Some shoppers are taking more than their groceries home when they leave a Johnstown supermarket: they're taking the shopping carts as well.

Ever since the Ideal Market opened on Walnut Street 10 years ago, stolen shopping carts have been a problem. Management said they're not exaggerating when they say they've lost thousands over the years. They said they are constantly restocking the carts, which can get costly.

Workers have tried putting poles on the carts to prevent people from taking them out of the store, but people bend the poles to get them out. The store has hired a driver for home deliveries, but the driver also picks up any carts he may see around the city.

Once a month, the store replenishes the cart supply with used ones that cost around $25 to $45 each. Management said that money could be sued on other things like promotions or additional sales.

"If people would just take the time to bring (the cart) back. Leave it on our corner. At least don't destroy -- don't shove it down the alley or river wall. Just give us an opportunity to bring them back," said Gary May, manager.

May said stolen carts is not just a problem at his store, but for stores across the country in urban areas.

He asked people who see shopping carts around town to call the store at (814) 539-4680.