Retailers go green, bag makers red

Retailers in China are now fighting a battle for the "green" high ground in a bid to turn fashion-conscious customers into eco-aware shoppers, as plastic bags face the ban.

Muji, the Japanese lifestyle store is offering simple but stylish linen and cotton bags in its newly launched outlet in western Beijing.

While Levi's, the US clothing maker is printing its insignia, the back-pocket seagull stitch, on its non-woven shopping bags - which customers get free when purchasing jeans at its stores.

Shuang'an Department Store, located near Beijing's West Third Ring Road, held a recycle bag design competition last month and received around 400 applications, indicating the interest in more eco fashion.

The "green" shopping bag campaign seems to be a win-win for all involved. Companies can adopt it as a brand-building tool. Consumers see it as an iconic statement against throwaway plastic bags, which are given away in billions every year.