Brown paper bags with handles have become one of the most reliable, stylish and environmentally friendly packaging solutions for businesses across the UK. From retail stores and craft shops to bakeries, markets and gift boutiques, these bags offer the perfect balance of strength, sustainability and professional presentation. As the shift towards eco friendly packaging grows, more businesses are replacing plastic carriers with durable and attractive brown kraft bags.
In this in depth guide, we explore everything you need to know about brown paper bags with handles, how they support branding, their advantages over other packaging options and why small paper bags and custom printed paper bags are becoming top choices for retailers and event organisers.
Why Are Brown Paper Bags with Handles in High Demand Today
There has been a major movement towards sustainable, ethical and modern packaging. Customers no longer want single use plastic, and businesses want packaging that reflects their brand values. Brown paper bags with handles stand out because they are strong, reusable, eco friendly and visually appealing.
Here are the main reasons behind their growing popularity.
Eco friendly
Made from renewable materials and fully recyclable, brown kraft bags support responsible packaging.
Strong and reliable
Handle design adds extra support, making the bags ideal for carrying heavier items.
Versatile design
Used for clothing, gifts, cosmetics, food and craft products.
Affordable for all types of businesses
From large retailers to small independent shops, these bags fit all budgets.
Professional look
Their natural brown finish gives a rustic charm that customers appreciate.
What Makes Brown Paper Bags with Handles Different from Other Bags
While many types of packaging are available, brown paper bags with handles offer unique benefits that appeal to both businesses and customers.
Natural and rustic look
The brown colour of kraft paper gives a timeless and earthy appearance that works well for eco conscious brands.
Easy to customise
Brown kraft provides a smooth printing surface, making it ideal for custom printed paper bags.
Suitable for all industries
These bags fit perfectly in clothing stores, bakeries, craft fairs, bookshops and gift boutiques.
Comfortable to carry
The handles make them practical for everyday shopping, events and product packaging.
What Types of Handles Are Used on Brown Paper Bags
Handles play a major role in the functionality and appearance of the bag. Here are the most common options.
Twisted Paper Handles
Strong, stylish and comfortable. Perfect for fashion retail, gift shops and lifestyle brands.
Flat Handles
Light, cost effective and commonly used by takeaway shops, cafes and bakeries.
Rope Handles
Often used for luxury bags, though less common on natural brown paper bags.
Each handle type affects both the carrying comfort and the overall appearance of the packaging.
Why Small Paper Bags Are Becoming Popular in the UK
Small paper bags have become a must have for businesses that sell light, compact or delicate items. These bags might be small in size, but they offer big advantages.
Here is why small paper bags are favoured.
Perfect for jewellery, cosmetics and crafts
Ideal for boutiques selling smaller products.
A great alternative for gift wrapping
Small brown paper bags with handles look elegant for party favours and gifting.
Eco friendly option
Customers prefer recyclable packaging even for smaller items.
Easy to customise
They work well as custom printed paper bags for branding smaller items.
Cost effective for businesses
Small sizes are affordable and perfect for large quantity orders.
How Do Custom Printed Paper Bags Enhance Business Branding
Custom printed paper bags have become one of the most effective ways to promote a brand without extra advertising costs. When customers carry your bag, they promote your shop wherever they go.
Creates instant brand recognition
Your logo, colours and design help people remember your business easily.
Adds value to the customer experience
Printed bags look professional and give a premium feel to even simple products.
Ideal for events and corporate gifting
Businesses use custom printed paper bags for trade shows, conferences and promotional giveaways.
Encourages reusability
Customers often reuse printed brown paper bags with handles, giving your business more exposure.
Affordable marketing
A one time investment provides long term brand visibility.
What Sizes and Styles Are Available for Brown Paper Bags with Handles
One of the biggest advantages of brown paper bags with handles is the range of sizes and styles available.
Small Sizes
Perfect for jewellery, accessories, candles, handmade items or small gifts.
Medium Sizes
Ideal for clothing, craft items, books and beauty products.
Large Sizes
Used by fashion boutiques, gift stores, supermarkets and homeware shops.
Custom Shapes
Some businesses design unique shapes to stand out or hold special products.
No matter what you sell, there is a suitable size and style available.
Where Can Brown Paper Bags with Handles Be Used
These bags are versatile and suitable for almost every industry. Here are some popular uses across the UK.
Retail stores
Clothing shops, lifestyle stores, craft shops and boutique brands use these bags daily.
Food and bakery
Cafes, bakeries and takeaway shops use small paper bags and medium kraft bags for snacks and pastries.
Farmers markets
Perfect for natural and handmade products like soaps, candles and organic goods.
Gift shops
Great for wrapping gifts, especially when used as custom printed paper bags.
Corporate events
Used for branded giveaways, product launches, promotional material and welcome packs.
Online businesses
Suitable for packaging clothing, accessories and gifts for deliveries or in store collections.
Are Brown Paper Bags with Handles Eco Friendly
Yes, brown paper bags with handles are one of the most sustainable packaging choices. Made from recyclable kraft paper, they break down easily in the environment and pose no harm to wildlife or ecosystems. Many UK businesses choose these bags to support their eco goals and meet customer expectations for environmentally conscious packaging.
Choosing brown kraft bags helps reduce plastic waste and demonstrates your brand’s commitment to sustainability.
What to Consider Before Choosing Brown Paper Bags with Handles
Before purchasing, it is important to think about your branding and packaging needs.
What products will you pack
Heavier items need stronger handles and higher GSM kraft.
Do you require custom printing
Custom printed paper bags elevate branding and customer experience.
What sizes work best
Small paper bags for small items, medium or large for clothing and gifts.
How many bags do you need
Bulk orders usually offer better value and consistent quality.
What impression do you want to create
Natural kraft is perfect for eco brands, while custom prints add a professional touch.
Why Are Brown Paper Bags with Handles Perfect for Gifting
Gifting is more than the product itself. Presentation matters, and brown kraft bags offer the perfect look for thoughtful, elegant and minimal gift packaging. Whether used for party favours, wedding gifts, birthday packaging or seasonal gifting, these bags add charm and a natural feel to any occasion. Custom printed paper bags further enhance the experience by adding personal touches.
Final Thoughts
Brown paper bags with handles remain a reliable, eco friendly and stylish packaging solution for businesses of all sizes. Whether you run a boutique, café, craft shop or online store, these bags offer durability and a professional appearance that customers appreciate. From small paper bags for delicate items to custom printed paper bags for standout branding, kraft bags are versatile enough to suit every industry.
As sustainability becomes increasingly important in the UK, switching to brown paper bags with handles is not only a practical choice but also a smart branding decision. They help improve customer experience, support environmental goals and showcase your products beautifully.
