Woolworths Retires Controversial Single-Handle Shopping Baskets
Woolworths has taken the decision to remove its single-handle shopping baskets from stores following a wave of negative customer feedback. The move comes as the supermarket chain introduces a new two-handle design aimed at improving customer experience.
The single-handle baskets were first rolled out in 2025 and were available alongside the original, smaller two-handle versions. However, they quickly became a point of contention among shoppers. Customers took to online platforms to express their dissatisfaction, with many highlighting the discomfort and inconvenience of using the single-handle design.
Customer Reactions to the Single-Handle Baskets
Shoppers shared their frustrations about the single-handle baskets, pointing out several issues. One customer said, “They strain my shoulders and aren’t great for walking balanced.” Another added, “Hate hate hate the big one-handle ones. Too awkward and I keep hitting myself in the hip.”
Others noted that the single-handle design lacked support. “One handle, you get no support,” one person said. Another mentioned, “If you have something heavy like a jar of pasta sauce, it’s just rolling around while I fight with the one handle.”
Mixed Reactions to the New Two-Handle Baskets
While the new two-handle baskets have been introduced as an alternative, customer opinions are divided. Some shoppers prefer the older two-handle design over the newer, larger version. One customer said, “I like the two-handle ones, but the smaller ones, not the bulky ones.”
Another shopper commented, “I go for the older two-handle basket. Easier for my hands with arthritis.” Others expressed their preference for the two-handle design, stating, “Two handles for me! The ones with one handle are really lopsided!”
However, some customers still find the two-handle design inconvenient. “One [handle]. I don’t know why loads of them have two. One will suffice and two is just annoying on the arm,” one person said.
On the other hand, others appreciate the stability offered by the two-handle baskets. “I always go in for one thing but come out with 20 items, so the two handles feel better on my arm, more secure, and holds the 3L milks on my arm. It’s better for balancing,” another customer noted.
Improvements and Sustainability
A Woolworths spokesperson shared the company’s perspective on the changes, stating, “We are constantly looking at ways to provide a better experience in-store for our customers. In response to customer feedback, we are currently rolling out a new shopping basket with an enhanced ergonomic, twin handle design.”
The new baskets have been designed with customer comfort and sustainability in mind. Each basket is made from recycled materials, including at least 18 milk bottles. Woolworths expects these new baskets to be available in all stores by September.
Availability and Future Plans
It remains unclear whether the new two-handle baskets are completely replacing the original two-handle design. One shopper told nine.com.au, “It was the only one at my Woolies in the pile I could see.”
Meanwhile, Coles has also introduced a single-handle shopping basket, with mixed responses from customers. Nine.com.au has contacted the supermarket for comment regarding the future of the basket design.
