Sainsbury’s is rolling zip-lock bags out to its cherry category.
Following the success of the packaging in grapes, the retailer is replacing the old draw-string method on cherries with zip-locks.
Theresa Huxley, product technologist, said: “Our decision has been driven by positive feedback on the zip-lock bags used to package our loose seedless grapes from growers, consumers and store colleagues alike and it is a very encouraging sign to see that a number of UK retailers are now following Sainsbury's lead.”
She said feedback from grape producers has been very positive since the zip-lock bags have proven to be a more efficient packing solution.
“Customers have commented that the displays look neater and more hygienic since product is protected from customer handling and they like the fact that the bag is better quality and re-sealable.”
She said the packaging avoids fruit spill and helps keep the fixture tidier and decrease any wastage.
“Our zip-lock bags have also evolved,” she added. “In future each loose grape product will have its own distinct colour bag and a pre-printed PLU number. This is to help consumers differentiate between the products and also to help our colleagues in store to identify the product at the checkout.”
Sainsbury’s will also be encouraging consumers to recycle the plastic packaging, with the bags all carrying the recycling logo and a website address www.recyclenow.com.
