Woolworths reintroduces its popular reusable shopping bag in a compact mini size, priced at just $15, following the rapid sell-out of the original version. The retailer partners with designer Anya Hindmarch, creator of the iconic Universal Bag, to offer the eco-friendly tote at over 400 stores across Australia.
Designer Collaboration Drives Demand
Last year’s full-sized $20 green tote, marking Hindmarch’s debut Australian project, vanished from shelves in record time amid shopper excitement. Coles saw similar frenzy with its version months later. Now, the mini bag launches in two color options, perfect for everyday use.
“It’s a great everyday size; I find mine useful for office lunches on the go,” Anya Hindmarch stated. “Huge demand existed for a smaller version since the initial launch, so partnering with Woolworths to introduce it nationwide in main and metro stores delights me.”
Customer Favorites and Stock Assurance
Woolworths credits the collaboration’s success to promoting sustainable choices. “Customers loved last year’s bag, and we still see them in our aisles daily,” said Rhonda Ma, Category Manager at Woolworths. “This mini version suits quick shops, chic lunch totes, or carrying tech. They arrive in stores this week—shop early to avoid missing out, based on past demand.”
Hindmarch assures ample supply this time. “Demand at launch was incredible. This product fulfills a need at an accessible price, ensuring everyone who wants one can buy it,” she explained. “Plenty of stock meets demand.”
Addressing concerns over choosing an international designer, Hindmarch noted, “Successful sustainable projects prove commercially viable. Costs like research, development, and production factor in. A desirable, sustainable, and commercial solution delivers long-term impact.”
Affordable Alternative to Luxury
Standard shoulder bags from the British label reach up to £1695 (about $A3400), positioning the $15 Woolworths edition as a bargain. Social media buzzes with anticipation: shoppers praise the original’s durability for weekly use, call the mini “cool,” and urge others to “run, not walk” to stores.
Global Sustainability Impact
The Universal Bag initiative collaborates with major retailers worldwide for durable, 100% recycled and recyclable totes with a 10-year guarantee, tailored to each brand. Available at UK chains like Asda, Co-op, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Selfridges Food Hall, and Whole Foods, plus stores in Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, more partners join this year.
“The Woolworths Mini marks our 28th global edition,” Hindmarch said. “The project has saved over 430 tonnes of virgin plastic from landfills so far—equivalent to 260 standard cars—driving habitual change against single-use plastics.”
