Waitrose claims it is on target to cut single-use carrier bag usage by 50% by the end of the year.
Writing on his blog, Waitrose managing director Mark Price says the reduction is thanks to a combination of promoting its “bag for life” and introducing a new “ask first” initiative in all the retailer’s stores.
In a thinly veiled pop at rival Marks & Spencer, which has started charging shoppers 5p per bag, Price adds: “I’m delighted that so many customers have seen the benefits of switching rather than us having to impose a tax.”
He continues: “I’m also pleased to report that the recycling bins for our plastic bags are being heavily used, so much so that now 30% of our plastic bags’ content is made from recylate.
“We’re also making excellent progress on investing £55m to replace old refrigeration, which is heading towards a dramatic cut in our CO2 emissions.”
