In recent years, the EU’s focus on fighting plastic pollution has increased. From 3 July 2021, various plastic products, such as disposable plates, cutlery and straws, will no longer be supplied to the EU. More and more frequently, EU member states are also questioning the use of disposable plastic bags. Some countries have taken measures to reduce the use of such bags, either by introducing charges for them or by removing them from the market completely. As one example, a mandatory fee for thin plastic bags was introduced in Lithuania from 1 July this year.
Bagfactory, the largest manufacturer of eco-friendly non-woven and paper bags in the Baltic states, has created an alternative to thin plastic bags. In June this year, the company presented thin reusable non-woven bags with a cut-out handle to the market. Shoppers can use these Bagfactory bags not only for purchasing fruit and vegetables at the supermarket, but also for storing home items, footwear, etc. The bags can be washed at a low temperature or recycled, and they are suitable for contact with food.
“We are pleased that our eco-friendly bags have been positively received by retailers and their customers. Bagfactory bags are manufactured through an automated process, in large quantities. Therefore, they cost shoppers considerably less than the reusable bags that have been available to date, which are usually made in a manual way,” said Gvidas Krolis, the CEO of Bagfactory.
According to the Bagfactory representatives, a bag should offer higher value for customers than just a single use, as has been the case until now. If a bag can be used multiple times and purchased at a low price, customers will want to purchase it. Gvidas Krolis believes that the benefits of a reusable bag are the best argument against continuing to use disposable plastic bags.
Sustainable Reusable Bags for Fashion Industry
By the end of this summer, Bagfactory is planning to present an upgraded version of their eco-friendly thin reusable non-woven bags – the cut-out handle will be replaced by a string. This is a patented solution that allows the bags to be manufactured in a completely automated way, not only in large quantities but also at a low net cost. These drawstring bags will ensure a secure closure and will be intended both for the food and fashion industry, including the manufacturers of shoes and jewellery. The bags are made of a soft non-woven material that prevents items from being scratched or parts of a product from falling out.
Bagfactory was founded in 2015 in Lithuania. It manufactures reusable bags for brands including Lidl, Aldi, Euronics and others. The company also supplies its products to the largest supermarkets in Germany, Benelux, France, Iceland, Malta and Scandinavia.