BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — New carts have been rolled out at Walmart locations across Missouri, Arkansas and other states with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity.
“Caroline’s Carts” are shopping carts specially designed with a large seat on the back to help caregivers of adults and children who have disabilities, limited mobility or injuries more easily make their way through the store.
“Helping our customers save money and live better is more than our mission – it’s our driving force,” Cedric Clark, executive vice president of store operations at Walmart, said in a news release.
The carts have a seat with a capacity to hold between 35 and 250 pounds. Each Walmart Supercenter is set to have two of these carts and Neighborhood Markets with one.
“Equipping our stores with Caroline’s Carts provides some relief to parents and caregivers who need this tool and know it’s available at their Walmart. Whether they’re caring for someone with a disability or a temporary injury, the carts support our customers when and how they need it every time they come through our doors.” Clark added.
The carts are part of Walmart’s continuing goal to create an inclusive shopping experience, the company said.
In 2023, Walmart brought back its sensory-friendly hours. From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily, stores attempted to provide a calmer environment by turning off the radio, setting TV monitors to a still screen, and dimming the lights where possible.
Sensory-friendly hours were originally meant to be in place during just the back-to-school season but returned year-round after positive response, Walmart said in the release.
In addition to Arkansas, the carts are also currently available in stores in Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas.
Walmart says it plans to have all stores with a Caroline’s Cart by early 2025 and 8,000 nationwide.
