In a twist that no one saw coming—except maybe your accountant—2024 has officially declared the shopping trolley as South Africa’s most expensive vehicle to operate. As inflation continues its unrelenting rise and prices skyrocket like a well-timed fireworks display, this humble grocery cart has outpaced luxury sports cars, private jets, and even Bitcoin in the race for the title of "Most Costly Transport."

With the cost of living going through the roof, South Africans have found themselves grappling with an unforeseen expense: their shopping trolleys. Once a symbol of mundane errands and weekly grocery hauls, these trolleys have transformed into high-maintenance, exorbitant vehicles requiring a small fortune to operate. Forget about fuel or maintenance; now you’re shelling out for inflation-adjusted shopping bags and premium, artisanal groceries just to keep your trolley running smoothly.

“It’s incredible,” says one baffled shopper, who recently discovered that her weekly grocery run now costs more than a high-end car lease. “I used to complain about the cost of petrol, but now my trolley’s operation costs have me re-evaluating my entire life.”

So, what makes the shopping trolley so outrageously expensive? For starters, inflation has driven the cost of basic groceries through the stratosphere, meaning every trip to the supermarket is like attending an exclusive event. The cost of fresh produce and staple items now rivals that of premium car parts, and the trolley’s "fuel"—your grocery budget—is perpetually on the rise.

“People used to think sports cars were a symbol of status,” says a local economist, “but that was before the shopping trolley made its debut as a luxury item. You haven’t truly lived until you’ve spent a month’s salary just to push a cart filled with avocados and organic quinoa.”

As shopping trolleys gain popularity as status symbols, a new trend is emerging: “Cart Culture.” From exclusive trolley clubs to luxury trolley valet services, the new elite are showing off their carts as if they were the latest high-performance sports car.

“Every weekend, I take my trolley to the farmers’ market,” says one proud owner, “where it’s polished to a shine and fitted with custom accessories. I even have a personal shopper to ensure I get the finest produce to complete my trolley’s look.”

The irony of the situation is not lost on anyone. With the economic downturn affecting almost every aspect of daily life, the shopping trolley has become a shining beacon of how far one can go to maintain a semblance of luxury. Financial advisors now recommend investing in trolley futures as a hedge against inflation, while social media influencers are cashing in on “Trolley Life” content.

In a final twist, the South African government has even started taxing shopping trolley use, calling it a “luxury vehicle surcharge.” As if the absurdity of paying more for a grocery cart than a sports car wasn’t enough, now your weekly shop is contributing to the national coffers.

As the cost of operating a shopping trolley continues to climb, South Africans are left pondering the ultimate question: Is it worth it? For now, the answer seems to be a resounding “yes,” as long as you’re willing to trade your bank account balance for the thrill of pushing around a cart that costs more than your last holiday.

So the next time you’re out shopping, remember that you’re not just pushing a trolley—you’re driving a symbol of 2024’s economic extravagance. And if you’re lucky, you might just be able to afford that premium grocery bag to go with it. Cheers to the high life, one cart push at a time!