The chief executive, Allan Gordon said the change has been the air for some time, but the decision to move away from single use plastic bags has been driven by customer attitudes. 

“We’ve seen a dramatic increase in reusable bag sales since we started phasing out single use bags last July and commend customers on their willingness to help keep the Hastings clean and green,” he said.

Hastings Co-op IGAs already have a range of reusable bags in store.

 A new Co-op-branded reusable bag will be introduced in the middle of this month, and will be available to customers free of charge until February 1. After that, they will be sold for 10c each.

Mr Gordon said other sustainability initiatives across Hastings Co-op’s 16 businesses include:

“We’ve listened to our customers and are doing everything we can to be more environmentally conscious,” Mr Gordon said. 

Customers at the Wauchope IGA were in favour of the move.

“I think everybody is doing it, so we should be able to adjust,” said Lexie Toms.

“I’m happy to bring my own bags and I think it’s a good thing,” said Rachel Howe.

“It’s fair enough.  I try and remember my own bags when I go shopping,” said Cindy Blythe.

“It’s a good idea.  There’s too much waste,” said Janice Blythe.

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