With a spotlight on environmental issues, it’s good to take a step back and look at what retailers have done to mitigate waste over the past few years. And, of course, how these efforts can be further perpetuated. Because, while there’s been progress, it simply isn’t enough.
A recent survey showed that in 2024, UK households threw away 1.7 billion units of plastic packaging a week – making it more per person than any other country in the word (bar the United States). This figure is in keeping with the first count performed in 2022 meaning that, despite the drive, not much progress has been made.
Eighty-three percent of this waste comes from the food and drinks arena. In response, Greenpeace are calling for a legally binding target to reduce plastic production by 75% before 2040.
The good news is that there’s been a 98% decrease in plastic bag sales by major retailers since 2014 – largely due to the implementation of the single-use carrier bag charge. Unfortunately, and despite this, 290.000 tonnes of single-use plastics are still thrown away every year. So, what can we do about it?
5 easy ways farm shops and delis can reduce waste
With approximately 1.580 farm shops and 1.516 delis operating in the UK, it’s easy to see that standing together against both plastic and food waste could positively impact our environment. If you’re wondering how, think about implementing these suggestions:
1. Recycle wherever possible
Small efforts go a long way, and by properly disposing of butchery bones, food scraps, tin cans, cardboard, bottles and cooking oil, you’ll be supporting the production of energy, digestates and biodiesel.
2. Have a refill scheme
Many shops are encouraging shoppers to refill products like juices, milk and honey in their own glassware to stop the excess use of plastics.
3. Sell your surplus at a discount
Over 16.000 businesses have joined the ‘Too Good to Go’ app, which enables you to offer ‘due date’ stock to customers at drastically reduced prices. This means that it will be consumed rather than thrown out.
4. Donate to a homeless shelter
Join your local charity and give away excess produce to help feed underprivileged adults and children.
5. Use sustainable shopping bags
Reusable and eco-friendly, fabric bags are an excellent way to work with the public in reducing waste. Plus, they have some noteworthy benefits that will help put your shop on the map.
Why tote bags are worth the investment
According to the statistics, 80% of Britons support the banning of single-use plastics as soon as possible, including carrier bags. So, before we even start on what makes them so useful, you already have buy-in from your public.
Aside from that, here are their pros:
- They’re brandable, giving you maximum visibility as they’re toted around.
- Customers are likely to have a better shopping experience.
- Their durability is outstanding, meaning that they’ll last for decades.
- They often get used for other activities, thereby promoting your brand further afield.
- They’re responsibly sourced.
Bearing the above in mind, it’s clear that they’re a win-win proposition that will also help you save the world.
Understanding the advantages of our sustainable fabrics
We’ve made sure that our bags are made from materials that are not only eco-friendly but also sturdy, comfortable and look as beautiful as your brand.
Our experts have provided the low down on their benefits so that you have all the intel you need to make an informed choice.
Recycled cotton
The perks
- Flexible and strong, it is perfect for a wide range of styles.
- It’s highly durable, giving consumers years of good use.
- It’s washable, so you can keep them clean.
- Recycled cotton is suitable for overprinting and embroidering.
The considerations
- It’s a little more expensive than regular cotton.
Jute
The perks
- It’s grown without the use of fertilisers and pesticides.
- Because it’s extremely strong, it’s good for big shops and frequent use.
- Jute is recyclable, biodegradable and compostable.
- It can be dyed, printed and embroidered.
- It’s cost effective.
The considerations
- It has a rustic aesthetic, so it doesn’t suit all brand identities.
- It’s not an optimal choice if you have a design that requires fine printing.
Juco
The perks
- A blend of jute and cotton, juco offers the best of both worlds.
- It’s strong, durable and biodegradable, so it won’t harm the environment.
- This fabric is softer to the touch than its jute counterparts.
- The finer weave allows for a more detailed print design.
The considerations
- They cost more than regular jute.
Denim
The perks
- A derivative of cotton, it’s natural and renewable.
- It can withstand daily use and heavy loads.
- It doesn’t snag or tear easily.
- Denim can be washed.
- It has timeless appeal, making it a popular choice.
The considerations
- There are some variations in shade.
- It works best with lighter print colours.
What makes WBC bags stand out from the crowd?
We’re particularly proud of our fabric bag collection and work closely with our key supplier to ensure that they’re the best they can be. This is what makes them so outstanding:
- They are completely plastic free, right down to their cotton labels.
- We have a wide range of sizes and styles to choose from.
- They can be branded in-house.
- Our brilliant design team will follow your brief to ensure your personalisation is perfect.
- You’ll be able to have your branded bag within 10 working days.
- They will arrive in plastic-free packaging, further reducing your carbon footprint.
- We have a low minimum order policy.
- You can have a bespoke version made to suit your brand.
Also, every item sold contributes towards supporting our Cocobagh social business project, which teaches bag making skills to widowed women in West Bengal.
Get your farm shop and deli on board with plastic-free totes
If you want to start making a difference to the environment and enhance your brand visibility at the same time, then connect with us today. We’ll help you select the perfect bag for your business... and build a brighter future together.
