Georgia Main Food Group launches program for shoppers to borrow reusable bags

B.C.-based grocer Georgia Main Food Group is helping shoppers cut back on paper bags with its new “Borrow a Bag” program.

Customers at most IGA and Fresh St. Market stores in the province will now be able to get a reusable bag for a refundable deposit of $2.99—a helpful alternative for those who sometimes forget their reusable bags at home.

When the bags are returned, the customer gets their deposit back and the bag is laundered and brought back to the store. 

“Many households have an overabundance of reusable bags that have accumulated over time and other customers opt for ‘single use’ paper bags which have significant environmental impacts,” said Tom Truchan, director, health and food safety, sustainability and logistics, Georgia Main Food Group. “Now at IGA and Fresh St. Market you don’t have to worry about forgetting your bag at home and even if you pile up a bunch of Borrow a Bags you can still bring them in at any time and get your $2.99 deposit back. The program is that simple and staff and customers in our pilot program are loving the common sense and peace of mind of it all.”

The program was initially piloted at IGA locations in Coquitlam and Surrey in 2023/24.