As the new year approaches and consumer sentiment remains mixed in a turbulent economy, many consumers are pulling back on non-essential purchases. Meanwhile, items like groceries and healthcare-related items are being prioritized. A recent McKinsey report on retail trends reveals that products like meat and dairy, baby supplies, center-store and shelf-stable groceries, and (to a lesser extent) fresh produce will continue to see spending preferences. Semi-discretionary purchases are also expected to make the list of must-haves. This includes household supplies, personal care products, beauty products, and vitamins and supplements.

For store owners and managers engaged in 2026 retail planning, prioritizing customer convenience and strategically placing carts and baskets can make a difference going into next year.

The right shopping cart upgrade can also directly improve store optimization, reducing friction and increasing the likelihood of more robust purchases, while a range of basket sizes can instantly resonate with those on a mission to make it a quick trip.

Strategies for Shopping Carts & Baskets to Improve Sales and Operations

Both carts and baskets play key roles in generating retail revenue, and going into a tricky year like 2026 will mean hitting every single tactic to optimize the consumer experience. This is the year to focus on securing loyalty and encouraging customers to spend on what they need, while providing the psychological nudges that drive higher sales and perceived value.

Executing on these goals can come down to something as small as a clean and well-functioning shopping cart. A gleaming shopping cart speaks to a clean and well-maintained store, providing customers with the confidence they need to shop for everything on their list.

When a shopping cart rides smoothly and is easy to push through the aisles, the customer is more likely to see their shopping errands through. Carts with wheels that wobble or stick can interrupt an otherwise seamless experience, halting the purchase process out of sheer frustration.

If there’s no physical strain or friction associated with a big shop, not only will items on the list be plucked from your shelves, but there’s also a good chance that impulse buys will increase. More room in your clean, easy-to-maneuver cart means customers will feel more motivated to fill it up.

When it comes to handheld baskets, incentivizing extra purchases can be a challenge, but there are a few things you can do to optimize these in-and-out trips for increased spend. This begins with a clean and organized stack of baskets in at least a couple of different sizes at the entrance of your store and in key traffic areas.

A 2024 industry report recommends positioning complementary products near each other to facilitate cross-selling. It also recommends placing impulse buy items near the checkout areas for those last-minute purchases that give the customer a surge of excitement and happiness.

Pairing these tactics with thoughtful cart and basket placement helps multiply their effect, another reason why these tools can be an integral part of your 2026 plan.

Good L Is Here to Help Make 2026 a Great Year in Retail

At Good L, we manufacture American-made shopping baskets and carts to the highest standards of durability and performance. Our products are engineered to withstand heavy daily use, support efficient shopping experiences, and contribute to desirable store flow, all of which are essential for retailers looking to make the most of 2026.

From smooth, sturdy carts to ergonomically designed baskets made from sustainable materials, every product manufactured by Good L is designed to help you execute your 2026 strategy. And, when you partner with us, you’re supporting American-made products that help bolster the American economy.

Is it time to fortify your 2026 retail strategy with new shopping carts and baskets? Get in touch with Good L Corp for a free quote on handheld baskets and our premium shopping carts, and let’s start the coming year strong!