Paper bag types explained: which format fits your business?
Every paper bag is one of a handful of constructions, and choosing the right one comes down to three questions: does it need to stand open, does it need handles, and how much weight does it carry? Zubairi Packaging manufactures six paper bag types in the UAE: grocery (SOS), square bottom, flat handle, twisted handle, V-bottom, and V-bottom window. This guide explains what each format does and who it serves.
SOS grocery bags - built for speed
SOS stands for self-opening square: a flat-bottom, handle-free bag that stands open on its base. Supermarkets and delivery kitchens choose SOS bags because the bag fills in seconds without being held, and handle-free construction keeps the unit cost down at volume. If your packing line measures output per minute, this is your format.
Square bottom bags - the display format
A square bottom bag stands upright like an SOS bag but is built heavier — Zubairi runs them at 90–120 gsm — so it holds shape on a counter or shelf. Retailers use square bottom bags where the bag itself displays the product.
Flat handle and twisted handle - when the customer carries your brand
Handle bags exist for one reason: the bag leaves the shop in a customer's hand. Flat (glued paper) handles are the utility choice for grocery and takeaway volume. Twisted (rolled paper) handles are the classic retail carrier — the format fashion and brand retailers print. Zubairi prints both in up to 6 colours flexographically; plain stock ships unprinted.
V-bottom bags - light, fast, economic
Handle V-bottom bags are the lightest format in our range at 40–90 gsm — the counter-service bag for bakeries, pharmacies and small retail. The V-bottom window variant adds a clear panel so the product shows at the counter.
How to decide in one minute
✅ Stands open for fast packing → SOS or square bottom.
✅ Customer carries it visibly → flat or twisted handle.
✅ Light item, high volume, low cost → V bottom.
✅ Product should be seen → Window.
Still unsure?
Send us what you pack and how it reaches the customer; we manufacture all six formats in the UAE and will recommend one against your spec.
We also offer private-label printing on every format.
FAQ:
What is the strongest paper bag format? Strength follows paper weight more than construction; our heaviest stock runs are square-bottom and handle bags at 90–120 gsm.
Can all formats be printed? Yes, up to 6-color flexographic printing on every format or plain kraft from stock.
Do you make custom sizes? Yes. Size, kraft color (brown or white), and print are specified per order and confirmed with your quote.