Mickey Mouse was featured on the first Disney Store shopping bags when the chain opened in 1987.
The first Disney Store opened in Glendale, California, in 1987. Mickey was a natural emblem for the new retail concept because he was Disney’s most recognisable character and represented the company across animation, theme parks, and licensed merchandise.
Disney Stores were designed as dedicated retail environments rather than ordinary department-store counters. They sold toys, clothing, home goods, videos, books, and other products, while the visual design of the stores and their bags reinforced Disney’s brand identity.
Later shopping bags featured many characters and franchises, including princesses, Pixar figures, Marvel heroes, and Star Wars characters. Those later designs should not be confused with the Mickey-focused branding associated with the chain’s original launch period.