One method of achieving a zero-cost purchase.

**Preventing "Zero-Yuan Purchases" in Overseas Supermarkets: The Rise of Automated Shopping Cart Locking Systems** In recent years, overseas supermarkets have increasingly faced the challenge of “zero-yuan purchases”—a phenomenon where individuals illegally take Shopping Carts without paying for their contents, often leading to significant financial losses and operational disruptions. In response, retailers have implemented innovative security measures, one of which is the automated locking system for shopping carts, now widely adopted across Europe and North America. This advanced system works by integrating sensors embedded in the store’s flooring with a complex mechanical mechanism within the shopping cart’s wheels. Each cart is equipped with over 100 intricate components, including micro-sensors, electromagnetic locks, and motion-detecting systems. As shoppers push their carts toward the exit, the floor-mounted sensors detect proximity to the store’s boundary—typically marked at the entrance or exit doorways. Once the cart crosses this invisible threshold, the wheels automatically lock, rendering the cart immobile. The design ensures that only authorized personnel can unlock the carts using a special key or electronic signal, typically through a centralized control panel located at the checkout area. This not only prevents theft but also deters shoplifting, as the cart cannot be removed from the premises without proper clearance. Additionally, many systems are integrated with digital tracking software, allowing stores to monitor cart usage patterns, identify high-risk areas, and optimize staff deployment. The implementation of such technology has proven effective in reducing incidents of zero-yuan purchases. According to a 2023 study conducted by the International Retail Security Association, supermarkets employing automated cart-locking systems reported a 78% decrease in cart-related theft within the first year of installation. Moreover, the system enhances customer safety by preventing carts from rolling away, especially on sloped surfaces or near entrances. Despite initial concerns about user inconvenience, most customers have adapted positively to the system. Clear signage and intuitive design ensure that shoppers understand the process, while staff members are trained to assist when needed. The technology also supports sustainability efforts, as it reduces the number of lost or abandoned carts found in public spaces. As retail environments continue to evolve, innovations like automated cart locking represent a crucial step toward securing operations while maintaining customer trust. By combining advanced engineering with smart infrastructure, overseas supermarkets are not only combating theft but also setting new standards for safety, efficiency, and responsible retail management.