Our mission is to inspire the world to reuse
Choosing to reuse is a simple act of generosity that shows love for people and the planet. Over the past thirty years, our community has eliminated 2+ million single-use plastic bags. Learn more about how we got here.
Our Journey
Humble Beginnings
1990
In 1990, our founder Victor Levy opened a manufacturing centre in Cape Town, South Africa producing school backpacks and sports bags for the local communities.
Corporate Expansion
1994
In 1994, during South Africa’s transition to democracy, Bags Direct (formerly Travelex) was founded to supply bags for corporate and promotional markets, driven by a vision to create innovative products.
Going Retail
1998
In 1998, as Bags Direct's need to supply corporate markets were growing we were also approached to supply well-known supermarkets with general merchandise across North America. This was the start of our expansion of our portfolio.
Opening in Southern Africa
2002
In 2002, Bags Direct expanded its operations into Southern Africa in the countries of Botswana, Swaziland, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This strategic move enabled us to become level-2 accredited BBBEE with 51% black women ownership.
FIFA WORLD CUP
2010
In 2010, we were honored to be awarded the official FIFA World Cup license in South Africa. We proudly produced all the backpacks and drawstring bags for the event, contributing to this historic moment on a global stage.
RUGBY WORLD CUP
2011
In 2011, we were honoured to be awarded the official Rugby World Cup license in New Zealand. We produced promotional items for the event and produced the travel duffel bags for the Springbok team (in which they won).
Together, we are making changes and a positive impact on people and the planet.
Proud member of 1% for the Planet
We give back to NGO's developing clean water infrastructure, cleaning our oceans, protecting wildlife, and reforestation projects that help communities.
Issy Levy
Founder & CEO
As the founder of Bags Direct, I've spent over 35 years in this industry, building a company that’s passionate about providing customer-centric products and doing our part to protect the planet. When I started this journey, it was just a hopeful idea. Today, we are proud to be at the forefront of change and meeting the highest standards. We’ve earned certifications from trusted bodies like Walmart, as we continue to grow globally.
Meet the team
Charmaine
Finance & HR
Vidhantha
Global Operations Specialist
Kevin
Logistics & Freight Specialist
Andrea
Head of Product Development
Benjamin Green
Online Retail Specialist
Laroche Doherty
Content Specialist
Sukiyaki
Head of Reusable Bags Production
Caroline
Head of Duffels & Luggage Production
Charmaine
Finance & HR
Vidhantha
Global Operations Specialist
Kevin
Logistics & Freight Specialist
Andrea
Head of Product Development
Benjamin Green
Online Retail Specialist
Laroche Doherty
Content Specialist
Sukiyaki
Head of Reusable Bags Production
Caroline
Head of Duffels & Luggage Production
A Family Legacy
Bags Direct, is a family-owned business, that has led the retail, promotional, and corporate markets in Southern Africa for over 30 years. In 2024, we expanded globally by registering our company in Spain and the United States. We annually exhibit at international trade shows showcasing our reusable bags, backpacks, and travel luggage.
The Problem Retailers Can't Ignore
In 2021, the EU implemented a ban on single-use plastics, compelling retailers to act on it. As a retailer, you're challenged as consumers demand it. Competitors are already acting on it. And governments are enforcing it. These laws will become mandatory globally in time. We believe your packaging is part of your brand—something your customers can feel good about. When they leave with a reusable bag, they take a piece of your company’s values with them.
