Coles raises shopping bag prices amid shopper backlash

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 07:32 · Archive

Australian supermarket Coles has increased paper bag prices from 5c to 30c and reusable bags from $4 to $4.20.

Coles has quietly increased the price of its shopping bags in a move that has drawn criticism from customers. Paper bags have risen from 5c to 30c per bag, while larger branded reusable bags have increased from $4 to $4.20. Online click and collect bag fees remain unchanged at $2 per order.

The retailer attributed the increases to higher material and transport costs. A Coles spokesperson said the company had 'worked to keep these increases as low as possible' and encouraged customers to bring their own reusable bags. The move comes after Coles Group recorded a $1.09 billion profit for the 2025-2026 financial year.

Shoppers have expressed frustration on social media, with one calling it 'an un-Australian act'. Others complained that paper bags deteriorate quickly, with one commenter noting handles rip when leaving stores. Competitors have taken a different approach: Woolworths and Aldi have kept paper bags priced at 25c since introducing them in 2020 and 2023 respectively.

How it is being reported

• Coles increases price of shopping bags in a frustrating move for shoppersA major Australian retailer has quietly increased its prices of an everyday item in a move that shoppers have dubbed as ‘un-Australian’.The West Australian · 14 Oct, 07:17
• Coles increases price of shopping bags in a frustrating move for shoppersA major Australian retailer has quietly increased its prices of an everyday item in a move that shoppers have dubbed as ‘un-Australian’.Perth Now · 14 Oct, 07:17

In this story: Coles · Woolworths · Aldi · Australia

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