Primark starts charging 15p for its iconic paper bags, angering many shoppers, while others support the sustainability move

Primark shoppers are fuming over the store’s decision to start charging for its once-free brown paper bags, with a 15p fee now applying to all sizes. The controversial change, which kicked off on May 12, 2025, is part of the retailer’s initiative to reduce single-use paper waste and encourage sustainable shopping habits.

The news, announced via the Facebook group Bag a Weekly Bargain, has sparked a wave of frustration from loyal customers. One shopper lamented, “I thought paper bags were supposed to be free as they are recyclable?” while another expressed disappointment, saying, “I won’t shop there anymore—prices have gone up, and the quality has gone down.”

Others echoed similar complaints, noting that the 15p charge felt like a step too far in the retailer’s rising prices. “For a lot of stuff, the prices are on par with Next, but the quality certainly isn’t,” one shopper commented.

However, some customers weren’t as upset, with one pointing out the bag’s poor quality: “They break if you have more than four items, not even worth the 15p.” Despite the criticism, Primark’s move has some backing, as the retailer aims to cut back on its environmental impact.

Primark’s spokesperson explained that the charge on paper bags would apply to all sizes, whether small, medium, or large. They emphasised that while the paper bags are made from 100% recycled and recyclable materials, the store wanted to reduce single-use waste. “Reducing single-use paper is one small step we and our customers can take to reduce waste,” the spokesperson stated, adding, “We hope this encourages more shoppers to switch to reusable bags.”

The move comes after a similar charge has been in place for single-use plastic bags in many regions, with Wales already enforcing a 5p charge on paper bags since 2011 as part of efforts to reduce disposable bag usage.

Primark also suggested that customers bring their own reusable bags, a recommendation aimed at minimising reliance on paper bags altogether. The company has stated that it uses thousands of paper bags every day, further highlighting its drive to lessen the environmental toll of such disposable items.

While the new fee on paper bags has stirred up discontent, Primark’s decision to implement it comes at a challenging time for the brand. Recently, Primark’s chief executive, Paul Marchant, stepped down after an investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour towards a female staff member. This resignation, following a prior complaint, has added to the negative spotlight surrounding the retailer.

The parent company, Associated British Foods (ABF), announced that Marchant had cooperated with the investigation, acknowledged his missteps, and apologised to the affected individual, Primark colleagues, and the board. Despite the controversy, ABF affirmed its commitment to supporting those involved in the incident.

Primark’s introduction of the 15p paper bag fee is just the latest in a series of changes that have left shoppers divided. While the store’s efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainability may appeal to some, others feel the new charge adds to a growing list of frustrations with the brand’s evolving pricing strategy.

As the debate over the paper bag fee continues, many shoppers are left questioning whether Primark’s sustainability efforts are worth the price.