Is $15 too steep for a reusable bag? Coles shoppers have their say
- Replies 44
What seems like a routine shopping experience can sometimes take an unexpected turn at the checkout.
One item in particular has caused quite a stir among shoppers, with many questioning its value and the decision behind its price tag.
As the debate heats up, it’s clear that this product is leaving customers divided.
If you've been shopping lately, you’ve likely noticed the growing trend of reusable bags. It’s become second nature to bring your own, but for those who, like me, forget it nearly every time, grabbing a new one usually costs no more than a couple of bucks.
That is, unless you're shopping at Coles.
Last year, Coles made headlines when it announced it would phase out its 15c reusable soft plastic bags in favour of other options, including the classic paper bags. However, the real shock came with the introduction of a new "washable" paper bag, priced at a hefty $15.
While many shoppers expressed outrage at the price tag, Coles stood by their decision.
A spokesperson explained in July 2023 that the washable paper bag offered far more value than its cheaper counterparts. According to them, it boasted a significantly longer lifespan and the ability to hold up to 20kgs of groceries.
‘The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable,’ the spokesperson said.
‘We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chiller bags which are $2.50 each. The leather-like washable paper bag also has a longer life span compared to soft plastic and paper bags and can carry up to 20kgs.’
Despite Coles’ defence, the bag continued to receive mixed reactions, with one shopper taking to social media to voice their disbelief.
‘Who’s buying these? They’re taking the piss aren’t they?’ the Reddit user questioned.
Other commenters also expressed their surprise, taking to Coles' website to confirm the price.
‘Thought it couldn't be true. Ummm...interesting,’ one shopper replied.
‘Has to be a mistake aren't the burlap bags like $1.50?’ asked another.
While some were baffled by the price, others shared stories of accidentally purchasing the pricey bag.
‘I bought one thinking it was $3 and when they said $15 I must have pulled a face and she went “do you want me to put that back” with a snarky, judgemental face - so I doubled down and said ‘no of course not’ and cursed the cow all the way home, $15 cheaper,’ one shopper confessed.
‘It’s the official “storing Christmas gifts” vessel now,’ someone added.
‘I grabbed one without realising and a worker came up and warned me that I’d picked up a $15 paper bag and was I sure I wanted it (I didn’t),’ another user chimed in.
Yet, there were still a few who defended the bag's quality.
‘Tbh they are pretty decent, can fit a f*ck load in them and they have a shoulder strap. Had one for a year now and it’s still going strong,’ one user said.
‘I was worried I'd be the only one putting my hand up to confess my sins. I agree, it's nice and roomy and the strap is fantastic. Mine is going strong after a year as well,’ another person admitted.
Regardless of the opinions, Coles’ $15 bag has certainly stirred up debate, leaving shoppers questioning if the price is worth the convenience and durability.
In a previous story, we discussed how savvy shoppers are turning to budget-friendly finds that deliver both style and function. Kmart's $15 mini bag has shoppers buzzing, with many comparing it to the iconic $20,000 Hermes Kelly. Read the full article here.
With so much debate over the value of this $15 bag, it begs the question: are you willing to pay more for durability, or does the price tag just seem too high? We'd love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below.
One item in particular has caused quite a stir among shoppers, with many questioning its value and the decision behind its price tag.
As the debate heats up, it’s clear that this product is leaving customers divided.
If you've been shopping lately, you’ve likely noticed the growing trend of reusable bags. It’s become second nature to bring your own, but for those who, like me, forget it nearly every time, grabbing a new one usually costs no more than a couple of bucks.
That is, unless you're shopping at Coles.
Last year, Coles made headlines when it announced it would phase out its 15c reusable soft plastic bags in favour of other options, including the classic paper bags. However, the real shock came with the introduction of a new "washable" paper bag, priced at a hefty $15.
While many shoppers expressed outrage at the price tag, Coles stood by their decision.
A spokesperson explained in July 2023 that the washable paper bag offered far more value than its cheaper counterparts. According to them, it boasted a significantly longer lifespan and the ability to hold up to 20kgs of groceries.
‘The $15 price is based on a number of factors, including the materials used and its ability to be machine washable,’ the spokesperson said.
‘We also continue to offer our customers 100 per cent recycled paper bags for 25 cents, a range of reusable tote bags that retail from $1, and chiller bags which are $2.50 each. The leather-like washable paper bag also has a longer life span compared to soft plastic and paper bags and can carry up to 20kgs.’
Despite Coles’ defence, the bag continued to receive mixed reactions, with one shopper taking to social media to voice their disbelief.
‘Who’s buying these? They’re taking the piss aren’t they?’ the Reddit user questioned.
Other commenters also expressed their surprise, taking to Coles' website to confirm the price.
‘Thought it couldn't be true. Ummm...interesting,’ one shopper replied.
‘Has to be a mistake aren't the burlap bags like $1.50?’ asked another.
While some were baffled by the price, others shared stories of accidentally purchasing the pricey bag.
‘I bought one thinking it was $3 and when they said $15 I must have pulled a face and she went “do you want me to put that back” with a snarky, judgemental face - so I doubled down and said ‘no of course not’ and cursed the cow all the way home, $15 cheaper,’ one shopper confessed.
‘It’s the official “storing Christmas gifts” vessel now,’ someone added.
‘I grabbed one without realising and a worker came up and warned me that I’d picked up a $15 paper bag and was I sure I wanted it (I didn’t),’ another user chimed in.
Yet, there were still a few who defended the bag's quality.
‘Tbh they are pretty decent, can fit a f*ck load in them and they have a shoulder strap. Had one for a year now and it’s still going strong,’ one user said.
‘I was worried I'd be the only one putting my hand up to confess my sins. I agree, it's nice and roomy and the strap is fantastic. Mine is going strong after a year as well,’ another person admitted.
Regardless of the opinions, Coles’ $15 bag has certainly stirred up debate, leaving shoppers questioning if the price is worth the convenience and durability.
In a previous story, we discussed how savvy shoppers are turning to budget-friendly finds that deliver both style and function. Kmart's $15 mini bag has shoppers buzzing, with many comparing it to the iconic $20,000 Hermes Kelly. Read the full article here.
With so much debate over the value of this $15 bag, it begs the question: are you willing to pay more for durability, or does the price tag just seem too high? We'd love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below.
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