Overview

• Primark will begin charging 15p for its iconic brown paper bags at checkout on May 12, 2025, in an effort to reduce single-use waste.
• The bags, made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials, have long been offered for free but will now carry a fee to encourage reusable bag usage.
• Reusable shopping bags starting at 80p and canvas tote bags are available year-round in stores as alternatives for customers.
• The policy change has drawn mixed reactions online, including a viral TikTok video by Holly Louise, which has garnered over 1.2 million views.
• Primark describes the move as part of its broader commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing waste across its operations.