Commissary goes green

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Veronica McMahon
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Commissary customers worldwide have purchased more than 1 million reusable bags since its arrival to commissaries in October. Locally, Tyndall Air Force Base Commissary customers have purchased approximately 10,000 reusable shopping bags from the commissary and are still purchasing them regularly.

The machine washable, reusable and recyclable bags can hold up to 30 pounds of groceries, according to a Defense Commissary Agency news release. The bags are made from sturdy mesh and are sold for 70 cents a piece.

"We sold about 500 a week when they first came out months ago," said Michael Yaksich, commissary director. "We sell about 170 a week now. People are still buying them and coming in the store with the green bags."

Mr. Yaksich also said the commissary has seen a drop in supply expenses due to the demand drop for paper and plastic bags.

"I have had only good feedback about them," said Mr. Yaksich. "People said they really like them and that they are a good, sturdy, inexpensive bag."

Tyndall AFB spouse, Jessica Leonard, said she has been using the bags since their arrival months ago and hasn't had to replace any yet.

"I use them because they are good for the environment and make for less garbage in the pantry," said Mrs. Leonard. "I try to use them every time I go shopping."

Mrs. Leonard is just one of the commissary shoppers who use the bags on a regular occasion. Mr. Yaksich said he sees shoppers using the bags daily, and they have been a bigger hit than expected.

"The reception the bags have received since being introduced at the Tyndall commissary confirms many of our patrons are environmentally conscious and are supporting the "go green" initiatives," said the store director. "Especially since nearly 10,000 have been sold."

Introducing the green bags to commissaries was a Defense Commissary Agency "go green" initiative; as long as they're in demand the commissary will continue to carry them, said Mr. Yaksich.

The bag racks are located next to the entrance/exit doors and can be purchased while checking out.

For more information about the bags, DeCA or the commissary's "go green" initiatives, visit www.commissaries.com.