Twisted vs Flat Handle Paper Bags

Discover why RePapaPac® is the ultimate upgrade from flat and twisted handle paper bags—offering unmatched strength, reusability, and sustainability for modern retail.


In the world of retail packaging, choosing the right paper bag isn’t just about looks—it’s about performance, cost, and sustainability. And while many retailers have upgraded from flat handle bags to twisted handle styles, there’s now a next-generation option that redefines what’s possible with paper: RePapaPac®.

Let’s break down how each type compares—and why RePapaPac® is emerging as the top-tier solution for forward-thinking brands.


Flat Handle Bags: Basic but Limited

Flat handle paper bags are widely used in grocery and takeout settings due to their affordability and familiarity. But they come with critical downsides:

  • Surface-glued handles that often detach under moderate weight

  • Thin, low-grade paper vulnerable to tearing or collapsing

  • Poor load distribution, leading to early failure

  • Frequent need for double bagging, especially with glass jars, cans, or heavy items

👉 They’re cheap up front—but costly in usage, waste, and customer satisfaction.


Twisted Handle Bags: A Smarter Standard

Twisted handle bags are a major upgrade for most retailers:

  • Rope-like handles twisted from multiple layers of kraft paper

  • Internal patch reinforcement for better stress distribution

  • Stronger grip and better weight tolerance

  • Improved brand perception with a more premium feel

They can often carry 5–10 kg without the need for double bagging, making them a much more efficient and sustainable solution.

But even twisted handle bags have their limits—especially under heavy, sharp-edged, or wet loads.


RePapaPac®: The Strongest Paper Bag on the Market

RePapaPac® isn’t just a bag with better handles—it’s a complete reengineering of what a paper bag can be.

It’s the ultimate solution for brands that want high strength, sustainability, and reusability without compromise.

Lab-Tested Performance:

  • 40 kg load-tested by SGS

  • 10,000+ lift cycles in EN13590 testing

  • Reusable up to 50 times

  • High tear and puncture resistance

📦 Built Differently:

  • Made from Billerud FibreForm® paper, a long-fibre, high-GSM paper engineered for strength

  • Manufactured at EP Group facilities with full quality control and customization options

  • Available in plain or full-color photo-realistic print designs


RePapaPac®: Built to Outlast & Outperform

Feature

Flat Handle Bag

Twisted Handle Bag

RePapaPac®

Load Capacity

Low (~2–5 kg)

Moderate (~5–10 kg)

High (40+ kg tested)

Reusability

Single-use

2–5 reuses

50+ reuses

Handle Construction

Flat, surface-glued

Twisted, internally patched

No handles – fully reinforced body

Aesthetic Appeal

Basic/utility

Premium retail feel

Best-in-class print quality

Environmental Impact

High waste

Reduced waste

Lowest waste, max reusability

 

For Brands That Want More

If you’re a grocery chain, fashion retailer, or food delivery service looking to:

  • Reduce bag failure and double bagging

  • Increase sustainability metrics

  • Deliver a better customer experience

Then RePapaPac® is your next evolution.


Ready to Upgrade?

EP Group supplies RePapaPac® to some of the world’s most trusted retailers. If you’re ready to trial the strongest, most sustainable paper bag available—we’re ready to help.

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