Big W will phase out its 15-cent and 45-cent reusable plastic bags from stores by the end of June next year.
The move comes ahead of World Environment Day this Sunday (5 June), and will see more than 9,000 tonnes of plastic removed from circulation annually.
The Woolworths subsidiary will also phase out its reusable plastic bags nationally by the end of June 2023, introducing additional bag options into the range ahead of the change to complement its existing line of fabric bags and printed totes.
Woolworths Supermarkets MD Natalie Davis said there has been a major shift in customer expectations.
“Customers expect us to lead on sustainability, and this is one way we are growing greener by reducing plastic and ensuring the regular trip to your local Woolworths or Big W is having less impact on the environment.
“We know the change may be an adjustment for some customers and that’s why we’re phasing this change in over the coming year. We’d like to thank customers in advance for their support as we all work together to create a better tomorrow.”
The change has already taken place in Western Australia, where Woolworths supermarkets began phasing out plastic bags in March ahead of new local plastics laws in the state.
No other states currently have bans on the sale of thicker reusable plastic bags.
Customers in Western Australia have responded well to the move, with 76 per cent saying they support it.
Woolworths stores in South Australia and Northern Territory will be the next to phase out the bags, with the transition set to begin by September this year.
Other states will follow, as stores begin gradually running down stock of the reusable plastic bag prior to its removal.
Woolworths and Big W will help customers to prepare for the upcoming change, providing notice in each state ahead of time, with reminders via email, advertising and signs in store.