Why we are putting our bulk bag return service on 'hold'?

As a company committed to sustainability and customer satisfaction, we are constantly evaluating our services to ensure they align with our values and meet the needs of our customers. After careful consideration, we have decided to put the 'return your empty bulk bag' service on hold.

Here we explain the reasons behind this decision.

Cost prohibitive returns

Over time, the cost of returning empty bulk bags has become economically prohibitive. The logistics involved in collecting, inspecting, and processing the returned bags have become increasingly expensive. These costs ultimately impact the prices we can offer to our customers. By removing the return service, we can redirect these resources towards improving the overall quality and affordability of our products. Also, we have to start considering the environmental costs of returning  these bags via the courier service - fuel used etc.

Safety concerns

Another factor that influenced our decision is the condition of many returned bags. Unfortunately, a significant number of bags that are returned to us are torn or cut, making them unsuitable for re-use. This poses safety concerns, as compromised bags may not provide the necessary strength and durability required for their intended purpose. Ensuring the safety of our customers is of utmost importance to us, and removing the return service helps us maintain that commitment.

Wasted packaging

In every bulk bag sent out, a grey mailer bag and an instruction sheet are enclosed. Presently only 10% of bags are being returned which means 90% of the plastic mailer bags and leaflets are ending up not used for their purpose. 

Supporting charitable causes

Instead of allocating resources to process returned bags, we have decided to make an annual donation towards a suitable charitable cause. By doing so, we can make a positive impact in areas that align with our values and contribute to the betterment of society. We believe that this change will allow us to create a more meaningful and lasting impact.

Are they recyclable? 

We introduced bulk bags with 30% recycled material in early 2022. All our bags were moved to this specification as soon as our manufacturer began offering it. The bags are still manufactured using 100% polypropylene, but 30% of the bag (by weight) is manufactured using 30% recycled polypropylene.

So, yes – the bags are 100% recyclable, but they are not accepted by all councils through the kerb side collections (some do not accept flexible plastics as of yet), so it is worth checking.

Alternative uses for bulk bags

While we are removing the return service, we encourage our customers to explore alternative ways to reuse bulk bags. One creative example shared by a customer was using the bulk bag as a weather shield. Others being used for moving garden waste. This demonstrates the versatility of bulk bags and how they can be repurposed for various needs. If you cannot find alternative uses, we encourage you to recycle where possible. It would also be great to hear what innovative ways you have to re-purpose your bags.

This decision to put this service 'on hold' has not been taken lightly as we feel its an important part of our overall service but whilst some of our customers use the service, the percentage is still very small to make a significant difference. We feel that donating money saved to a good charitable cause would have far more benefit.

We are sorry to be 'holding' this service for the time being but appreciate your understanding and continued support as we strive to provide the best products and services while staying true to our values of sustainability and customer satisfaction.