Plastic bags are making a return at Don Don Donki. The Japanese discount chain had stopped selling them in Singapore last October as part of its sustainability initiatives. However, after seven months, the store has reversed this decision. On May 19, Don Don Donki announced on Facebook: “You asked, we listened. Plastic bags are back.” From that date, biodegradable plastic bags will be available for purchase at 5 cents each. The company said this change was made to better support customers' needs.

Unlike typical plastic bags, these new bags are eco-friendly and designed to decompose naturally over time, helping to reduce long-term environmental harm. Previously, Don Don Donki charged 10 cents per plastic bag starting in November 2021, in line with the National Environment Agency’s Say YES to Waste Less campaign. This charge was lowered to 5 cents per bag in July 2023.

Despite the reversal, Don Don Donki stressed that sustainability remains a priority and encouraged shoppers to bring their own reusable bags whenever possible. The announcement sparked mixed reactions online. Some netizens praised the brand’s “good intentions,” appreciating the effort to balance customer convenience with environmental concerns. Others questioned whether reintroducing plastic bags, even biodegradable ones, aligns with genuine sustainability goals or if it might undermine previous progress. Overall, while the return of plastic bags aims to meet customer demands, it also raises important discussions about balancing convenience and environmental responsibility in retail practices.