Is it just me or is charging 50p for a paper bag at M&S food outrageous?

206 replies

sequin2000 · 17/06/2025 21:03

I know I should have brought a bag and I usually do. If the option was a plastic bag I would have struggled with the shopping in my arms to the car, but I thought as it was paper it wasn't so bad. What I didn't expect was to be charged 50p. M&S say the bag can be used 100 times. Is there anyone out there who has reused an M&S paper bag? AIBU in thinking most people don't realise they cost 50p, that the assistants should make this clear and that M&S are profiting from this government policy?

OP posts:

Sassysia · 17/06/2025 21:21

Lmnop22 · 17/06/2025 21:05

I agree with you. The surcharge was because it isn’t recyclable and to minimise use of single use plastics not because you could use it again - paper is recyclable so ought to be free!

This 100%

BilderbergPoop · 17/06/2025 21:20

I’m fairness, they’re top quality paper bags. That said, it’s very hard to carry more than one in one hand.

Spies · 17/06/2025 21:10

Lmnop22 · 17/06/2025 21:05

I agree with you. The surcharge was because it isn’t recyclable and to minimise use of single use plastics not because you could use it again - paper is recyclable so ought to be free!

Agreed. I wouldn't be impressed at that cost either but unfortunately it seems like many shops are now charging for paper bags including Morrisons and Primark, I think it's just become a way to increase more profit rather than help the environment.

Lmnop22 · 17/06/2025 21:05

I agree with you. The surcharge was because it isn’t recyclable and to minimise use of single use plastics not because you could use it again - paper is recyclable so ought to be free!

SDTGisAnEvilWolefGenius · 17/06/2025 21:05

My dh has a similar bag, from Morrisons, and has reused it a number of times already, and it still looks like new, @sequin2000.

Mum2jenny · 17/06/2025 21:04

YANBU

Unflip

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9