Woolworths Switches Iconic Black Shopping Bag to New Design Following Cat Matlala’s Cash Revelations
South African retail giant Woolworths has introduced a fresh look for its reusable shopping bags, shifting from the well-known black design to a translucent grey or milky-white version, just days after businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s testimony linked the bags to alleged bribery. 
The change has sparked a wave of humorous reactions online, with many shoppers jokingly blaming Matlala for “ruining” the sturdy, discreet carrier that had become a staple in households. While the company has not officially tied the redesign to the scandal, the timing has fueled speculation and memes across social media.
This update comes amid broader discussions on brand reputation and consumer trust in South Africa, where everyday items can unexpectedly become part of national controversies. As Woolworths aims to maintain its premium image, the bag switch highlights how public revelations can influence corporate decisions, even indirectly.
The Bag Redesign: From Black to Translucent Grey
Woolworths quietly rolled out the new bag style, described as a “milky-white” or “translucent grey” alternative to the classic black version. Photos and videos shared by customers show the updated design, which some say looks more modern but less “secret-keeping” than its predecessor. The black bag, known for its durability and ability to hold heavy loads discreetly, had earned a reputation as a go-to for everything from groceries to, apparently, large sums of cash.
Social media users quickly connected the dots to Matlala’s recent admissions, with posts like “They don’t play about their brand: Woolworths dropped a new bag, and Mzansi immediately blamed Cat Matlala.” The redesign appears to be part of ongoing efforts to refresh the brand, but the proximity to the scandal has turned it into a talking point.
Background on Cat Matlala’s Revelations
The trigger for the buzz stems from Matlala’s testimony before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, where he detailed using Woolworths bags to transport R300,000 in cash as part of alleged bribes to former Police Minister Bheki Cele. Matlala, implicated in broader corruption probes including the Madlanga Commission, claimed the bags were ideal for discreetly carrying large amounts without drawing attention.
His comments went viral, leading to hilarious online reactions and memes portraying the Woolworths bag as an unwitting accomplice in shady deals. One popular quip noted how the bag “transcended its humble grocery origins” to become part of discussions on fashion, corruption, and politics. Matlala’s revelations, part of wider allegations involving police and criminal networks, painted the everyday item in a new, unintended light.
Woolworths responded indirectly by clarifying that their bags are meant for shopping, not illicit activities, but the damage to the black design’s “mystique” seemed done.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Mzansi did not hold back, with users flooding platforms with jokes about the “retirement” of the black bag. Comments like “The same black-and-white bag we use for croissants and dishwashing liquid was apparently strong enough to carry R300k” captured the humour. Others quipped that Woolworths acted fast to protect their brand, saying “They don’t play about their brand.”
The scandal even inspired trends like the “Woolies Bag Challenge,” where people shared creative uses for the bag, turning a negative spotlight into light-hearted fun. However, some voiced concerns over how such associations could tarnish a beloved South African brand known for quality and ethics.
Woolworths’ Perspective and Possible Reasons for the Change
While Woolworths has not explicitly linked the redesign to Matlala’s comments, the timing—mere days after his testimony—has led many to assume a connection. The company may have aimed to distance itself from any unintended connotations, opting for a more transparent look to symbolise clarity and openness.
In the past, Woolworths has refreshed its branding for sustainability reasons, like using recycled materials, but this shift feels reactive to the public narrative. Shoppers can still find the old black bags in some stores, but the new version is being phased in nationwide.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 121 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Matlala Claims Demanded R1m in Cash Woolies Back During Shocking Testimony🔴
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info: info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube