Home Bargains, the beloved discount retailer renowned for offering exceptional value across homeware, groceries, beauty products and toys, has provided a detailed explanation for its 20p charge on reusable carrier bags, a policy that has occasionally frustrated some of its loyal customers. The company, which originated in Liverpool and has grown to become one of Britain's fastest-expanding retail chains, has outlined its reasoning on its official website.
The Retailer's Environmental and Customer-Focused Rationale
In a clear statement addressing the charge, Home Bargains declares: "As a company, we have decided to only sell reusable carrier bags at 20p (40p in Northern Ireland), as we believe that this is the cheapest and most cost-effective reusable carrier bag on the high street." The retailer emphasises that this approach is designed to deliver dual benefits, supporting environmental sustainability while also providing value for shoppers. The company actively encourages customers to bring their own reusable bags when visiting their stores, promoting a reduce-and-reuse culture.
Understanding the Separate Mandatory 10p Single-Use Bag Charge
Alongside Home Bargains' specific policy, a separate nationwide regulation operates throughout England. According to government guidelines and reports from regional publications like the Liverpool Echo, there is a mandatory minimum charge of 10p for all single-use plastic carrier bags. This legal requirement applies to retailers of all sizes, from large chains to small independent shops and airport outlets.
The GOV.UK website specifies: "Retailers of any size (large, medium, small, micro and airport retailers) must charge a minimum of 10 pence for single-use carrier bags in England. You can be fined if you do not charge." However, only larger retailers—defined as those employing 250 or more full-time equivalent staff across all roles—are required to record and report the number of single-use bags they sell.
Specific Criteria for the 10p Single-Use Charge
The mandatory 10p fee (including VAT) applies specifically to single-use carrier bags that meet all of the following criteria:
- The bag must be unused—meaning it is new and has not previously been used for carrying sold goods.
- It must be made of plastic and be 70 microns thick or less.
- It must have handles, an opening, and must not be sealed.
Certain exemptions exist for particular products, including bags used to contain raw meat, fish, or other specific items where packaging is essential for hygiene or safety reasons.
Home Bargains: From Humble Beginnings to Retail Giant
Founded by Tom Morris in 1976 under the original name Home and Bargain, the retailer began with a single shop in Liverpool. It has since experienced remarkable growth, becoming a favourite destination for budget-conscious shoppers across the United Kingdom. Today, Home Bargains operates approximately 500 outlets nationwide and employs over 22,000 staff members.
The company proudly describes itself as "the largest employer on Merseyside and is the largest independent grocer in the country." Its expansion continues each year, solidifying its position as a major player in the UK retail landscape while maintaining its core commitment to offering affordable products to millions of customers.
