight limits, avoid overfilling, and be mindful of pinch points, curbs, and other pedestrians to prevent accidents or damage.

Maintenance and impact: Stores perform regular cleaning and repair to ensure safety and reliability. Carts are designed for durability and ease of cleaning; hygiene regulations and safety standards may apply in different regions. Economically, indkøbsvogne facilitate bulk shopping and reduce reliance on disposable bags, while generating maintenance and end-of-life considerations for retailers.