Paper Bags

Commercial paper bags are essential kit for UK cafés, restaurants, and shops looking to package their goods with a sustainable touch. From sturdy kraft paper designs to customisable branded options, these bags blend practicality with eco-credentials that today's customers love. With food-grade materials and varying weights from 35-120gsm, they're perfect for everything from artisan bakery goods to hefty takeaway orders. After 50 years in the game, we've seen how these bags complement food packaging supplies and takeaway containers brilliantly—giving businesses a complete packaging solution that enhances brand image while keeping sustainability front and centre.

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Commercial Paper Bags for Food Service & Retail

Brands Trusted by Industry Professionals

Key Features and Benefits

  • Eco-Friendly Materials Sustainable kraft paper—fully biodegradable and compostable.
  • Customisation Options Add your logo and branding—boosts recognition instantly.
  • Variable Weights Choose from 35-120gsm—matches perfectly to your needs.
  • Food-Grade Safety Specially treated papers—keeps food items fresh and safe.
  • Ergonomic Handles Twisted or flat paper grips—comfortable for customers.
  • Flat-Pack Storage Arrives folded flat—saves precious storage space.
  • Grease-Resistant Options Special coatings available—prevents leaks and stains.
  • Recyclable Construction Easy disposal—enhances your green credentials.

Essential Buying Considerations

Size and Capacity

  • Consider small (18x8x24cm) bags for bakery items—perfect size for pastries.
  • Medium (22x10x28cm) options suit most takeaway meals—ideal balance.
  • Large (26x17x25cm) bags handle substantial orders—prevents overloading.

Material and Durability

  • Standard 70gsm works for light items—pair with sandwich packaging.
  • Choose 100gsm+ for heavier products—stands up to hot food containers.
  • Consider wet-strength options for items that might create condensation.

How Commercial Paper Bags Work

Paper bags might seem straightforward, but there's clever engineering at work! Made from sustainable kraft paper (usually 35-120gsm depending on intended use), they're designed with reinforced bottoms that distribute weight evenly. Many feature flat or twisted paper handles that make carrying simple for customers. The food-grade versions have special coatings that prevent grease seepage—perfect for bakery items or takeaway meals. The manufacturing process involves precision folding and strong adhesives at stress points, ensuring they hold their shape even when filled with heavier items. It's this combination of thoughtful design and quality materials that makes them reliable workhorses for busy food and retail businesses!

Lucas Clarke, takeaway packaging expert, smiling brightly in a trendy café with packaging supplies behind him. Dressed in a green jacket and grey hoodie, relaxed and modern.

Trusted Insights from Lucas Clarke

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Packaging & Takeaway Consultant

7 years experience

"Paper bags might seem simple, but the right ones can make your takeaway look top-notch and keep food fresh on the go. Go for grease-resistant and sturdy handles—your customers (and their laps) will thank you!"

Safety Guidelines

  • Check Food Compatibility Ensure bags are food-grade for edible items—compliance matters.
  • Avoid Overloading Respect weight limits—prevents tears and accidents.
  • Mind Hot Contents Double-bag very hot items—protects customers.
  • Store Properly Keep in dry, clean areas—prevents contamination.
  • Check Regulations Follow food packaging laws—stays compliant.
  • Train Staff Teach proper packing techniques—avoids spills.

Top Tips for Using Commercial Paper Bags

For the best results, store your paper bags in a dry location away from moisture or steam—this preserves their strength. When packing hot food, consider using food wrap or containers first to prevent grease penetration. If you're using branded bags, position items so the logo remains visible when carried. For heavier items, reinforce the bottom of the bag by folding it slightly, and train staff to support the base when handing bags to customers—it's these little touches that prevent mishaps!

Benefits of Using Commercial Paper Bags

  • Brand Enhancement Presents a professional, eco-conscious image—improves perception.
  • Customer Satisfaction Provides convenient, sustainable carrier—boosts loyalty.
  • Bulk Savings Cost-effective when purchased wholesale—maximises margins.

Did You Know?

  • History Paper bags were invented in 1852—centuries of refinement.
  • Decomposition Biodegrades in 2-5 months—versus 500+ years for plastic.
  • Strength Quality kraft paper bags hold up to 12kg—surprisingly sturdy.
  • Marketing 40% of consumers remember brands on packaging—walking advertisements.
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Expert Insights on Commercial Paper Bags

After supplying packaging for half a century, we know a thing or two. 'Paper bags are having a proper renaissance,' notes Emma, our packaging specialist. 'They're not just eco-friendly, they're becoming a branding powerhouse for smart food businesses looking to showcase their sustainable credentials.'

  • Pros: Eco-friendly, customisable, increasingly preferred by consumers.
  • Cons: Less moisture-resistant than plastic—choose appropriate grades.

Who Needs Commercial Paper Bags?

  • Cafés & Bakeries Perfect for fresh pastries and to-go coffee—maintains freshness.
  • Restaurants Ideal for takeaway orders—enhances presentation.
  • Food Trucks Portable, lightweight packaging—streamlines service.
  • Retail Shops Branded carriers create walking advertisements—extends reach.
Paper Bags

Real-World Success with Commercial Paper Bags

Consider The Daily Loaf, a bustling bakery in Leeds that was struggling with their image. They switched from generic plastic bags to branded kraft paper bags with their rustic logo. 'It transformed how people saw us,' explains the owner. 'Customers now spot others carrying our distinctive bags around town, and they're coming in asking specifically for our sourdough.' The bags, paired with their cake boxes and bakery tissues, created a cohesive brand experience that's boosted their walk-in traffic by 35%—proving quality packaging pays for itself through enhanced perception.

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FAQs

  • Are paper bags truly better for the environment than plastic? Yes, they biodegrade in months rather than centuries—genuinely eco-friendly.
  • Can paper bags handle hot food containers? Heavier-weight bags (100gsm+) handle hot containers well with minimal insulation.
  • What's the minimum order for custom printed bags? Typically 1,000 units—cost-effective for even small cafés.
  • How long do branded paper bags take to produce? Usually 2-3 weeks from artwork approval—plan ahead.
  • Are food-grade paper bags water-resistant? Standard ones aren't—opt for treated versions for moist foods.
  • Can paper bags be recycled if they have food stains? Minor stains are fine—heavily soiled bags should be composted instead.

Looking for Equipment by Business Type?

Not sure where to start? Whether you're running a bustling café, opening a pizzeria, or managing a school canteen, we've made it easy to shop by business type. Explore handpicked equipment bundles and essentials tailored to your industry—saving you time and making sure you get exactly what you need.

Other Categories You Might Find Useful

We’ve selected some closely related categories that might be essential for your setup. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen or just making sure you’ve got everything covered, these links will help you explore more equipment that fits your needs.

What our Customers Say

  • 'Switched to these bags and customers actually comment on how nice they are!'

    D Daniel Farm Shop Owner, Norfolk
  • 'Strong enough for our heaviest pastries and look fantastic with our logo.'

    M Mira Artisan Bakery, Glasgow

Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Paper Bags?

  • Trusted Supplier 50 years supplying top UK food businesses—genuine expertise.
  • Fast Delivery Next-day options available—keeps you stocked.
  • Best Price Promise Competitive rates on bulk orders—maximises your budget.
  • Real Support Dedicated account managers—helps with reordering.

Ready to Explore Commercial Paper Bags?

Browse our complete range of food-grade and retail paper bags today. From custom-branded options to eco-friendly kraft varieties, we'll help you find the perfect sustainable packaging solution for your business needs!

Contact Us 0333 355 0535

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