Bags of style from I Love Manx

Shoppers are proclaiming ‘I Love Manx’ by snapping up environmentally friendly bags designed by the campaign.

The jute bags with a bright ‘Thanks for Choosing Manx’ logo, super thick handles and lots of room inside were created for the agricultural shows but are now being sent around the world.

A spokesman for I Love Manx said: “One shopper took her bag into the bank and a cashier asked if they could buy it from her. It happened again to the same lady the following day in the supermarket.”

The bags are available from the Isle of Man Farmers’ Markets, the Manx National Farmers’ Union, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the Department of Tourism’s Welcome Centre.

More and more stores on the Isle of Man are following the Repubic of Irelands lead.  On March 4, 2002 the Republic of Ireland introduced a €0.15 levy on every plastic shopping bag. This led to a 90% reduction in use of plastic bags and increased use of reusable bags. Visitors to some regions of France are often caught by surprise on their first shopping trip to a supermarket when they realise no free carrier bags are provided at the checkout. 


At £3 Thanks for Choosing Manx bags are fantastic value for money and totally sustainable. We want to encourage consumers to think about where their food comes from and learn to feel good about their shop. We’re thrilled by the response we have had so far.

Minister for Agriculture Mr Phil Gawne said: “It is great to see the growing demand from Manx consumers who want to look after the environment, the local farmers and most importantly are enjoying eating fresh, high quality Manx food. These bags allow them to demonstrate their support with pride in a very practical way and I would like to thank them all for their help and commitment.”

President of the Manx National Farmers’ Union, Howard Quayle added: “By using one of these you are showing your fellow shoppers that you care about buying local and supporting the Manx economy. On behalf of the farming community I’d personally like to thank those who use them.”