Cost of Plastic Shopping Bags
across the UK

# Plastic Shopping Bags Accreditation

In the UK, plastic shopping bags are primarily regulated under the Carrier Bags Charge Regulations 2015, which requires retailers to charge for single-use plastic bags. While there is no specific trade body exclusively accrediting plastic bag suppliers, relevant credentials include membership of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), which sets standards for packaging safety and quality, and certification under the British Standards Institution (BSI), particularly BS EN standards for plastic film and bag manufacturing. Additionally, suppliers may hold Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) or comply with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation's circular economy principles, demonstrating commitment to sustainability. These accreditations ensure that bags meet safety requirements, contain accurate labelling for the carrier bag charge, and are manufactured to consistent quality standards that protect both retailers and consumers.

To verify a provider's accreditation, you should ask for documented proof of membership or certification from recognised bodies such as the BRC or BSI, which can often be confirmed directly on those organisations' websites. Request copies of relevant certificates, audit reports, or compliance documentation, and check whether the supplier has undergone third-party assessment. It's also worthwhile asking about their quality control processes and whether they've been independently tested for bag strength, print durability, and material composition. This verification matters because accredited suppliers have been vetted against established standards, reducing the risk of receiving substandard bags that could fail under normal use, damage your brand through poor quality, or breach regulations around the carrier bag charge through inaccurate labelling.

Accredited plastic bag suppliers typically charge a premium of between 5 and 15 percent compared to non-accredited alternatives, reflecting the costs of maintaining certification, undergoing regular audits, and adhering to stricter quality controls. However, this premium is usually justified because accredited providers offer consistency, lower defect rates