Printed Carrier Bags in 2025
We're the experts when it comes to the printed carrier bag. With over 30 years of experience in the printed packaging industry, we've seen the industry evolve in response to changes in buying habits and legislation. From the anti-plastic movement, to the rise of plastic-free alternative carrier bags, and even the plastic carrier bag charge, we've watched as brands and consumers adapted to a changing landscape of bags.
Between 2023 and 2024, 340 million single-use plastic bags were used in the UK. In 2018 it was three times as many. As buying habits have changed, and legislation has forced people to adopt more reusable options, the number of carrier bags used has fallen sharply. However, the need for the carrier bag remains as strong as ever. As the goalposts have changed, ultimately the questions have changed... and critically, so have the answers. We're here to keep you up to date, so here's the most important questions (and answers) about printed carrier bags in 2025.
What are carrier bags?
Carrier bags are lightweight, simple & mass-produced bags. A carrier bag is commonly made from plastic, paper or fabric. They’re typically used to carry goods from shops, but are characterised by simply making it easier to carry multiple, or heavier items over a distance.
How do you dispose of carrier bags in the UK?
Plastic carrier bags can be recycled in designated plastic bag recycling bins, typically found at most major supermarkets. You should avoid disposing of plastic carrier bags at home, as they will go to landfill. Paper carrier bags can be recycled or even composted, as long as they’re made from 100% paper and aren’t too ink-heavy.
Why is it called a carrier bag?
Carrier bags are designed to carry multiple items from one place to another, so their name is directly related to their primary function of carrying.
How much is the carrier bag charge in the UK?
10p is the minimum charge of a single-use plastic bag in the UK since 2021. Only plastic bags are subject to this charge, so paper and fabric bags can be provided for free if a retailer wants to do so.
The Complete Guide to Printed Carrier Bags
Our brand new guide to printed carrier bags contains everything you'll ever need to know about branded bags. Covering all-things customisation, sustainability, marketing and more. We've even broken the guide down into each bag material to really drill down into the details. With our guide, you have everything you need to choose the perfect printed carrier bag.
See the full guideDo charity shops have to charge for carrier bags?
Yes. Charity shops are subject to the same regulations as all UK businesses; however, they are exempt from charging for non-plastic alternative carrier bags such as paper or fabric.
Why should carrier bags not just be thrown away?
Throwing away a carrier bag is environmentally damaging and wasteful. Most carrier bags are robust enough for multiple uses and can be recycled. Throwing a bag away means it will go to landfill and may take years to decompose.
How much is a carrier bag in Scotland?
10p is the minimum charge for a plastic carrier bag in Scotland. This is the same as the rest of the UK. Only plastic bags incur a charge, so paper and fabric bags do not need to be charged for by retailers.
Do supermarkets replace bags for life?
Yes, most supermarkets will replace bags for life if they are damaged or become unusable. A bag for life typically lasts a long time, and its name specifically refers not just to its longevity, but to the supermarket’s guarantee to replace it.
What should I do with old bags for life?
You should return old bags for life to the supermarket if they’re no longer usable, or to be recycled if you no longer need them. You should always reuse an old bag for life as long as it is still functional.
Are paper carrier bags more sustainable?
No. While paper carrier bags are recyclable and compostable, the wastage of water & energy in their production, as well as high timber requirements, make them inefficient and environmentally damaging. All carrier bag materials have their environmental flaws, but the most sustainable option is a plastic-free variant such as a potato starch carrier bag. Learn more about truly eco friendly carrier bags in our recent insight.
What age can you use a carrier bag?
There is no age restriction on carrier bag use. You should, however, always be careful when letting small children use a carrier bag, as they can be at risk of suffocation.
What size is a normal carrier bag?
A normal carrier bag size is around 38cm wide and 7.5cm tall, though this can vary between material options. Our full and comprehensive carrier bag size guide covers the most popular sizes for all carrier bag materials.
How do you wear a carrier bag?
Carrier bags aren’t typically worn but carried. Some options, such as fabric bags, come with long handles and can be worn on the shoulder. Most options would simply be carrier by hand with the handle provided.
Why do carrier bags have holes in them?
Small holes in the bottom of a bag allow air to escape from the bag, reducing any risks of suffocation and preventing the bags from splitting or holding air during storage.
Why do shops charge for carrier bags?
It’s the law in the UK for retailers to charge 10p for plastic carrier bags. Shops will commonly also charge for other bag options, typically to encourage customers to reuse bags and prevent single-use bag purchases.
What does using carrier bags mean?
Using carrier bags means actively carrying goods in the bag. This is an important definition for understanding the value provided by the function of a carrier bag and calculating its impact on the environment relative to its usefulness.
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