Media release
Gympie businesses are being urged to “bag” some information on their responsibilities under Queensland’s looming state-wide ban on light-weight plastic shopping bags, due to come into effect from July next year.
The NRA will be in Gympie on Thursday 2 November touring local shopping centres to provide advice for retailers preparing for the impending plastic bag ban.
NRA Manager of Industry Policy David Stout said that it is vital that all businesses are up to speed with their responsibilities now in order to be well-prepared for next year’s ban.
“The new laws apply to all retailers regardless of size or type – from supermarkets to fashion boutiques, from fast food outlets to petrol stations.
“All retail businesses currently using plastic bags face important business decisions over the next few months, Mr Stout said.
“For many businesses, giving a free plastic bag to every customer incurs substantial costs to their business and they will need to consider a range of alternatives out there which could either increase or reduce business costs.
“In addition, retailers who do not comply with the new laws from July 1 2018 are exposed to substantial fines and risk disrupting their business and upsetting customers.
Mr Stout said that the NRA has partnered with the Queensland Government to help retailers navigate the new laws, find alternative bag solutions, and minimise negative impacts on businesses.
“That is why we will be visiting locations throughout the region – to inform retailers on how the ban will affect them and what they can do to minimise any inconvenience to their business and customers.
“We’ll also be providing information on useful resources, training kits and signage to assist retailers in preparing their teams and customers for the ban,” Mr Stout said.
The NRA will be available at the below locations on Thursday 2 November:
- Farmer and Sun Café, Southland Town Centre 8am – 9am
- Goldfields Plaza 10am-11am
- Gympie Central 11.30am-12.30pm
For more information on the NRA’s tour locations and times, business owners should visit www.qldbagban.com.au, email qldbagban@nra.net.au, or call the NRA’s hotline on 1800 RETAIL or Project Coordinator, Ebony Johnson, on 0403 559 075.
The National Retail Association is Australia’s largest and most representative retail industry association. It has been serving businesses in the retail and fast food sectors for close to 100 years.
David Stout is available for interviews. Contact the NRA’s media unit on (07) 3240 0163.
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