What Target, CVS, and Kroger Are Doing Before California’s Plastic Bag Ban Hits

California to Ban Single-Use Plastic Bags in 2026

California will phase out single-use plastic bags at more than 1,000 checkout locations starting Jan. 1, 2026. Backed by major retail chains, the “Break Up With Single-Use Bags” campaign is preparing shoppers for the change.

Here’s how the state’s largest retailers are gearing up for the ban and what it will mean for everyday shoppers. Mark Vergari / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Target Prepares for Checkout Changes

Target stores in California will begin posting signs to inform customers about the upcoming ban and paper bag fees. The company is participating in the campaign’s statewide rollout, which includes in-store messaging, social media, and other media channels. Michele C. Haddon / Bucks County Courier Times / USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn

CVS Aligns Store Policies With New Law

CVS locations in California will phase out plastic bags ahead of the 2026 deadline. Vice president of sustainability and community impact Jenny McColloch said, “This latest initiative aims to collaboratively address waste in our neighborhoods, stores and everyday decisions, creating a positive impact for individuals and the planet.” Zach Roth/Peoria Journal Star / USA TODAY NETWORK

Kroger Adapts California Stores for Bag Ban

Kroger is taking part in the campaign and preparing its California stores for the switch to paper and reusable bags. Paper bags will cost $0.10 unless the customer is using SNAP benefits, in which case the fee is waived. MATT DAYHOFF/JOURNAL STAR / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Campaign Messaging and Scope

The “Break Up With Single-Use Bags” campaign will post signage in stores and run across TV and social media to raise awareness. Kate Daly, managing partner at Closed Loop Partners, said, “This campaign reflects a growing movement of retailers and communities working together, guided by data and a shared vision, to shift the retail experience toward one that eliminates waste altogether.” Noah Buscher / Unsplash

Evidence From Other States

States such as Colorado, New Jersey, and New York have already enacted similar bans, with data showing nearly 300 single-use bags eliminated per person annually. “The bottom line is that plastic bag bans work,” said Faran Savitz of the PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center. Teslariu Mihai / Unsplash