Frequently Asked Questions
Do takeaways have to charge for carrier bags?
Yes, in the UK, most takeaway businesses are legally required to charge a minimum of 10p for single-use carrier bags, including both plastic and paper bags. This regulation applies to all retailers, regardless of size, and aims to reduce plastic waste and encourage the use of reusable bags.
Exceptions include:
- Bags used solely for unwrapped food that is intended for immediate consumption, such as chips or food sold in containers that are not secure enough to prevent leakage during normal handling.
- Bags containing hot food or hot drinks.
- For all other situations, including deliveries, the charge applies. Retailers are encouraged to donate the proceeds to charity, although this is not mandatory.
Can takeaway bags be recycled?
Many of the takeaway bags we offer, such as our kraft paper bags, are recyclable, provided they are clean and free from food residue. Our paper bags are made from responsibly sourced materials and can be placed in most household or commercial recycling streams. For plastic bags, recyclability depends on local facilities, but we recommend opting for our recyclable or reusable options where possible. Choosing the right bag from our range can help reduce environmental impact and support your sustainability goals.
What makes paper bags durable?
The durability of our paper bags comes down to their high-quality kraft paper construction and strong design features. Kraft paper is made using long, natural fibres, giving it excellent tear resistance and load-bearing strength. Many of our bags also feature reinforced handles and sturdy bases, making them ideal for carrying heavier takeaway items. This combination of material and design ensures our paper bags are both reliable and practical for busy foodservice environments.
Are paper bags biodegradable?
Yes, the paper bags we supply, such as our kraft takeaway bags, are biodegradable. Made from natural fibres, they break down much more quickly than plastic alternatives, especially when disposed of in composting or environmentally friendly waste streams. This makes them a great choice for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact. Just ensure the bags are free from food grease or heavy contamination to allow proper decomposition.
How do plastic bags harm the environment?
Plastic bags can cause significant harm to the environment because they take hundreds of years to decompose. During that time, they can break down into microplastics that pollute soil and waterways, posing risks to wildlife and marine life that may ingest them. Plastic bags are also often not recycled properly, contributing to landfill waste and litter. That’s why many businesses are switching to eco-friendly alternatives like our kraft paper bags, which are recyclable, biodegradable, and made from renewable resources. we also offer a biodegradable plastic bag option, designed to break down more quickly and with less environmental impact.
Do you offer support for choosing the right packaging?
If you're struggling to find the right solution, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us, and we'll do our best to help you find a suitable product.
How long will it take to receive my order?
- Standard deliveries are expected to arrive within 2-3 working days. Exclusions include Northern Ireland and some areas of the Highlands.
- Express delivery guarantees delivery on the next working day on all orders placed before 2pm.
Can I place a bulk order? Are there discounts available?
If you're looking to place larger, repeat orders with tailored pricing, give our customer service team a call and we'd be happy to look at opening an account for you.
What should I do if my order arrives damaged or incorrect?
- If you’re unhappy with your purchases for any reason, you can return them to us in accordance with our returns policy.
- Any damages must be notified within 24 hours. Any notification after this point cannot be processed as we will be unable to claim against the courier.
Get in touch
Please don't hesitate to get in contact with our customer service team for all enquiries regarding your food packaging needs. Whatever the question, we’ll be more than happy to assist you in any way we can.
Phone: 01912962007
Email: orders@gmpackaging.co.uk