Bradford-based Morrisons is to become the first supermarket to stop selling plastic carrier bags in all of its stores.
The supermarket chain will switch from offering plastic "bags for life" to a paper alternative – and will become the first UK supermarket to stop using plastic carrier bags completely in the process.
Morrisons said the removal of the plastic bags for life would begin in Scotland this month, followed by England and Wales over the course of the next 12 months, following a successful trial in eight of its 500 stores last year.
Morrisons' chief executive, David Potts, said: "We have been listening hard to our customers over the past year and we know that they are passionate about doing their bit to keep plastics out of the environment.
Morrisons
"Removing all of the plastic bags from our supermarkets is a significant milestone in our sustainability programme."
Almost 100 million plastic bags will be removed in total, saving 3,200 tonnes of plastic a year, according to Morrisons.
Morrisons says the reusable paper bags will cost 30p each and are recyclable, water and tear resistant, while being able to hold up to 16kg - or 13 bottles of wine, the same as a plastic bag for life.
Paper bags will be sold alongside string, jute, cotton and reusable woven bags, which are priced between 75p and £2.50.
Morrisons has also removed all plastic bags from its fruit and vegetable areas in store, offering brown paper bag alternatives instead.
Since 2017 Morrisons has removed and made recyclable over 10,000 tonnes of plastic and is on track to hit its 50% plastic reduction target by 2025.
Bradford
Pioneering Bradford artist David Hockney has passed away aged 88
David Hockney, one of Britain's most influential and recognisable artists, has sadly died.
Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney built a career spanning more than six decades and became one of the most influential figures in contemporary art.
He was best known for his vibrant paintings, from the iconic swimming pools of Los Angeles to the sweeping landscapes of Yorkshire and Normandy.
And of course you can't forget the adorable paintings of his sausage dogs Stanley and Boodgie.
This morning on Friday 12 June, it was sadly announced that David Hockney had passed away - just one month prior of his 89th birthday.
Admired by critics and the public alike, Hockney's work was exhibited around the world and attracted record-breaking prices, cementing his place as one of the defining artists of the modern era.
Most recently, his incredibly immersive exhibition 'Bigger & Closer (not smaller & further away)' was a hit across the country, proving his work still resonated with the people of today.
His work at Salts Mill has remained in exhibit for years, including his special digital drawings that he did on his iPad.
His death marks the end of a truly extraordinary career, but his influence on British culture and contemporary art will endure for years to come.
A true West Yorkshire icon that will be missed by many from across the globe. RIP David.
Featured image - Publicity photo via Justin Sutcliffe (supplied)
Bradford
The UK’s biggest Asian shopping mall is opening in Bradford this weekend
Clementine Hall
After years in the making, Signature Mall Bradford will be opening in the heart of the city.
Signature Mall is one of the UK’s most anticipated Asian retail and lifestyle destinations that will officially be opening its doors this Saturday 16 May.
This is a major milestone for the city, bringing together a mix of premium South Asian fashion, jewellery, beauty, dining, and lifestyle brands all under one roof.
It's a huge step for the city as the new opening is expected to attract thousands of visitors from all over the country.
Images: Supplied
The space has been designed to deliver a modern and seamless shopping experience, featuring a total of 45 vendors all in one mall.
You'll be able to find everything from premium jewellery and bridal retailers to family-friendly leisure facilities and beauty brands.
There will also be a large food and drink offering.
The opening of Signature Mall is also expected to generate new employment opportunities and provide a platform for both established and emerging businesses within the South Asian retail sector.
Signature Mall representatives have said: “Signature Mall is more than just a shopping destination, it is a celebration of culture, community, and entrepreneurship. We are proud to bring this exciting new development to Bradford and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the region and beyond.”
The Signature Mall will be located on Preston Street in Bradford and you can find more about it here via their website.
The Hoot -
9th April 2021 
