Woolworths has introduced a new range of reusable bags, made from 70 per cent recycled materials, designed to celebrate and support Australian communities, including designs by Indigenous artists.
The first in the new art bag range have been designed in collaboration with Warumungu, Wombaya woman Jessica Johnson, founder of First Nations-owned and run creative agency Nungala Creative.
To launch the art bag, Woolworths is also partnering with the Yothu Yindi Foundation, which it says is to give back to Australian communities by supporting the education of Yolngu students in Northeast Arnhem land in the Northern Territory, with an initial donation of $100,000 made to the foundation.
The Art Bag range joins Woolworths’ growing family of reusable shopping bags and is set to feature designs from up-and-coming Australian artists.
Woolworths says its bags are made using at least 70 per cent recycled materials, and that the new range is now available to purchase across Australia, in-stores and online. The company explains the bags are larger than the current 99-cent bag and offering two different handles, with a longer strap for ease of carrying over the shoulder. Shoppers can choose from a selection of three designs for $2 each.
The designs by Johnson celebrate the joy of fresh food and connection to the land, with her three works titled ‘Fresh as’, ‘Journey Lines’ and ‘Landtracks’.
Johnson commented: “I was super excited to have the opportunity to create the artwork for the new range of bags for the fresh food people.”
Woolworths Supermarkets managing director, Natalie Davis, said: “We’re pleased to add the new Art Bag range to our collection, and for the opportunity to create bags that showcase the creativity of Australian artists such as Jessica.
“We know that the vast majority of our customers already bring their own reusable bags to shop, which is the very best outcome for the environment, and the new range gives customers even more reusable options to choose from when they shop.”
“As we worked to bring the new Art Bag range to life, we remained focused on our goal to create a collection of reusable bags that could give back to the community. In working with the Yothu Yindi Foundation, we’re proud to support their work in creating an education hub for Yolngu students in Northeast Arnhem land.”
The Yothu Yindi Foundation is one of Australia’s leading not-for-profit organisations, representing the interests of Yolngu clan groups in northeast Arnhem Land, and staging the annual Garma Festival.
The Art Bag range joins a number of reusable carry bag options for Woolworths customers to choose from. This includes the 25-cent paper bag, the 99-cent shopping bag, foldable fabric bags and chiller bags.
