Woolworths supermarkets and Big W stores will gradually phase out 15- and 45-cent reusable plastic shopping bags nationwide during the next year.
The retailers will stop selling them state-by-state starting at Woolworths supermarkets, Metros and online.
Natalie Davis, MD of Woolworths Supermarkets, said reusable plastic bags were introduced to help customers adjust to the removal of single-use plastic bags from stores.
“We’ve seen a huge shift in shopping habits since we stopped giving out single-use plastic bags, with eight out of 10 customers now bringing their own bags from home.
“Customers expect us to lead on sustainability, and this is one way we are growing greener by reducing plastic and ensuring the regular trip to your local Woolworths or Big W is having less impact on the environment,” she said.
Plastic bags for fruit and vegetables will still be available in the produce sections of Woolworths, although the supermarket is exploring more sustainable options to reduce their use.
Woolworths stores in Western Australia have already started phasing out plastic bags ahead of the state’s new local laws. South Australia and Northern Territory are expected to follow by September this year.
Big W will phase out its 15- and 45-cent reusable plastic bags by next year but will make other bag options available, such as printed totes and fabric bags.
