As the world becomes increasingly eco-conscious, many of us are on the lookout for sustainable alternatives to everyday items.
Woolworths has recently introduced a new product that’s stirring up quite the conversation among shoppers: a $20 reusable shopping bag designed by luxury UK accessories designer Anya Hindmarch.
The Universal Bag, as it’s been named, has made its debut in Woolies stores across the nation, sporting the supermarket’s signature green colourway.
It’s not just any ordinary shopping bag; this one is crafted from 100 per cent recycled plastic and comes with a 10-year guarantee. But it’s the price tag that’s causing a stir.
Anya Hindmarch is no stranger to the world of high-end fashion.
Her Universal Bag project, launched in 2021, has seen her design durable, reusable shopping bags for prestigious food retailers globally, including Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, and Selfridges in the UK, as well as Seijo Ishi and Meidi-Ya in Japan.
The collaboration with Woolworths marks Hindmarch’s first foray into the Australian market.
The bag’s $20 cost has sparked a debate among consumers, with a TikTok video by @allylikesshopping showcasing the new bag going viral, amassing over 78,000 views.
Some viewers were quick to criticise the price, citing the current cost of living crisis and questioning the decision to introduce such an expensive bag.
Comments ranged from disbelief to outright rejection, with one user saying, ‘$20 is insane … it’s not even insulated … looks like a solid bag … but the price is crazy.’
On the flip side, there are those who consider $20 a bargain for a piece associated with a designer whose bags typically sell for between $700 and $4000.
Fans of Hindmarch’s work argue that the price is a steal for a designer bag, with one commenter noting, ‘$20 for an Anya Hindmarch bag is a steal,’ and another simply adding, ‘Anya Hindmarch, IYKYK (If You Know, You Know).’
Despite the divided opinions, Woolworths continues to offer a range of other reusable bags starting at 25 cents, catering to all budgets. The Universal Bag project itself has been a success in terms of sustainability, with Hindmarch claiming that it has saved more than 230 tonnes of plastic from ending up in landfills.
Hindmarch’s commitment to reducing plastic pollution is not new.
She began her collaboration with food retailers back in 2007 with the ‘I Am Not A Plastic Bag’ campaign, partnering with Sainsbury’s to sell a reusable shopping tote that became a fashion statement in its own right.
So, is the Woolworths’ latest $20 designer bag worth the hype?
It depends on who you ask, it seems. For some, it’s an overpriced piece of plastic; for others, it’s an affordable entry into designer goods that aligns with their environmental values.
We’d love to hear from you. What do you think about Woolworths’ new designer reusable bag? Is it a savvy investment in sustainability or an unnecessary luxury?
Would you consider purchasing one, or do you prefer sticking to more budget-friendly options? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Also read: Woolworths receives praise for thoughtful support after cyclone chaos
