Asda is hoping to reassure shoppers that its trolleys are virus and bacteria-free with the introduction of a high-tech washing facility.
Launched in response to the coronavirus outbreak, the ‘trolley wash’ is now in place at Asda’s Morley store and works by coating trolleys in fine particles containing an anti-microbial solution. It is water-less, runs on electricity and uses an electrostatically charged mist to ensure that all touchpoints such as handles, rails and child seats are sterilised.
Developed by UK company The WasteCare Group, it is claimed that the form of decontamination eliminates 99.99% of all known bacteria, viruses and pollutants. A single tank of the anti-microbial solution can sanitise up to 20,000 trolleys, with the process taking a total of 10 to 15 seconds.
Graeme Wightman, Senior Manager of Store Services at Asda, said: “We know having a safe and hygienic environment to shop in is something on many customers’ minds right now. This trial uses new technology to ensure trolleys are thoroughly sanitised before use.
“As the first UK retailer to trial a permanent ‘trolley wash’ at Asda Morley, we continue to make shopping safely a priority for customers, building upon hygiene measures already introduced like the provision of hand sanitiser for customers in our stores.”
