The retailer introduced a reusable bag in 2003 and has since offered shoppers a number of alternatives, including cotton and RPET bags. “More recently we’ve trialled new alternatives, such as paper bags and cardboard boxes. But the reality is that for the time being, the plastic carrier bag remains the most economical bag option for customers – despite the growing options available," says Suzanne Ackerman-Berman, director of transformation: Pick n Pay.
“We believe our new R5 reusable bag could be a viable reusable bag option for many more customers, across all income groups,” she adds.
The grocery retailer has also started a trial with a reusable netted fruit and vegetable fresh produce bag (R7,50) in a further effort to discourage unnecessary plastic bag usage.
Launched in five stores across the Western Cape at the end of December, overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers will see the retailer expand the trial to include more stores across the region, Durban North Hypermarket and five stores in Namibia by mid-February.
Customers can now also bring their own transparent and sealable reusable bag in-store for loose selling produce.
