With all the bigger stores charging for carrier bags, small retailers can boost trade by not charging for them.

That’s the message from one Sheffield-based retailer who said sales have risen because they’re going against the grain when it comes to carrier bag charges.

Singh’s Premier, which has three stores in and around the city, said trade had risen in its locations after spreading the word about free carrier bags via social media.

Vrinder Singh said: “I know some retailers have decided it’s an opportunity to start charging, but ours are free. For us, it’s an opportunity not to charge. It’s working really well. It’s on Instagram, Twitter and other social media and we’ve seen an uplift.

“Some customers would rather not pay and we think they are coming into our shop to get a free bag with their shopping. It’s really helping us engage with our customers.”