A perplexed reader named Mairead contacted us, curious to uncover when retailers began the widespread practice of levying a charge on customers for the use of paper bags. In recounting her experience, she mentions going to a national bookshop where she was asked to pay a 10 cent charge for a paper bag. She has also pointed out that certain stores are imposing paper bag charges of up to 60 cents. She voices her discontent at being prompted to pay an extra sum for something as basic as a bag when she buys a variety of smaller merchandise, particularly when she shops impulsively. According to her, it’s rather disconcerting to have to pay extra to take purchased items out of the shop.
She’s not the only one displeased by this. This seemingly absurd practice has unfortunately become increasingly prevalent recently, despite the standardisation of charging for different kinds of bags over the past two decades.
In 2002, the authorities implemented a tax on plastic bags which stands at 22 cents today. Initially, there were some resistances but Irish consumers quickly adapted, notably due to the significant decline in discarded plastic bags polluting our spaces after the tax was imposed. Before the tax, plastic bags constituted around five per cent of all litter in Ireland, but now it’s less than 0.3 per cent. This environmentally-friendly tax, which was revenue-neutral and re-purposed for environmental initiatives, made a substantial difference.
However, lately, things have taken a regrettable turn. Supermarkets have largely stopped selling those single-use plastic bags, now charging over 70 cents for heavier plastic bags. Bags that are worth over 70 cents are exempted from tax, which means stores can profit from every bag they sell. In an even more regressive move, a number of retailers have begun to charge for paper bags, claiming it to be a sustainable step.
The opinion of Pricewatch is that the charges for paper bags are nothing short of a con. Zara led the retail caravan back in the summer of 2022, deciding to levy a 15p fee on their paper bags. Despite a smattering of backlash, the impact was negligible and hence, other significant retail chains quickly adopted the trend. It was only a matter of time before the floodgates opened and retailers, both within the apparel industry and beyond, began demanding their piece of the paper-bag cash pie.
Precisely one year ago, Marks & Spencer abolished its reusable plastic bags and rolled out a supposedly improved version of paper bags. Eason’s, a book retailer, also charges its customers for paper bags, as does Claire’s, the accessory shop. Almost unanimously, the retailers argue that their new policy emanates from an eco-friendly motive. However, this rationale doesn’t sit well with us.
Purchasing apparel, books, or accessories isn’t akin to grocery shopping – these items are commonly bought on a whim and shoppers may not always have an extra bag with them. Plus, who would willingly risk damaging a brand-new shirt, dress, or book by cramming it into a backpack, purse, or reusable shopping bag?
Absolutely not. As per Pricewatch’s perspective, the paper bag charge is merely a racket. Of course, your perspective might vary and if it does, we’re eager to understand your viewpoint.