By Erick NovaBags, Paper Bags, Retail
The 5 Best Shopping Bags for Retail Businesses in 2025
Choosing the right shopping bag is more than just a practical decision, it’s a branding opportunity. For retailers, bags are a small but powerful detail that can impact how customers remember your business. We’ve reviewed dozens of options and narrowed it down to our top 5 favorite paper shopping bags for retail businesses this year.
To even be considered for this list, each bag had to meet our high standards for quality, style, functionality, and value. All five are excellent—but here’s how they rank.
5. Bright Color Tinted Paper Shopping Bags
Why it made the list: These bags bring color and personality to your packaging. Perfect for brands that want to turn heads or add a playful element to their customer experience.
Why it’s ranked #5: While they’re fun and functional, they aren’t quite as structured or premium-feeling as the other bags on the list. That said, for lightweight items or promotional use, they’re an excellent, budget-friendly option.
- Vibrant color options with matching handles
- Great for events, cosmetics, merch, and light retail
- Adds bold flair to your packaging program
4. Midtown Turn Top Paper Shopping Bags
Why it made the list: These bags are a fantastic middle ground between high-end eurototes and standard kraft bags. The matte finish, smooth turn-top edge, and color-tinted interiors give them a premium feel at a more accessible price.
Why it’s ranked #4: They deliver excellent value and are more elevated than your typical kraft bag, but don’t quite reach the luxury tier of eurototes. Still, if you’re looking for packaging that makes your brand look sharp without overspending, Midtown bags are a smart pick.
- Matte finish and smooth top edge
- Reinforced bottom insert for support
- Ideal for boutiques, salons, and gift shops
3. Matte Gaia Eurotote Bags with Paper Rope Handles
Why it made the list: These bags are clean, modern, and fully recyclable. The paper rope handles are a stylish, eco-friendly alternative to plastic blends, and the minimalist design works for a wide variety of retail settings.
Why it’s ranked #3: The Gaia bag stands out for its sleek look and sustainability, but has fewer color options and a more specific aesthetic appeal. It’s a favorite among eco-conscious and design-forward brands.
- Recyclable with braided paper handles
- Minimalist matte finish
- Great for upscale, environmentally focused businesses
2. Enviro Eurototes
Why it made the list: These eurototes check all the boxes: premium look, strong construction, and outstanding eco-friendly credentials. With 100% recycled paper and soy-based inks, they’re both beautiful and responsible.
Why it’s ranked #2: Enviro Eurototes are one of the most luxurious eco-friendly options available. They’re slightly pricier, but for businesses that want to pair upscale aesthetics with sustainability, they’re worth every penny.
- Premium 175 GSM weight
- Color-matched cotton handles
- Best for gift shops, boutiques, and retail events
1. EcoPlus™ Kraft Paper Shopping Bags
Why it made the list: These bags are a true workhorse. With heavyweight paper, reinforced handles, and classic styling, they’re a favorite for a reason. They’re simple, sustainable, and built to handle everyday retail use.
Why it’s ranked #1: EcoPlus™ bags are consistently our most popular paper shopping bags (and for good reason). They’re affordable, reliable, and available in neutral colors that work for virtually any brand. Perfect for high-volume use without sacrificing quality.
- Made with 80 lb. paper for added strength
- 100% recyclable in Natural Kraft and White Kraft
- Best all-around choice for everyday retail needs
Every bag on this list brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re prioritizing color, structure, sustainability, or all of the above, there’s a perfect fit for your brand’s needs.
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