Vince's 'proactive' in phasing out plastic bags within 45 days

In response to a federal government restriction, Vince's Market is phasing out single-use plastic bags and anticipates being entirely free of them in the upcoming 45 days. The ban prohibits the "the import and manufacture of single-use plastic checkout bags, cutlery, food service ware made from problematic plastics, stir sticks, and straws." 

Single-use plastic ban of Vince’s Market

The sale of these items will be restricted by December 2023, giving retailers the rest of the year to use up their stock of single-use plastics. According to Vince's president Giancarlo Trimarchi, the business is "proactive on this subject" and expects to stop selling plastic bags in 30 to 45 days. This also applies to Vince's bio-bags, which, despite being compostable in the right conditions, are prohibited since they are viewed as single-use products. 

Vince’s Market encourage customers to bring reusable bags 

"We encourage all customers to bring reusable bags on their shopping trips. It is understood that for a reusable bag to become ‘net-zero’ in its carbon footprint, it must be used approximately 35 times. After that, the beneficial impacts are realized. So we encourage shoppers to reduce and reuse as much as possible," Trimarchi said.

According to him, store employees will pack groceries in any reusable bags and cartons that customers bring in. Customers can purchase reusable bags from Vince's selection of options or buy one from a retailer for 35 cents.

"We feel strongly that our new, affordable poly non-woven bags will provide the best experience when compared to paper bags – and with the least environmental impact. Our bio-based produce and meat bags will still be available in stores, as these are not part of the current government ban," Trimarchi said. 

Single-Use Innovation Challenge

As part of the Single-Use Innovation Challenge for York Region, businesses are urged to provide creative alternatives to single-use plastics. It provides non-profit organizations and social enterprises with $20,000 in cash if they develop an innovative, neighborhood-driven strategy for businesses to cut back on their usage of plastic.

The deadline for the challenge is Jan.8 and applicants can join online.

Credit: Elizabeth Keith/ BRADFORD TODAY

TLPPACKAGING FOR SHOPPING BAGS