Located in front of Playmaker looms an iconic local landmark known simply as “Shopping Cart Lady.” Beloved by the community, she has been a guardian of Grand River Avenue since her installation in 1958. After 67 years of service, it’s time for her to rest and rejuvenate. Starting mid-October, Shopping Cart Lady will be temporarily removed for a 6-8 week refurbishment project, giving her the refresh she deserves to come back brighter than before. “She’s gone for a run, but she’ll be back better than ever,” assures Lindsey Mulder, a member of the Playmakers ownership team. “Restoring the Shopping Cart Lady is our way of keeping her spirit alive - honoring tradition and adding new energy to a landmark that’s always cheered us on.” Shopping Cart Lady was a product of Schmidt's Food Market for over two decades until its doors closed in the 1980s. Vlahakis Companies then purchased the property and became the official caretaker of Shopping Cart Lady. She has continued to stand guard since Playmakers moved into the building in 2002. Additional current tenants include Peak Performance Physical Therapy and Lotte Market. The structure’s neon tubes and transformers produce the lovable green glow and the illusion of the Shopping Cart Lady walking while her cart’s wheels turn. After a fire in 2015 caused a short in the transformers, Shopping Cart Lady was relit and mostly restored in 2021. Now, in 2025, Shopping Cart Lady is scheduled for a more intensive round of TLC. The project will conclude with an evening “Fun Run Under the Lights” where the refurbished Shopping Cart Lady will be re-lit in front of the community. Witness Shopping Cart Lady shine brighter than ever in an evening featuring music, food trucks, shirts, and plenty of glow! Playmakers, in partnership with Meridian Corridor Improvement Authority, will oversee the restoration project. Follow playmakersfit on Instagram for updates on the Shopping Cart Lady’s whereabouts. Missing her presence already? Shop at Playmakers for a commemorative Shopping Cart Lady t-shirt to rep her in style!