Tesco shoppers have expressed their discontent over a significant change introduced in stores. The supermarket giant is reportedly taking into account customer feedback following the response to the update. The alteration entails relocating the slot on trolley handles, used for scan and go shopping scanners, from the right to the left-hand side of the trolleys.
Consumers have voiced their concerns and requested for the space to be reverted to its original position, or alternatively for Tesco to offer a mix of trolleys to cater to both preferences. One individual mentioned, “Years of it being on the right and 90 per cent are right-handed and this change is just awfully impractical.” Another shopper expressed their frustration by stating, “It drives me nuts.” Furthermore, another customer added, “Appreciate the new trolleys, but why the F are the holders for the scanners on the wrong side?”
Left-handed shopper Jess Shaw shared her perspective with The Sun, saying, “I don’t know why they’ve put the scanners on the left of trolleys but it’s nice that something works well for us for a change — even if it was a mistake.” Prof Chris McManus, author of Right Hand, Left Hand, highlighted the historical bias towards right-handers in design but noted the recent success in making objects suitable for use by both left and right-handed individuals.
Approximately 10% of the global population is left-handed, with factors like genetics, development, and environment believed to influence handedness. Although studies suggest a genetic component to handedness, it does not follow a straightforward inheritance pattern. The dominance of right-handedness is attributed to the specialisation of the left hemisphere of the brain for language and fine motor skills. Historically, societies have favoured right-handedness, with tools, writing systems, and societal norms often catering to right-handed individuals.
In the past, there were instances where children were compelled to use their right hand for writing, even if they naturally favoured their left. Various environmental factors during fetal development, such as hormone exposure or prenatal positioning, may also play a role in determining hand dominance. Some evolutionary theories propose that right-handedness provided survival advantages due to the coordination of tool use or social collaboration.
The persistence of left-handedness could stem from its potential benefits in competitive scenarios, such as in certain sports where left-handed individuals may have an edge over opponents. The article delves into the complexities of handedness and the societal influences that have shaped attitudes towards left-handed individuals. Tesco was reached out to for comment on the matter, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between consumers and businesses regarding inclusivity and accessibility in everyday products and services.