Outrage ensues as Woolworths makes a shocking change to their bag policy

If you're a regular Woolworths shopper, you've probably noticed some big bag changes over the past few years.

First, single-use plastic bags were phased out as part of their sustainability efforts, and most recently, paper bags were introduced as a greener alternative for 25 cents.

Well, prepare for the latest switch-up—Woolies has shrunk those paper bags!


The change comes just six months after the 25c paper bags were introduced across all Woolworths stores in Australia. The decision to reduce the size of the bags has left many customers feeling short-changed, with some even labelling the move as a 'rip-off'.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the decision, stating, 'We have recently changed the height of our paper shopping bags in our stores to match the paper bags we use for online deliveries.’


Screenshot 2023-11-16 080934.png
Woolworths paper bags are now smaller. Credit: @bradenjonanderson/TikTok


They continued: ‘Many of our online orders are picked and packed in-store, so having one consistent size for all our paper bags helps simplify our processes. The new bags are now 3.5cm shorter, resulting in a slight reduction in the bag's overall volume.’

However, Woolworths assured customers that the bags have been tested and can ‘still carry the same weight of groceries.’


The change has not gone unnoticed by Woolworths shoppers, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction.

One customer shared a video comparing the new Woolworths bag to one purchased just a week ago, highlighting the noticeable difference in size.

‘Check out this bunch, hey? Don’t they know how to read the room?’ the customer stated. ‘We’ve got record profits, we’re talking about the cost of living going up, they’ve got industrial action going on.’

‘But they’re going to f****ng make the bags smaller,’ the customer expressed.

Some of the viewers commented on the video, affirming that they also noticed the change.

‘Experienced this today. Thought it seemed weird,’ one commented, while another wrote: ‘I still can’t believe we have to pay for recycled paper bags.’


‘That’s a slap in the face,’ another said while a different social media user pointed out, ‘And still charge the same.’

A different Woolies shopper shared their frustration on social media, asking: ‘Why are you ripping off customers?’



It is understood that Woolworths previously offered two distinct paper bag sizes: one for in-store purchases at checkout and another for online orders packed by staff or at Customer Fulfilment Centres.

Now, the in-store bag size has been standardised to match the dimensions of the bags used for online orders. This adjustment ensures that the bags for online orders, tailored to fit the delivery crates in-home delivery vans, are now uniformly used across both shopping platforms.

Key Takeaways
  • Woolworths supermarket has announced a major change to its paper shopping bags, reducing their size.
  • The change has sparked criticism from shoppers on social media, with some describing it as a 'rip-off'.
  • Woolworths defended the move, stating that the smaller bag size will simplify their processes, as the same bags are used for online deliveries and in-store purchases.
  • The bags for online orders were a specified size to fit inside the crates used for home delivery, this change brings the in-store bags in line with these.

What are your thoughts on the recent changes to Woolworths' bag policy, members? Have you noticed the difference in bag size? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
 
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Me too. I have fold up bags that I have with me wherever I go, plus extras in the car. I never buy bags and the checkout operators usually comment on how good my bags are. Mine are material and Ive had them for years. I just pop them in the washing machine and they are like new again
Yes I bought Macro hessian bags about 10 years ago when they first started talking about getting rid of plastic bags- they are always in the car and when I go into stores I take what I think I need with me. These bags can be washed if soiled and I will probably still use them for another 10 years
 
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Woolworths really seems to be leading the Race To The Bottom.
 
I have home delivery due to back situations but of course I have to put up with the situation of having paper bags Once they had grate to bench but Covid put an end to that
They could go back to that but I’m sure they like charging for bags now . Getting a smaller bag also matches all the smaller size products for the same price or higher. I’m sure the supermarkets are at the back of that too. Telling the supplier what to do or we wont sell your product
 
For what it's worth, I used to buy plain Kraft carry bags to use on my market stall. The last time I bought them the best price I could get was about 44cents each and that was in lots of 500 at a time. It is now 5 years since my last purchase. Allowing for inflation, supply and demand and other factors, I seriously doubt that the supermarket chains are making a fortune at 25c ea.
 
I normally shop online at coles but yesterday did an order from woolworths due to something I needed

When delivery arrived I noticed the bags were alot smaller than the coles bags. Yet they are the same price 🤔
The Woolies bags are also stronger I have found, so that is one good thing!
 
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As I keep saying buy canvas bags and you can use them over and over again I know some people are not able to get out and do their own shopping or some like the click and collect, surely someone can do the shopping for you and when you do the click and collect tell them you will pack it into bags yourself. Not only saving yourself some money but also save the environment win win.
You say "surely someone can do the shopping for you" ... no, for some of us that is simply not an option. We don't all have family or even family that live in the same state and can help out. Thank heavens for online deliveries as that is the only way some of us can get our basics.
 
If you're a regular Woolworths shopper, you've probably noticed some big bag changes over the past few years.

First, single-use plastic bags were phased out as part of their sustainability efforts, and most recently, paper bags were introduced as a greener alternative for 25 cents.

Well, prepare for the latest switch-up—Woolies has shrunk those paper bags!


The change comes just six months after the 25c paper bags were introduced across all Woolworths stores in Australia. The decision to reduce the size of the bags has left many customers feeling short-changed, with some even labelling the move as a 'rip-off'.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the decision, stating, 'We have recently changed the height of our paper shopping bags in our stores to match the paper bags we use for online deliveries.’


View attachment 34879
Woolworths paper bags are now smaller. Credit: @bradenjonanderson/TikTok


They continued: ‘Many of our online orders are picked and packed in-store, so having one consistent size for all our paper bags helps simplify our processes. The new bags are now 3.5cm shorter, resulting in a slight reduction in the bag's overall volume.’

However, Woolworths assured customers that the bags have been tested and can ‘still carry the same weight of groceries.’


The change has not gone unnoticed by Woolworths shoppers, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction.

One customer shared a video comparing the new Woolworths bag to one purchased just a week ago, highlighting the noticeable difference in size.

‘Check out this bunch, hey? Don’t they know how to read the room?’ the customer stated. ‘We’ve got record profits, we’re talking about the cost of living going up, they’ve got industrial action going on.’

‘But they’re going to f****ng make the bags smaller,’ the customer expressed.

Some of the viewers commented on the video, affirming that they also noticed the change.

‘Experienced this today. Thought it seemed weird,’ one commented, while another wrote: ‘I still can’t believe we have to pay for recycled paper bags.’


‘That’s a slap in the face,’ another said while a different social media user pointed out, ‘And still charge the same.’

A different Woolies shopper shared their frustration on social media, asking: ‘Why are you ripping off customers?’



It is understood that Woolworths previously offered two distinct paper bag sizes: one for in-store purchases at checkout and another for online orders packed by staff or at Customer Fulfilment Centres.

Now, the in-store bag size has been standardised to match the dimensions of the bags used for online orders. This adjustment ensures that the bags for online orders, tailored to fit the delivery crates in-home delivery vans, are now uniformly used across both shopping platforms.

Key Takeaways

  • Woolworths supermarket has announced a major change to its paper shopping bags, reducing their size.
  • The change has sparked criticism from shoppers on social media, with some describing it as a 'rip-off'.
  • Woolworths defended the move, stating that the smaller bag size will simplify their processes, as the same bags are used for online deliveries and in-store purchases.
  • The bags for online orders were a specified size to fit inside the crates used for home delivery, this change brings the in-store bags in line with these.

What are your thoughts on the recent changes to Woolworths' bag policy, members? Have you noticed the difference in bag size? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.

If the paper bags have to be the same size make the pick and pay bigger to match the 25C shoppers bag.
 
Anything that Coles and Woolies do don't surprises me anymore.
Profits first, Customers last. They'll do anything to maximise profits at the expense of customers..
 
I never use them. I have canvas bags I have had for years and I keep taking them. They take a long time to wear out. I also get given more bags at various events I attend. Reuse as much as you can
We have canvas bags with zip around top and insulation inside....great for cold goods. 🤔😉
 
Because they don't care in most cases surely people could find alternatives. I make my own and have done so for years they are fabric or I have made a bag with flyscreen fabric and another with a type of shadecloth.
they sound like the old string bags from back in the day.....🤔
 
I bought a pack of 5 polyester bags similar to shower certain material for $1 each and have used them twice a week at Aldi. They are starting to get a bit tatty but 15 years is not too bad? What is it with the latte set who use paper bags?
I bought some RSL legacy shopping bags about 4-5 Years ago , they appear to be made out of heavy material almost like canvas ,are a good size and can be thrown in the wash when they get a little soiled ,best purchase I have made although they were a little pricey, all for a good cause.
 
You say "surely someone can do the shopping for you" ... no, for some of us that is simply not an option. We don't all have family or even family that live in the same state and can help out. Thank heavens for online deliveries as that is the only way some of us can get our basics.
Agree Magpie , people don’t know other people’s circumstances I have been doing it since broken back operation
 
I don't see the problem, the home delivery bags are still the same size
If you're shopping in store, why keep paying over and over for paper bags, which are useless. Just buy a supply of reusable. They pay for themselves in no time.
Where's the problem?
I agree. I can keep 6 small folded nylon bags in a pocket in my handbag. Not heavy to carry, but robust enough for cans and bottles. Washable too. Cost roughly $2 each. 👍
 
Yes I bought Macro hessian bags about 10 years ago when they first started talking about getting rid of plastic bags- they are always in the car and when I go into stores I take what I think I need with me. These bags can be washed if soiled and I will probably still use them for another 10 years
Has everyone honestly got rid of all of their old plastic bags from Woolworths....what's wrong with using those, or wont Woolies handle them any more at checkouts ?
 
If you're a regular Woolworths shopper, you've probably noticed some big bag changes over the past few years.

First, single-use plastic bags were phased out as part of their sustainability efforts, and most recently, paper bags were introduced as a greener alternative for 25 cents.

Well, prepare for the latest switch-up—Woolies has shrunk those paper bags!


The change comes just six months after the 25c paper bags were introduced across all Woolworths stores in Australia. The decision to reduce the size of the bags has left many customers feeling short-changed, with some even labelling the move as a 'rip-off'.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the decision, stating, 'We have recently changed the height of our paper shopping bags in our stores to match the paper bags we use for online deliveries.’


View attachment 34879
Woolworths paper bags are now smaller. Credit: @bradenjonanderson/TikTok


They continued: ‘Many of our online orders are picked and packed in-store, so having one consistent size for all our paper bags helps simplify our processes. The new bags are now 3.5cm shorter, resulting in a slight reduction in the bag's overall volume.’

However, Woolworths assured customers that the bags have been tested and can ‘still carry the same weight of groceries.’


The change has not gone unnoticed by Woolworths shoppers, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction.

One customer shared a video comparing the new Woolworths bag to one purchased just a week ago, highlighting the noticeable difference in size.

‘Check out this bunch, hey? Don’t they know how to read the room?’ the customer stated. ‘We’ve got record profits, we’re talking about the cost of living going up, they’ve got industrial action going on.’

‘But they’re going to f****ng make the bags smaller,’ the customer expressed.

Some of the viewers commented on the video, affirming that they also noticed the change.

‘Experienced this today. Thought it seemed weird,’ one commented, while another wrote: ‘I still can’t believe we have to pay for recycled paper bags.’


‘That’s a slap in the face,’ another said while a different social media user pointed out, ‘And still charge the same.’

A different Woolies shopper shared their frustration on social media, asking: ‘Why are you ripping off customers?’



It is understood that Woolworths previously offered two distinct paper bag sizes: one for in-store purchases at checkout and another for online orders packed by staff or at Customer Fulfilment Centres.

Now, the in-store bag size has been standardised to match the dimensions of the bags used for online orders. This adjustment ensures that the bags for online orders, tailored to fit the delivery crates in-home delivery vans, are now uniformly used across both shopping platforms.

Key Takeaways

  • Woolworths supermarket has announced a major change to its paper shopping bags, reducing their size.
  • The change has sparked criticism from shoppers on social media, with some describing it as a 'rip-off'.
  • Woolworths defended the move, stating that the smaller bag size will simplify their processes, as the same bags are used for online deliveries and in-store purchases.
  • The bags for online orders were a specified size to fit inside the crates used for home delivery, this change brings the in-store bags in line with these.

What are your thoughts on the recent changes to Woolworths' bag policy, members? Have you noticed the difference in bag size? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.

Doesn't worry me - I DON'T USE THEM!!!! I got a total $H#T load of the 15c recyclable plastic Coles bags that i use over and over and over and over ,,,ditto ditto ditto ditto again FAR OUTLASTING those pathetic paper bags that rip, tear and spill their contents at the slightest puncture. And if the plastic does get a hole than a small bare minimum piece of sticky tape plugs the hole and keeps it going for longer.

PLUS the coles recyclable bags hold a LOT more than those PI$$Y paper bags ever could!!!
Then when the bag is completely stuffed i re-use it as packing fodder for excess items that need to be stored away!
 
I still use the green bag for good when it's damaged they replace for free
 
Don't care. I have been using my iwn bags for years.
Most of them are home made, natural fibre, washable, and, so far most have been with me for at least 15 years.
I don't buy the paper bags because they need trees to be cut down to make them.
 
If you're a regular Woolworths shopper, you've probably noticed some big bag changes over the past few years.

First, single-use plastic bags were phased out as part of their sustainability efforts, and most recently, paper bags were introduced as a greener alternative for 25 cents.

Well, prepare for the latest switch-up—Woolies has shrunk those paper bags!


The change comes just six months after the 25c paper bags were introduced across all Woolworths stores in Australia. The decision to reduce the size of the bags has left many customers feeling short-changed, with some even labelling the move as a 'rip-off'.

A Woolworths spokesperson explained the rationale behind the decision, stating, 'We have recently changed the height of our paper shopping bags in our stores to match the paper bags we use for online deliveries.’


View attachment 34879
Woolworths paper bags are now smaller. Credit: @bradenjonanderson/TikTok


They continued: ‘Many of our online orders are picked and packed in-store, so having one consistent size for all our paper bags helps simplify our processes. The new bags are now 3.5cm shorter, resulting in a slight reduction in the bag's overall volume.’

However, Woolworths assured customers that the bags have been tested and can ‘still carry the same weight of groceries.’


The change has not gone unnoticed by Woolworths shoppers, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their dissatisfaction.

One customer shared a video comparing the new Woolworths bag to one purchased just a week ago, highlighting the noticeable difference in size.

‘Check out this bunch, hey? Don’t they know how to read the room?’ the customer stated. ‘We’ve got record profits, we’re talking about the cost of living going up, they’ve got industrial action going on.’

‘But they’re going to f****ng make the bags smaller,’ the customer expressed.

Some of the viewers commented on the video, affirming that they also noticed the change.

‘Experienced this today. Thought it seemed weird,’ one commented, while another wrote: ‘I still can’t believe we have to pay for recycled paper bags.’


‘That’s a slap in the face,’ another said while a different social media user pointed out, ‘And still charge the same.’

A different Woolies shopper shared their frustration on social media, asking: ‘Why are you ripping off customers?’



It is understood that Woolworths previously offered two distinct paper bag sizes: one for in-store purchases at checkout and another for online orders packed by staff or at Customer Fulfilment Centres.

Now, the in-store bag size has been standardised to match the dimensions of the bags used for online orders. This adjustment ensures that the bags for online orders, tailored to fit the delivery crates in-home delivery vans, are now uniformly used across both shopping platforms.

Key Takeaways

  • Woolworths supermarket has announced a major change to its paper shopping bags, reducing their size.
  • The change has sparked criticism from shoppers on social media, with some describing it as a 'rip-off'.
  • Woolworths defended the move, stating that the smaller bag size will simplify their processes, as the same bags are used for online deliveries and in-store purchases.
  • The bags for online orders were a specified size to fit inside the crates used for home delivery, this change brings the in-store bags in line with these.

What are your thoughts on the recent changes to Woolworths' bag policy, members? Have you noticed the difference in bag size? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.

about time they made them both the same size - and people "Yes" recycled paper" should be free. But in saying that you must remember there is a cost involved in turning that recycled paper into paper again then remaking it into something, then printing on it. So, "YES" recycled bags should incur a cost to customers, just like all other recycled products on the market.
 
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