Since it seems to be a wide-spread problem and it's not just me, contrary to opinions here, there is a very simple solution. Stores should schedule their sackers, stockers, etc. to assess the parking lots and retrieve carts more frequently. It is their lot and their carts. We hand over money in exchange for goods and services, and part of those services, is store and parking lot clean up, which isn't just trash pick up.
@donnatella:
Don't be selfish, rude and lazy. Just return the flippin cart. It's good exercise. 4951