The Universal Bag is the next generation of reusable bags that is said to be durable, 100% recyclable and can be used anywhere for all purposes
The Universal Bag is made from 100% recycled plastic and each step and material is GRS certified. (Credit: Co-operative Group Limited)
Fashion brand Anya Hindmarch in collaboration with UK-based food retailers Asda and Co-op has launched a new shopping bag solution, dubbed Universal Bag, to promote a reuse mindset.
The Universal Bag is the next generation of reusable bags that is said to be durable, 100% recyclable and can be used anywhere for all purposes.
The Co-op version will be available from 315 locations nationwide starting at the end of March, while the Asda version will be available starting at the end of February in 300 stores across the country in its brand’s green colour.
The collaboration follows successful, long-running partnerships with Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, and Selfridges Food Halls in the UK and City’SUPER in Hong Kong.
Designed by Anya Hindmarch and produced by the Solent Group, the Universal Bag is available at all retail partners for £10 and has a 10-year warranty.
Co-op, a UK-based co-operative group, said that the bag can be recycled by folding it into their free returns pocket built into a pocket inside the bag. Customers can turn the bag into a pocket which acts as a pre-addressed envelope.
The bag supports the sustainability strategies of all three firms to reduce impact and protect and conserve the environment. It will also help to minimise the consumption of single-use plastic.
Co-op chief membership and customer officer Kenyatte Nelson said: “Co-op champions a better way of doing business and sustainability is front and centre of the decisions we make.
“In 2021, we made the bold and right move to ban plastic ‘bags for life’ from sale in our convenience stores offering our shoppers compostable bags and durable, reusable alternatives.
“Our collaboration with Anya Hindmarch and the Universal Bag project is another way in which we can engage and incentivise our members and customers to encourage them to shop more sustainably.”
According to the co-operative group, the Universal Bag is a 100% recyclable product. It is developed using recycled plastic, and every process and component has been approved by the Global Recycling Scheme (GRS).
Additionally, the bag is designed to be desirable by increasing the reuse behaviour in the customers.