Smart Shopping Cart Locks Combat Thefts Across Israeli Supermarket Chains

Osher Ad has been operating a system for over a year that prevents shopping carts from leaving a predefined perimeter around its branches. The technology is currently active in 13 stores, with boundaries established in coordination with local municipalities. Customers who park beyond the designated limit may find their carts locking mid-route.

The issue recently gained traction on social media following a TikTok video uploaded by an Osher Ad customer. In the video, she attempts to push a loaded shopping cart toward her vehicle, but the cart suddenly stops and cannot be moved further. According to reports, the incident apparently occurred at the Netanya branch after the customer parked outside the authorized cart zone.

The system operates via a component installed in the cart's wheel that communicates with infrastructure set up in the parking area. When a cart crosses the permitted boundary, the mechanism locks the wheel to halt further movement. Returning the cart to the designated area automatically releases the locking mechanism.

Driving this technology is the persistent phenomenon of cart theft and disappearance. Industry estimates indicate that retail chains lose thousands of carts annually, with each cart costing between 500 and 700 shekels. Beyond direct financial loss, retail chains also face potential municipal fines for carts abandoned outside their premises.

This technology is not exclusive to Osher Ad and is utilized by other supermarket chains in Israel. According to the company representing Gatekeeper in Israel, the system is installed in over 100 stores, including Shufersal, Yohananof, Machsanei HaShuk, and Hatzi Hinam.

Alongside the wheel-locking system, Osher Ad continues to use the traditional coin-lock mechanism requiring a 5-shekel coin to release a cart. Representatives note that additional technology is also available to detect attempts to remove unpaid merchandise from stores.