From in-store displays to “Remember Your Bags” reminder signs on cart corrals, Publix encourages its customers to use reusable bags. These bags were introduced in the early 2000s, and are important to Publix sustainability efforts, minimizing the use of plastic bags in its stores. 

Sustainability Effort 
Because of the surge in popularity of reusable bags, the use of plastic has dropped significantly. Since 2007, Publix had saved over 7.5 billion paper and plastic bags due to reusable bags. 

To further reduce the number of plastic bags used, stores have provided ongoing training to associates about proper bagging techniques. 

In addition, customers are encouraged to recycle the plastic bags they do use in the recycling bins provided in front of each store. 

Creating Our Bags 
The Green Bag Company manufactures most of the nonwoven polypropylene reusable bags used by Publix. Nonwoven polypropylene is a lightweight but strong recyclable fabric that is easy to clean and convenient to carry. 

The Publix purchasing department collaborates with the marketing team to develop different designs and graphics for the reusable bags. Many different designs are chosen, some that signify the time of the year, such as Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween and the different seasons. Publix also designs special bags for grand openings.