NEW HANDLE CUTS RONETCO BAGGING COSTS

LINDA PURPURA

LEDGEWOOD, N.J. -- A plastic handle that makes plastic bags easier to carry is enabling RoNetco Supermarkets here, operator of six ShopRite Supermarkets, to save an average of $20,000 per store annually by eliminating the use of additional plastic and paper bags.

Using a plastic handle that locks together the loop handles of plastic grocery bags makes carrying the bag easier for shoppers, prevents groceries from falling out of the bag, and increases the amount of items that fit into the bag, according to David Ensel, director of customer service for RoNetco.

In addition, fewer bags are being used to reinforce the strength of plastic bags. As a result, the retailer is reducing its purchases of plastic and paper bags.

"We use less than 10,000 paper bags in a week in one store, compared to 30,000 bags a week prior to using the handle," said Ensel.

"The handles cost approximately half a cent each," he added, noting an average supermarket typically uses two cases a week. Approximately 6,000 handles are in a case. The handle, provided by Handle Helper, Scottsdale, Ariz., is available at all six RoNetco supermarkets.