Shopper calls out Coles for quality of new paper bags after mishap

In June, supermarket giant Coles removed single-use plastic shopping bags from their stores to reduce environmental waste, but one shopper's experience reveals the move may have brought some unexpected new issues.

The woman claimed that these bags, which cost 25 cents and are advertised to hold six kilograms, aren't up to the task.



In the footage, the customer's Coles bag, which is said to be made from 100% recycled paper, was shown torn and on the ground, with her grocery items, such as a soft drink and a bag of chips, scattered nearby.

She pointed out that the bag's handle ripped, even though she didn't have anywhere close to six kilos of groceries in it.

'It just snapped, clean snapped, right here,' she said.


Screenshot 2023-11-01 at 2.06.27 PM.png
Coles discontinued using soft-plastic shopping bags in-store and online at the end of June. Credit: TikTok/astralfroglet.



The woman also mentioned in the comments section of her video that she evenly distributed the items in the bags, but the paper bag still tore.

'Plenty of others have had the same problem. If the bags aren't fit for purpose or can't hold the 6kgs that they claim, they shouldn't be sold,' she argued.



Hundreds of fellow supermarket shoppers flooded the comments section of her post.

Some people questioned why Coles still sells these bags if they don't hold up. Others shared their own experiences with the bags tearing, even with relatively light loads.

For instance, one person mentioned that the bags ripped with just three 1.25-litre bottles of soft drinks. 'Ever since then, if I get them, I carry them like a baby,' the commenter added.

There was even a serious incident where a Coles bag broke, causing a senior to fall and break her arm. To make matters worse, when the situation was reported to the Coles manager, the response was unsympathetic.



While some shared their frustrations on social media, a few SDC members suggested carrying more durable reusable bags when shopping to avoid such issues.

Member @Elva shared, 'We keep a box and small trolley in the car boot. A few bags for small shops.'

'For years, we have been using ALDI trolley bags, set of 4. After emptying, they are always returned to the car. Have a fold-up light one hooked to my purse for when I wasn't going to buy anything,' member @Pat T added.

Member @Heths also shared their idea, 'I've got a few bags made out of lightweight material that can be folded and stored in my handbag so they are always there for shopping and easy to wash when required.'



Coles responded to customer concerns by defending the durability of its paper bags, which they claim can hold up to six kilograms of groceries.

A spokesperson stated that these bags have undergone rigorous independent testing, proving their ability to safely carry groceries, including chilled and frozen items. They can also be reused multiple times.

The supermarket chain also noted that this shift in packaging would eliminate 230 million plastic bags from circulation across the country within a year.

Matt Swindells, Coles Group Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, stated: 'The most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, we will continue to sell 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside, as well as other reusable options.'

Key Takeaways

  • A shopper criticised Coles for switching from plastic to paper bags, claiming her groceries were damaged when the bag broke.
  • The woman said that despite the new paper bags being allegedly designed to hold up to 6kg, the bottom of her bag fell out before reaching this weight.
  • The incident has sparked mixed responses from fellow Coles customers, with some criticising the quality of the bags and others suggesting using more durable recyclable bags.
  • Despite the criticism, Coles stands by its switch to paper bags, with a spokesperson stating they have undergone intensive testing and can safely hold up to 6kg and be reused multiple times.


Members, we'd like to hear your thoughts. Have you also encountered issues with Coles grocery paper bags? If so, please share any alternative bag options or solutions with us. Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below!
 
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In June, supermarket giant Coles removed single-use plastic shopping bags from their stores to reduce environmental waste, but one shopper's experience reveals the move may have brought some unexpected new issues.

The woman claimed that these bags, which cost 25 cents and are advertised to hold six kilograms, aren't up to the task.



In the footage, the customer's Coles bag, which is said to be made from 100% recycled paper, was shown torn and on the ground, with her grocery items, such as a soft drink and a bag of chips, scattered nearby.

She pointed out that the bag's handle ripped, even though she didn't have anywhere close to six kilos of groceries in it.

'It just snapped, clean snapped, right here,' she said.


View attachment 33612
Coles discontinued using soft-plastic shopping bags in-store and online at the end of June. Credit: TikTok/astralfroglet.



The woman also mentioned in the comments section of her video that she evenly distributed the items in the bags, but the paper bag still tore.

'Plenty of others have had the same problem. If the bags aren't fit for purpose or can't hold the 6kgs that they claim, they shouldn't be sold,' she argued.



Hundreds of fellow supermarket shoppers flooded the comments section of her post.

Some people questioned why Coles still sells these bags if they don't hold up. Others shared their own experiences with the bags tearing, even with relatively light loads.

For instance, one person mentioned that the bags ripped with just three 1.25-litre bottles of soft drinks. 'Ever since then, if I get them, I carry them like a baby,' the commenter added.

There was even a serious incident where a Coles bag broke, causing a senior to fall and break her arm. To make matters worse, when the situation was reported to the Coles manager, the response was unsympathetic.



While some shared their frustrations on social media, a few SDC members suggested carrying more durable reusable bags when shopping to avoid such issues.

Member @Elva shared, 'We keep a box and small trolley in the car boot. A few bags for small shops.'

'For years, we have been using ALDI trolley bags, set of 4. After emptying, they are always returned to the car. Have a fold-up light one hooked to my purse for when I wasn't going to buy anything,' member @Pat T added.

Member @Heths also shared their idea, 'I've got a few bags made out of lightweight material that can be folded and stored in my handbag so they are always there for shopping and easy to wash when required.'



Coles responded to customer concerns by defending the durability of its paper bags, which they claim can hold up to six kilograms of groceries.

A spokesperson stated that these bags have undergone rigorous independent testing, proving their ability to safely carry groceries, including chilled and frozen items. They can also be reused multiple times.

The supermarket chain also noted that this shift in packaging would eliminate 230 million plastic bags from circulation across the country within a year.

Matt Swindells, Coles Group Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, stated: 'The most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, we will continue to sell 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside, as well as other reusable options.'

Key Takeaways

  • A shopper criticised Coles for switching from plastic to paper bags, claiming her groceries were damaged when the bag broke.
  • The woman said that despite the new paper bags being allegedly designed to hold up to 6kg, the bottom of her bag fell out before reaching this weight.
  • The incident has sparked mixed responses from fellow Coles customers, with some criticising the quality of the bags and others suggesting using more durable recyclable bags.
  • Despite the criticism, Coles stands by its switch to paper bags, with a spokesperson stating they have undergone intensive testing and can safely hold up to 6kg and be reused multiple times.


Members, we'd like to hear your thoughts. Have you also encountered issues with Coles grocery paper bags? If so, please share any alternative bag options or solutions with us. Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below!
I remember when you didnt get charged for the bags you used to pack your groceries in, it was part of the service so Coles and Woolworths should not charge anything for the bags it is just another revenue making scheme and they say it is to help the environment. They make huge profits every year I wont buy any bags from either supermarket
 
We are still using the old plastic Woollies and Coles bags. Have certainly gotten a lot of use from them, and they're still going well unlike the paper ones the supermarkets are selling now.
 
In June, supermarket giant Coles removed single-use plastic shopping bags from their stores to reduce environmental waste, but one shopper's experience reveals the move may have brought some unexpected new issues.

The woman claimed that these bags, which cost 25 cents and are advertised to hold six kilograms, aren't up to the task.



In the footage, the customer's Coles bag, which is said to be made from 100% recycled paper, was shown torn and on the ground, with her grocery items, such as a soft drink and a bag of chips, scattered nearby.

She pointed out that the bag's handle ripped, even though she didn't have anywhere close to six kilos of groceries in it.

'It just snapped, clean snapped, right here,' she said.


View attachment 33612
Coles discontinued using soft-plastic shopping bags in-store and online at the end of June. Credit: TikTok/astralfroglet.



The woman also mentioned in the comments section of her video that she evenly distributed the items in the bags, but the paper bag still tore.

'Plenty of others have had the same problem. If the bags aren't fit for purpose or can't hold the 6kgs that they claim, they shouldn't be sold,' she argued.



Hundreds of fellow supermarket shoppers flooded the comments section of her post.

Some people questioned why Coles still sells these bags if they don't hold up. Others shared their own experiences with the bags tearing, even with relatively light loads.

For instance, one person mentioned that the bags ripped with just three 1.25-litre bottles of soft drinks. 'Ever since then, if I get them, I carry them like a baby,' the commenter added.

There was even a serious incident where a Coles bag broke, causing a senior to fall and break her arm. To make matters worse, when the situation was reported to the Coles manager, the response was unsympathetic.



While some shared their frustrations on social media, a few SDC members suggested carrying more durable reusable bags when shopping to avoid such issues.

Member @Elva shared, 'We keep a box and small trolley in the car boot. A few bags for small shops.'

'For years, we have been using ALDI trolley bags, set of 4. After emptying, they are always returned to the car. Have a fold-up light one hooked to my purse for when I wasn't going to buy anything,' member @Pat T added.

Member @Heths also shared their idea, 'I've got a few bags made out of lightweight material that can be folded and stored in my handbag so they are always there for shopping and easy to wash when required.'



Coles responded to customer concerns by defending the durability of its paper bags, which they claim can hold up to six kilograms of groceries.

A spokesperson stated that these bags have undergone rigorous independent testing, proving their ability to safely carry groceries, including chilled and frozen items. They can also be reused multiple times.

The supermarket chain also noted that this shift in packaging would eliminate 230 million plastic bags from circulation across the country within a year.

Matt Swindells, Coles Group Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, stated: 'The most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, we will continue to sell 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside, as well as other reusable options.'

Key Takeaways

  • A shopper criticised Coles for switching from plastic to paper bags, claiming her groceries were damaged when the bag broke.
  • The woman said that despite the new paper bags being allegedly designed to hold up to 6kg, the bottom of her bag fell out before reaching this weight.
  • The incident has sparked mixed responses from fellow Coles customers, with some criticising the quality of the bags and others suggesting using more durable recyclable bags.
  • Despite the criticism, Coles stands by its switch to paper bags, with a spokesperson stating they have undergone intensive testing and can safely hold up to 6kg and be reused multiple times.


Members, we'd like to hear your thoughts. Have you also encountered issues with Coles grocery paper bags? If so, please share any alternative bag options or solutions with us. Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below!
 
We are still using the old plastic Woollies and Coles bags. Have certainly gotten a lot of use from them, and they're still going well unlike the paper ones the supermarkets are selling now.
The bags are not fit for purpose or maybe just for your bread and biscuits- certainly won't put bottles or cans in them
If Coles are receiving numerous complaints regarding there recycled paper bags that are designed to hold 6kg & customers are reporting that the bags are breaking with less than 6kg they should be looking at ways to make the situation right. It is my hope that Coles can find a way to be smart moving forward & not decide to act like some of the cruise lines that were treating paying customers so badly that they risked being put out of buisness. I found myself in a situation on more than one occasion with my online Coles order which I do weekly where, the poor delivery driver didn’t even have the chance to find out if the paper bags were sturdy because, Coles kept running out of bags on a regular basis & the delivery driver was having to turn up at my door with a weeks worth of groceries all loose and in turn handing them to me at the door one by one. Get your act together Coles! Without your customers there wouldn’t be a Coles!
 
If you are not happy with the paper bags, buy a couple of cloth ones that will lst forbyears
 
In June, supermarket giant Coles removed single-use plastic shopping bags from their stores to reduce environmental waste, but one shopper's experience reveals the move may have brought some unexpected new issues.

The woman claimed that these bags, which cost 25 cents and are advertised to hold six kilograms, aren't up to the task.



In the footage, the customer's Coles bag, which is said to be made from 100% recycled paper, was shown torn and on the ground, with her grocery items, such as a soft drink and a bag of chips, scattered nearby.

She pointed out that the bag's handle ripped, even though she didn't have anywhere close to six kilos of groceries in it.

'It just snapped, clean snapped, right here,' she said.


View attachment 33612
Coles discontinued using soft-plastic shopping bags in-store and online at the end of June. Credit: TikTok/astralfroglet.



The woman also mentioned in the comments section of her video that she evenly distributed the items in the bags, but the paper bag still tore.

'Plenty of others have had the same problem. If the bags aren't fit for purpose or can't hold the 6kgs that they claim, they shouldn't be sold,' she argued.



Hundreds of fellow supermarket shoppers flooded the comments section of her post.

Some people questioned why Coles still sells these bags if they don't hold up. Others shared their own experiences with the bags tearing, even with relatively light loads.

For instance, one person mentioned that the bags ripped with just three 1.25-litre bottles of soft drinks. 'Ever since then, if I get them, I carry them like a baby,' the commenter added.

There was even a serious incident where a Coles bag broke, causing a senior to fall and break her arm. To make matters worse, when the situation was reported to the Coles manager, the response was unsympathetic.



While some shared their frustrations on social media, a few SDC members suggested carrying more durable reusable bags when shopping to avoid such issues.

Member @Elva shared, 'We keep a box and small trolley in the car boot. A few bags for small shops.'

'For years, we have been using ALDI trolley bags, set of 4. After emptying, they are always returned to the car. Have a fold-up light one hooked to my purse for when I wasn't going to buy anything,' member @Pat T added.

Member @Heths also shared their idea, 'I've got a few bags made out of lightweight material that can be folded and stored in my handbag so they are always there for shopping and easy to wash when required.'



Coles responded to customer concerns by defending the durability of its paper bags, which they claim can hold up to six kilograms of groceries.

A spokesperson stated that these bags have undergone rigorous independent testing, proving their ability to safely carry groceries, including chilled and frozen items. They can also be reused multiple times.

The supermarket chain also noted that this shift in packaging would eliminate 230 million plastic bags from circulation across the country within a year.

Matt Swindells, Coles Group Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, stated: 'The most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, we will continue to sell 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside, as well as other reusable options.'

Key Takeaways

  • A shopper criticised Coles for switching from plastic to paper bags, claiming her groceries were damaged when the bag broke.
  • The woman said that despite the new paper bags being allegedly designed to hold up to 6kg, the bottom of her bag fell out before reaching this weight.
  • The incident has sparked mixed responses from fellow Coles customers, with some criticising the quality of the bags and others suggesting using more durable recyclable bags.
  • Despite the criticism, Coles stands by its switch to paper bags, with a spokesperson stating they have undergone intensive testing and can safely hold up to 6kg and be reused multiple times.


Members, we'd like to hear your thoughts. Have you also encountered issues with Coles grocery paper bags? If so, please share any alternative bag options or solutions with us. Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below!
coles and woolies will never get rid of these bags (they are one of their best PRODUCTS)and save them millions ea year.i shop at Aldi now with one of Coles bags and I have been pleasantly surprised at just how much I save ($25-30each week) especially on their meat ,I haven't been even inside a Coles or woolies for 6 weeks, the only item I get from Coles is Ant rid I cant find it anywhere else, still I don't need a bag for that
 
Got about 100 Woolworths paper bags at home if anyone wants them. Used only once via Woolworths home delivery and in excellent condition with handles still firmly attached, neatly folded and ready to give away to a good home free of charge.....please. 😂😉🛍
 
In June, supermarket giant Coles removed single-use plastic shopping bags from their stores to reduce environmental waste, but one shopper's experience reveals the move may have brought some unexpected new issues.

The woman claimed that these bags, which cost 25 cents and are advertised to hold six kilograms, aren't up to the task.



In the footage, the customer's Coles bag, which is said to be made from 100% recycled paper, was shown torn and on the ground, with her grocery items, such as a soft drink and a bag of chips, scattered nearby.

She pointed out that the bag's handle ripped, even though she didn't have anywhere close to six kilos of groceries in it.

'It just snapped, clean snapped, right here,' she said.


View attachment 33612
Coles discontinued using soft-plastic shopping bags in-store and online at the end of June. Credit: TikTok/astralfroglet.



The woman also mentioned in the comments section of her video that she evenly distributed the items in the bags, but the paper bag still tore.

'Plenty of others have had the same problem. If the bags aren't fit for purpose or can't hold the 6kgs that they claim, they shouldn't be sold,' she argued.



Hundreds of fellow supermarket shoppers flooded the comments section of her post.

Some people questioned why Coles still sells these bags if they don't hold up. Others shared their own experiences with the bags tearing, even with relatively light loads.

For instance, one person mentioned that the bags ripped with just three 1.25-litre bottles of soft drinks. 'Ever since then, if I get them, I carry them like a baby,' the commenter added.

There was even a serious incident where a Coles bag broke, causing a senior to fall and break her arm. To make matters worse, when the situation was reported to the Coles manager, the response was unsympathetic.



While some shared their frustrations on social media, a few SDC members suggested carrying more durable reusable bags when shopping to avoid such issues.

Member @Elva shared, 'We keep a box and small trolley in the car boot. A few bags for small shops.'

'For years, we have been using ALDI trolley bags, set of 4. After emptying, they are always returned to the car. Have a fold-up light one hooked to my purse for when I wasn't going to buy anything,' member @Pat T added.

Member @Heths also shared their idea, 'I've got a few bags made out of lightweight material that can be folded and stored in my handbag so they are always there for shopping and easy to wash when required.'



Coles responded to customer concerns by defending the durability of its paper bags, which they claim can hold up to six kilograms of groceries.

A spokesperson stated that these bags have undergone rigorous independent testing, proving their ability to safely carry groceries, including chilled and frozen items. They can also be reused multiple times.

The supermarket chain also noted that this shift in packaging would eliminate 230 million plastic bags from circulation across the country within a year.

Matt Swindells, Coles Group Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, stated: 'The most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, we will continue to sell 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside, as well as other reusable options.'

Key Takeaways

  • A shopper criticised Coles for switching from plastic to paper bags, claiming her groceries were damaged when the bag broke.
  • The woman said that despite the new paper bags being allegedly designed to hold up to 6kg, the bottom of her bag fell out before reaching this weight.
  • The incident has sparked mixed responses from fellow Coles customers, with some criticising the quality of the bags and others suggesting using more durable recyclable bags.
  • Despite the criticism, Coles stands by its switch to paper bags, with a spokesperson stating they have undergone intensive testing and can safely hold up to 6kg and be reused multiple times.


Members, we'd like to hear your thoughts. Have you also encountered issues with Coles grocery paper bags? If so, please share any alternative bag options or solutions with us. Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below!
Personally I find these paper bags really durable. I had one carrying two three litre bottles of orange juice without any problems. I remember when we had paper bags without handles which we did cradle them like a baby. We all have to pull together to save our planet. Plastic bags were a curse.
 
so much easier to just bring your own bag.
Another issue at any of the supermarts I recently bought underwear and got home only to find that their anti-theft lock device was still attached. So much for self serve card only.
am guessing the security alarm sounded, but like most, people shrug their shoulders and keep walking.
 
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Reactions: DLHM and Littleboy8
Robert
I refuse to pay 25cents for a paper bag, that is not up to doing the job, years back we got paper bags for free at the supermarkets.
& tomatoes tasted like tomatoes and summers were just endless. Lots of things were 'free' in the old days, but most people didn't expect a bag to put 1 item in it so they didn't have to carry it. Oh, the irony.
 
  • Like
Reactions: DLHM and Littleboy8
In June, supermarket giant Coles removed single-use plastic shopping bags from their stores to reduce environmental waste, but one shopper's experience reveals the move may have brought some unexpected new issues.

The woman claimed that these bags, which cost 25 cents and are advertised to hold six kilograms, aren't up to the task.



In the footage, the customer's Coles bag, which is said to be made from 100% recycled paper, was shown torn and on the ground, with her grocery items, such as a soft drink and a bag of chips, scattered nearby.

She pointed out that the bag's handle ripped, even though she didn't have anywhere close to six kilos of groceries in it.

'It just snapped, clean snapped, right here,' she said.


View attachment 33612
Coles discontinued using soft-plastic shopping bags in-store and online at the end of June. Credit: TikTok/astralfroglet.



The woman also mentioned in the comments section of her video that she evenly distributed the items in the bags, but the paper bag still tore.

'Plenty of others have had the same problem. If the bags aren't fit for purpose or can't hold the 6kgs that they claim, they shouldn't be sold,' she argued.



Hundreds of fellow supermarket shoppers flooded the comments section of her post.

Some people questioned why Coles still sells these bags if they don't hold up. Others shared their own experiences with the bags tearing, even with relatively light loads.

For instance, one person mentioned that the bags ripped with just three 1.25-litre bottles of soft drinks. 'Ever since then, if I get them, I carry them like a baby,' the commenter added.

There was even a serious incident where a Coles bag broke, causing a senior to fall and break her arm. To make matters worse, when the situation was reported to the Coles manager, the response was unsympathetic.



While some shared their frustrations on social media, a few SDC members suggested carrying more durable reusable bags when shopping to avoid such issues.

Member @Elva shared, 'We keep a box and small trolley in the car boot. A few bags for small shops.'

'For years, we have been using ALDI trolley bags, set of 4. After emptying, they are always returned to the car. Have a fold-up light one hooked to my purse for when I wasn't going to buy anything,' member @Pat T added.

Member @Heths also shared their idea, 'I've got a few bags made out of lightweight material that can be folded and stored in my handbag so they are always there for shopping and easy to wash when required.'



Coles responded to customer concerns by defending the durability of its paper bags, which they claim can hold up to six kilograms of groceries.

A spokesperson stated that these bags have undergone rigorous independent testing, proving their ability to safely carry groceries, including chilled and frozen items. They can also be reused multiple times.

The supermarket chain also noted that this shift in packaging would eliminate 230 million plastic bags from circulation across the country within a year.

Matt Swindells, Coles Group Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer, stated: 'The most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, we will continue to sell 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside, as well as other reusable options.'

Key Takeaways

  • A shopper criticised Coles for switching from plastic to paper bags, claiming her groceries were damaged when the bag broke.
  • The woman said that despite the new paper bags being allegedly designed to hold up to 6kg, the bottom of her bag fell out before reaching this weight.
  • The incident has sparked mixed responses from fellow Coles customers, with some criticising the quality of the bags and others suggesting using more durable recyclable bags.
  • Despite the criticism, Coles stands by its switch to paper bags, with a spokesperson stating they have undergone intensive testing and can safely hold up to 6kg and be reused multiple times.


Members, we'd like to hear your thoughts. Have you also encountered issues with Coles grocery paper bags? If so, please share any alternative bag options or solutions with us. Feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments below!
They are not strong enough to hold milk also I get charged for 6 bags when I shop on line and I only ever use 2 so the price for me is 75c a bag which is not fair
 
They are not strong enough to hold milk also I get charged for 6 bags when I shop on line and I only ever use 2 so the price for me is 75c a bag which is not fair
Of course they are read my post above how much they put in mine. Also I get up to 8bags and pay for1 bag. Maybe they don’t like you.😹😹 are you a grizzle guts then.🤔
 
  • Haha
Reactions: Veggiepatch
Just ue cloth bags you can wash them, and they are strong, by using the paper bags, means cutting more trees down.
 

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