‘You have no shame.’ Coles defends controversial $15 paper bag amid backlash

We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


compressed-bags.jpeg
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


compressed-bagz.jpeg
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
 
Sponsored
We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


View attachment 25967
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


View attachment 25968
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
Profiteering in the name of saving environment. Even in US brown bags are FREE.
 
We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


View attachment 25967
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


View attachment 25968
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
 
Instead of just showing concern about the environment, Coles has used this as an opportunity to make more money out of customers. Their supposedly reusable bag, for which they have the cheek to charge us 25 cents, should be called the tearable bag, as mine always arrive with at least one, if not all, torn. And now they're selling 'reusable' bags for $15....disgraceful. Shame on you Coles!
 
We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


View attachment 25967
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


View attachment 25968
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
I've never heard of a paper bag that you can wash 🤔 but I will research before considering buying.
 
We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


View attachment 25967
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


View attachment 25968
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
NO WAY!!
 
We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


View attachment 25967
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


View attachment 25968
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
Ridiculous price for a bag of any sort especially as this one is made of paper. It would be cheaper to buy a cheap nylon shower curtain & make your own bags.
 
At a time when most people are worrying about how to keep putting food on the table, Coles come up with a $15 shopping bag????
Wonder what bright spark came up with that idea, probably one of their bigwigs on their multi million dollar salaries.
The term "Tone Deaf" comes to mind as well as "Failure to read the room" While we mostly care about the environment and do what we can who the hell is happy about a $15.00 price tag for a paper shopping bag, no matter how sustainable the material it is made from.
 
We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


View attachment 25967
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


View attachment 25968
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
What is the whinge about? If a customer does not want to pay the prescribed price for the product, it is not a mandatory purchase. As the retailer points out, there are many preferable alternatives for any whingeing customer.
 
Of course there is no way tht I would pay $15 for a paper bag, washable or not. I wouldn't pay 50 cents or even 20 cents either.
Growing up in Europe back in the 1950s, my mother always had an assortment of shopping nets in her handbag when she went shopping (on foot) as not having your own bags meant you had to pay for a paper
bag.
1690425360823.png

Shopping nets are not difficult to make and can be crocheted or netted.

Alternatively, denim jeans are perfect for recycling into shopping bags:
1690425659474.png

Also, Spotlight has containers of fabric remnants that can be used to make simple bags - I find curtain fabrics to be perfect for this.

The benefit of making your own bags is that they are all washable and can last for years.
 
I have had super cheap shopping bags for years (before the enviro trend).
They are durable, as big as I want, roll up to fit in my handbag, totally sustainable, pretty to look at and have lasted me for years.
I do not sew, but have someone in my life who does. My sis made me some cotton totes many years ago and I have used them to the maximum with no drama.
I believe the fabric was an off cut and I paid something like $2 for enough to make 4 shopping bags.
I agree with MHM. Don't buy the shop supplied product. It is a back door way of making more profit.
If I didn't have someone to sew for me, I'm pretty sure I would have picked some decent stuff online.
There are always alternatives. All we need to do is have a look for them.
 
We can all agree that living costs continue to rise in ways we wouldn't necessarily anticipate.

In another twist in the ongoing saga of life’s little frustrations, a Coles supermarket shopper voiced his outrage over a checkout change: a whopping $15 for a reusable paper bag!



We encounter unexpected expenses occasionally, but forking out 15 big ones just for a paper bag is quite a surprise!


View attachment 25967
Reusable bags have gained popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags, helping to reduce plastic waste and its detrimental environmental impact. Source: Twitter



According to 7NEWS.com.au, the shopper shared his disbelief on social media after discovering the price of these 'washable' paper bags.

'Fifteen dollars for a paper bag??? That's a hard no from me,' he wrote.

Another post from him followed: 'You have no shame.'



Now this may seem a bit much—and the shopper isn’t the only one who thinks so, as the revelation sparked a flurry of backlash from other customers.

However, Coles had a different take.

They defended their decision and stood by the price tag claiming these bags had a 'longer lifespan' and wider capacity, being able to hold up to 20kg.

'Our washable paper bag, made from FSC-certified paper, has recently launched in-store as another option for customers to use when shopping,' a spokesperson said.

Now, if you're wondering what FSC-certified paper is, it's paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council, which promotes responsible management of the world's forests.



This certification ensures the paper produced is from a sustainable source, adding an eco-friendly angle to this washable bag.

'The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable.'

According to the supermarket giant, these new bags, which they claim have a leather-like quality, appear to be quite sturdy.

It is machine washable, and it competes with soft plastics when it comes to longevity.

'We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for just 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chilled bags which are $2.50 each,' the spokesperson added, attempting to quell some of the uproar.



It's quite the change from the simple brown paper bags of yesteryear, isn't it?

There was a time when no one could have imagined paying for a shopping bag, let alone a $15 one!

This introduction of the hefty $15 paper bag followed Coles' recent decision to stop selling their 15c reusable plastic bags in all stores by the end of June.

In their place, customers have been offered reusable paper bags for just 25c, along with a range of totes, providing a wider array of options.



However, this approach gained discontentment from shoppers. You can read more about it here.


View attachment 25968
Coles’ reusable paper bags are fragile and prone to tearing. Source: Facebook



'This [July], we phased out all soft plastic shopping bags in-store and online, which will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in one year. This is part of our commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic,' the spokesperson shared.

Key Takeaways

  • Coles has defended its decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15 amidst customer backlash.
  • The customer voiced his discontent over the price on social media, calling out the supermarket for 'having no shame'.
  • The supermarket stands by its decision, stating that the bag’s price is due to its machine-washable capacities, durability and ability to carry up to 20kgs.
  • Coles has also phased out all soft plastic shopping bags and continues to offer recycled paper bags for 25 cents and a range of reusable tote bags.

Change can be tough, especially when coupled with a jump in price for what used to be a free giveaway item at the end of a grocery trip.

However, it also underscores the larger environmental discourse about reducing reliance on single-use plastic items.



No matter what side of the fence you’re on for this story, let this be a reminder to keep a stash of bags in the boot of the car or near the front door, ready for your next supermarket trip.

Remember, it's not just about caring for the environment; it's also about smart shopping.

Members, what do you think about Coles' decision to sell a reusable paper bag for $15? Does the price seem justified to you?
Ridiculous waste of money. They will stop making those cheap paper bags soon.
 

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