Starting January 1, 2026, a new statewide law — SB 1053 — takes effect in California, banning all plastic shopping bags at most supermarkets, retail stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, and other retailers that offer carryout bags at checkout.
Under the new rules:
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Only recycled paper bags, durable reusable bags, or in limited cases, certified compostable bags will be allowed at checkout, curbside pickup, and delivery.
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Paper bags must meet certain requirements (e.g. displaying manufacturer name, recycled-content percentage, and origin) and retailers must charge a minimum of 10 cents per bag.
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The law does not ban all plastic — certain bags remain exempt (like produce bags, bulk-food bags, or plastic bags used for contamination prevention).
In other words: for many retailers across California, “paper or plastic?” becomes simply “paper only.”
The shift is motivated by environmental concerns. Thicker “reusable” plastic bags — once allowed under earlier laws — didn’t solve plastic waste: many weren’t reused and still ended up in landfills or waterways.
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Why This Matters for Supermarkets & Retailers
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Regulatory compliance is mandatory. Stores face fines for non-compliance.
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Customer experience needs adjustment. Shoppers will now be paying for bags, and in many cases may bring their own reusable bags. Retailers must plan ahead so supplies are ready.
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Supply chains need to pivot. Plastic-bag suppliers become irrelevant — and paper bag suppliers become essential. Retailers that don’t switch in time risk disruption at checkout lines.
Given how fundamental bags are to every transaction, this isn’t a minor change. It’s a systemic shift.
Meet Pon-Eco: Supplying the Bags of the Future (Paper, Not Plastic)
Enter Pon-Eco — a supplier with experience in wholesale disposable foodservice and retail packaging solutions. While Pon-Eco historically provided items like disposable take-out containers, they are well-positioned to support retailers adapting to the 2026 ban.
Here’s what Pon-Eco brings to the table:
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SOS Paper Bags — sturdy, simple paper bags ideal for carryout groceries and general retail use; a reliable replacement for plastic film bags. (Manufacturers like those listed on paper-bag supplier directories typically offer SOS-style paper bags.)
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Kraft Paper Bags with Twisted Handles — a more premium paper-bag option, great for retailers who want a nicer presentation (e.g., boutique shops, gift-oriented retailers). Many paper-bag suppliers — similar to Pon-Eco — offer this style for businesses aiming for both sustainability and brand image.
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Custom Logo Printing Services — to help retailers brand their paper bags, maintain a professional look at checkout, and reinforce their commitment to sustainability. Custom printing is a common option from paper packaging suppliers.
In short: Pon-Eco isn’t just offering “paper instead of plastic.” We're offering a seamless transition — helping retailers meet compliance and maintain a polished, brand-conscious presentation.
Why Retailers Should Consider Switching Now (Not Later)
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Avoid last-minute shortages. With every supermarket and store scrambling to replace millions of plastic bags, paper-bag suppliers may get overwhelmed. Early orders ensure you’re stocked up.
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Build goodwill with eco-conscious customers. Many California shoppers appreciate sustainability efforts — offering quality paper bags (especially with brand logos) can reinforce a positive brand image.
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Stay ahead of compliance enforcement. The new law carries potential fines for violations. By partnering with a supplier like Pon-Eco early, you minimize risk.
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Flexible bag options. SOS bags for standard groceries or volume loads; twisted-handle Kraft for higher-end customers or retail — gives flexibility depending on the store’s clientele and needs.
Final Thoughts
The zero-plastic-bag mandate coming in January 2026 represents a turning point — for retailers, supply chains, and everyday shoppers. For supermarkets and big-box stores in California, this isn’t just a new checkbox for compliance. It’s a logistical shift that calls for planning, volume purchasing, and thoughtful supply-chain decisions.
Suppliers like Pon-Eco are poised to help make that transition smoother — offering paper bag solutions (SOS paper, Kraft paper with twisted handles, even custom-printed options) that meet regulatory requirements and preserve retail presentation.
For retailers, the message is clear: start planning now. Stock up. Order smart. And when January 1 hits, be ready — not scrambling.
If you like, I can also mock up a sample customer notice or “We’re Going Plastic-Free” poster for retailers to display at checkout. Want me to draft one for you now?
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