Paper or plastic? That’s one of the big questions nowadays. It is possible to get quality bags either way you go. Let’s start with the plastic options. The most common bag that we all see is called a t-shirt bag. You know, the type with handles that the majority of grocery stores use. These bags are 100% recyclable, economical and come in a wide variety of colors, weights and sizes. Plain white is popular but black is gaining in popularity, not only because it provides a bit of privacy for one’s purchases but it’s also a hip yet classic color. You can thank your customers all the way home by investing in “thank you” bags. These bags are available in white or black and the white bags also have the option of a happy smiley face. Color t-shirt bags in blue, green or red are also fun and are especially appropriate if the colors match or complement your business’ color motif. Frosted shopping bags or merchandise bags with handles are a stylish option in plastic bags. So you see, plastic bags are functional and can be attractive but some customers perceive paper bags to be a little more polished than plastic.

Paper shopping bags with twisted paper handles are attractive and stand upright on their flat bottoms when unfolded which makes it a snap to bag items at checkout. These modish yet functional bags are available in classic kraft and in white as well as a wide variety of sophisticated colors. And, as if they weren’t already terrific in their own right, the paper shopping bags are also super easy to personalize. Just place an appealing and eye-catching custom label on the sides of the bags and you’ve got yourself some stylish bags that do double-duty as advertisements! Don’t have access to a printer? Not a problem. Custom labels can be created for you! If you need something just a little more basic than shopping bags there is a variety of natural kraft paper bags and colored merchandise bags for you to choose from. Feel like getting fancy? Pop a little tissue paper into the top of the bag to give it a festive and fun appearance. Now let’s think outside the disposable bag.

What about reusable shopping bags? These non-woven polypropylene tote bags are water-resistant and washable so they can be used over and over, perfect for those customers who don’t care for paper or plastic. The reusable bags come in a variety of popular colors and can also be custom printed with your store’s information. So, not only will customers actually purchase these bags from you, they will actually be advertising your store every time they reuse the bag!

I, personally, am torn between paper and plastic. Both types are recyclable, which I think is important for the environment. The reason I like to receive plastic bags while shopping is because I use them for other things after unpacking my purchases, like cleaning the cat box or as small trashcan liners. I also enjoy receiving paper shopping bags because I like to use small bags for toting my lunch and larger bags for easy handling when I’m carrying items one-way, like to Goodwill or to a party. And here’s the thing: when I reach for a bag to reuse, the store that I received it from pops into my head. What I’m saying is, even after you send your customers home, many of them still hang on to your bags to reuse rather recycle them which is why “Meh. I guess this bag will do” maybe should be “Which bag do I want my customers to associate with my business?”