Printed Plastic Bags

Minimum order quantities depend on the bag style and number of print colours. Patch handle and punched-out handle bags start from 500 bags, and flexiloop and drawstring bags start from 1,000 bags, for printing in one to three colours. Designs with four or more colours start from 5,000 bags, and fully bespoke orders start from 10,000 bags.

On average, our printed plastic bags take around 3 weeks to manufacture, print and deliver, with free delivery included across the UK. However, depending on quantities and requirements, we can ensure a quicker turnaround. If you’re working towards a specific deadline, speak to our team before placing your order so we can confirm the lead time and arrange the quickest suitable turnaround.

Yes, samples can be arranged so you can assess the bag, material, size and finish before committing to a full order. Availability may vary depending on the bag type, specification and the type of print requested. As far as possible, we aim to provide samples that closely reflect the final bag you are looking to create.

As part of our process, you will receive an artwork proof before production begins. We’ll work with you on any revisions and help tailor your design to the available print options. Production will only begin once you’re happy with the artwork and have approved it.

Polythene bags are our most affordable bag to produce. However, the unit cost per bag will change depending on a number of factors such as the bag style, order quantity, size and print requirements. Bulk pricing scales with order quantity - the more bags ordered, the more cost savings we can pass on. Larger orders generally reduce the cost per bag, while bespoke sizes, greater print coverage and additional specifications can increase the overall price. Contact our team for a quote tailored to your requirements.

Plastic carrier bags are lightweight, compact and resistant to moisture. The main benefit that plastic bags have over paper is that they are typically more cost effective than paper bags. Whilst being easier to store, they are also made from stronger materials. This means that they are more durable, reusable and long-lasting. When it comes to printing, there is significantly more flexibility. The main drawback when compared to paper bags is that they are less sustainable and offer a less polished appearance. Paper bags may therefore be more suitable for retailers looking for a polished, high-end presentation or where sustainability is a key part of the brand.

For a full comparison of the two materials, read our guide to paper bags vs plastic bags. 

Yes, our printed plastic bags can be suitable for carrying heavier items, with a range of sizes and specifications available to suit different loads. The gauge of the plastic determines its thickness and plays a major role in the overall strength and durability of the bag. See our plastic bag size guide for more information.

The best plastic carrier bag will depend on your products. This affects how strong the bag needs to be and what type of handle is required. Patch handle, punched-out handle, flexiloop and drawstring bags each have different strengths and are suited to different applications. For a more detailed comparison of your available options, see our Plastic Carrier Bag Guide.

Printed plastic bags are not automatically eco-friendly, but their environmental impact can be reduced through responsible material use, repeated reuse and correct recycling.

Yes, most conventional polythene carrier bags can be recycled. Currently, they are not always accepted through household recycling collections, although many supermarkets provide specific flexible-plastic recycling points. From 31 March 2027, local authorities in England will be required to collect recyclable plastic film and plastic bags from households as part of the government’s 'Simpler Recycling' scheme.

No, conventional polythene carrier bags are not biodegradable. Rather than breaking down naturally, they should be reused for as long as possible and then recycled through an appropriate plastic recycling route. This highlights the importance of keeping these products within the cycle of use by making them strong and durable, reducing the need for single-use plastics where possible.

Yes, printed plastic bags can be reused multiple times. They remain in good condition and are suitable for the weight of the items being carried. Choosing the right size, gauge and handle style can improve the durability of the bag and make it more suitable for repeated use. Reusing a carrier bag also helps extend its useful life before it is eventually recycled or disposed of.

Our plastic bags come in a range of sizes, and our plastic bag size guide walks you through all of your options here. For orders over 10,000 bags, we can also provide bags in any size you want.

Yes, plastic carrier bags can be printed on one or both sides, and each side can feature a different design, message or piece of branding. Printing on both sides gives you more space to promote your brand, display additional information or use each side for a different purpose. For example, one side could feature your logo and main branding, while the reverse includes a website or promotional message.

Yes, and we’ve worked with a number of brands to produce polythene bags for food packaging. If the bag will come into direct contact with food, it needs to be manufactured from a suitable food-contact material and produced to the appropriate specification. This should be confirmed when placing your order (these bags can still be custom printed with your logo).

Our custom printed plastic bags can be produced with anything from a simple single colour design to detailed multicolour branding. This makes them suitable for everything from straightforward plastic bags with a logo to more complex branded designs. Single colour printing is a cost-effective option for logos, text and simple artwork, while multi-colour printing allows several brand colours to be used within the same design. For more detailed artwork, photographs or designs with a wide range of colours, CMYK printing can be used.

We can produce plastic bags with your logo. You can also add your branding or custom artwork printed onto the bag. Depending on the design, this can range from a simple single colour logo to more detailed multicolour branding. Custom printed plastic bags are a practical way to turn everyday carrier bags into a visible part of your brand.