With the introduction of a charge for plastic shopping bags, many people are likely starting to use their own bags more.

The Isetan Mitsukoshi Group, which has previously engaged in sustainable activities such as smart wrapping, clothing recycling, and rooftop greenery, will gradually phase out the provision of its own plastic shopping bags and plastic grocery bags at its domestic group department stores from July 1st. To promote the use of reusable bags, original compact bags will be sold and paper bags will be available for a fee.

Our goal is to create a lifestyle where using and carrying your own bag is the standard.

"Our goal is to create a lifestyle where using and carrying your own bag is the standard," says Rieko Tsukada, a planning staff member in the General Affairs Department who promotes the Isetan Mitsukoshi Group's sustainability activities.

"I feel that customers' environmental awareness is increasing year by year. In the Customer Sustainability Survey conducted last year, the top answer to the question, 'What initiatives can you support to reduce the use of excessive packaging that puts a strain on the environment?' was 'bringing your own bag.' Not only that, we're also seeing an increase in customers saying that they place importance on whether the companies they shop with are committed to sustainability," says Tsukada.

The survey also showed that customers were particularly sympathetic to environmentally conscious initiatives. "Charging for shopping bags may not completely solve the problem of marine plastic pollution. However, I think it's important that actions people can take, such as using their own bags, can serve as an opportunity to think about environmental issues. I hope that the Isetan Mitsukoshi Group can also support this through its sustainability activities," says Tsukada.

Original Foldable Compact Bag

Original Compact Bag (approx. W460mm x H370mm (excluding handle) x D100mm) ¥900 (tax included)
*Sales period: Year-round (Please forgive us if the item is out of stock.)
[Stores selling the original compact bag]
Black: Isetan Shinjuku, Isetan Tachikawa, Isetan Urawa, Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store, Ginza Mitsukoshi, Ebisu Mitsukoshi
Macmillan/Isetan: Isetan Shinjuku, Isetan Tachikawa, Isetan Urawa, Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store
*The next sale will be from August 7th.
*Not available on the online store.
*It may also be available in some other Isetan Mitsukoshi group stores.

Also, the aluminum sheet-lined reusable bags are rapidly gaining popularity.

MacMillan Bag (with aluminum sheet) (W460mm x H295mm (excluding handle) x D210mm) ¥550 (tax included)
*Sales period: All year round
Isetan has already been selling reusable bags as part of its sustainable initiatives. One of the most popular items is the MacMillan bag with an aluminum sheet lining. It's practical because you can easily store heavy items in one bag and hang it over your shoulder. The wide bottom gusset makes it easy to store things like sashimi packs without standing them up. "We received many inquiries immediately after the product went on sale. We were surprised by the huge response, and at the same time, we felt that there is a growing need for reusable bags. The stylish MacMillan design and the convenience of the aluminum sheet and zipper make it appealing. We hope you will make use of it when shopping for fresh produce!" (Tsukada)

*Available at: Isetan Shinjuku Main Building B1F = Chef's Selection/Gift Delivery Counter, Isetan Mitsukoshi Online Store
*As quantities are limited, we apologize if the product is out of stock.

Proceeds from the sale of our food shopping bags are donated to environmental conservation efforts.

Food Shopping Bags (Large: W320mm x H340mm (excluding handle) x D180mm, Small: W250mm x H260mm (excluding handle) x D140mm) [Large] ¥50 (tax included) [Small] ¥30 (tax included)
*Available year-round
These paper bags, which replace plastic bags on the food floor, are not only convenient and stylish, but also environmentally friendly.

"These bags also have a chic design that goes with any fashion, so anyone can carry one. Another major feature of these new paper bags is that 20 yen worth of sales from the 50 yen paper bag (large), and 10 yen worth from the 30 yen paper bag (small), will be donated to WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) Japan and used for environmental conservation activities. The paper used is FSC certified (a product made from properly managed forests)," says Tsukada.

Of course, the strength and durability are also improved compared to previous paper bags. They are 1.2 times thicker than conventional paper bags and have a water-repellent coating on the outside, so they are guaranteed to be easy to use.

※Available at: Isetan Shinjuku Main Building B1F = Chef's Selection/Gift Delivery Counter




"I want it to become commonplace to use your own bags when shopping, especially for the sake of the environment. Having a stylish bag makes shopping even more enjoyable," says Tsukada. Shopping smartly with your favorite, long-lasting bag in hand is a sophisticated, adult style that is sure to impress. Be sure to check it out in store.