Woolworths unveils big change at checkouts

Woolworths has unveiled a new range of reusable bags designed to support and celebrate local communities. The first in a series that will feature designs from up-and-coming Aussie artists, the Art Bag range was created in collaboration with Jessica Johnson, a founder of First Nations-owned creative agency Nungala Creative.

Made using at least 70 per cent recycled materials and available in-store or online for $2 each, the bags are larger than the supermarket giant's current 99 cent bags, and feature two handles, including a longer strap for shoulder carrying.

To launch the range, Woolies is partnering with the Yothu Yindi Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation representing Yolngu clan groups in northeast Arnhem Land, pledging an initial donation of $100,000 to support the education of students in the region. The foundation's mission is to improve the wellbeing and life opportunities of Yolngu and other Indigenous Australians, and create a world-class education hub in the Garma Institute.

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Woolworths Supermarkets Managing Director Natalie Davis said the new range provides customers with more sustainable bag options and a chance to give back to the community. "We know that the vast majority of our customers already bring their own reusable bags to shop, which is the very best outcome for the environment, and the new range gives customers even more reusable options to choose from when they shop," Ms Davis said. "In working with the Yothu Yindi Foundation, we're proud to support their work in creating an education hub for Yolngu students in Northeast Arnhem land.”

For Ms Johnson, the designs are a celebration of the joy of fresh food and connection to the land. "Food is life," she said. "It's at the centre of almost everything I do, playing the lead role during the good times and bad. It can provide a great little bit of escapism and take you on a journey."

The Art Bag range joins Woolworths' growing collection of reusable bags, which includes 25-cent paper bags, foldable fabric bags and chiller bags. The supermarket hopes that the new Art Bag range will inspire customers to shop more sustainably and support local artists and communities.

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