Supermarkets are likely to redefine the cost of plastic carrier bags, as two of the big five supermarkets, Tesco and Sainsbury’s, have increased the amount they charge from 30p to 40p in the past few days and weeks.
In 2015, Supermarkets were officially required by law to charge 5p for plastic carrier bags. This increased to 10p in 2021. Since then, many of the largest companies that provide plastic carrier bags have gone further to increase the amount they charge customers for purchasing these items, though they are not required to do so.
Many retailers already charge 40p for single-use bags, and Tesco & Sainsbury’s may simply argue they are following suit. In the UK, only budget supermarkets Aldi & Lidl out of the main 10 supermarket brands still charge 30p per plastic bag. The question is, will they be next? The answer, likely yes.
Why do we pay for plastic bags in the UK?
The introduction of the carrier bag charge was proposed as a deterrent and further increases in the price being charged by these retailers are being justified by this narrative. Defra has recently reported that plastic carrier bag sales have increased by 7% in the past year, something which retailers will be encouraged to tackle.
Decisions over how the revenue generated from the sale of these single-use bags is up to the retailers, though the UK government’s guidance does state that it expects retailers to give proceeds to good causes. Though retailers are asked to report on what they do with this money, many do not.
As mentioned, one of the retailers increasing the price of their plastic carrier bags to 40p is Sainsbury’s. Between 2022 and 2025, Sainsbury’s, among other retailers, did not report their donations as advised by the UK government. This does not mean that Sainsbury’s did not donate their earnings from single-use carrier bags to good causes, but is indicative that retailers are moving away from government guidance on plastic carrier bags, and implementing their own processes and procedures.
How to avoid paying 40p for a bag?
Some supermarkets such as Aldi & Lidl still charge 30p for a plastic bag. These retailers are famous for offering lower prices than their competitors, so it is conceivable that they may not opt to raise their carrier bag prices like Tesco and Sainsbury’s have in recent times.
The best way to avoid paying for single-use carrier bags is to bring your own bags from home. Reusing bags is not only good for the environment, preventing more plastic bag waste from going to landfill or needing to be recycled, but also it saves you money not needing to purchase bags each time you shop.
Many retailers have transitioned their plastic bags to ‘bags-for-life’, meaning they can be replaced if damaged, to justify the increases in price. These bags are commonly mostly or totally made from recycled plastic material, and come in the form of a flexiloop handle style plastic bag. Supermarkets will argue that purchases of these plastic bags should not constitute a single-use purchase, as their robustness and ability to be replaced means customers should reuse them.
Some retailers such as Co-op have transitioned to compostable bags and does not sell single-use plastic bags or bags for life. Though these bags do cost customers money, Co-op donates the proceeds to good causes.
Will other retailers follow Tesco & Sainsbury’s?
Retailers not already charging 40p for their carrier bags will likely follow suit. It’s common practice for businesses with the largest market share to make changes, and then for others to see that as the standard for the industry.
Ultimately, the 7% increase in the number of single-use bags sold between 2024 and 2025 is the first time we’ve seen an increase since the plastic bag charge was introduced in October 2015. Total sales of plastic carrier bags are still down by 80% compared with 2016 & 2017 when data was first recorded on plastic bag sales.
Should I charge more for my plastic bags as a retailer?
Ultimately, you’re required by law to charge at least 10p for plastic carrier bags, but the industry standard has for some time been much higher than this. With Tesco and Sainsbury’s now charging 40p per single-use bag, retailers may want to consider raising their prices to remain competitive and profitable.
You should always consider the costs of your carrier bag supplier, and the value you’re generating from your carrier bags. A branded plastic carrier bag can be a fantastic marketing tool, though you may want to consider providing a range of reusable options, such as fabric or luxury bags, which may be more impactful for your business. As the leading supplier of printed carrier bags, whether you’re looking to reevaluate your carrier bag range or are simply looking for advice, we can help. Call us on 01438873840 today.
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