Toronto's plastic bag tax came into effect June 1st. Since its institution, I have seen a lot more people carrying around their eco-friendly bags while shopping, whether it is for groceries or clothes.

From a marketing perspective, companies that have been giving these bags out for free months prior are now getting the extra marketing boost - Lululemon is the popular one I see a lot. Those that have been selling them for a decent price are also getting the exposure - like PC and Whole Foods.

One odd customer service blip I have seen since this tax came into effect is cashiers unwillingness to put my purchases in my bag. This happened several times at stores in my neighbourhood. In fact, I have tried this with baby in tow, clearly a difficult task for me to do. Most times, I will tell the cashier that I have a bag and would appreciate it if they put my purchases in the bag. However, should I forget to say this in the frenzie of calming my baby, getting my wallet and signing my credit card statement...my purchase typically will sit on the counter beside my bag as the cashier attends to the next customer.

I don't get this? A small customer service flaw that ruins an otherwise good shopping experience.