<p>An apparatus and method for automatically handling vest-type bags in the context of an automated packing process for packing items such as groceries are described. The apparatus includes at least two fingers that extend parallel to one another, and are arranged to move apart to increase the spacing between the fingers along a bag- opening direction. The fingers are inserted between the strips of the handle, and then moved apart in the bag-opening direction to part the strips of the handle in the bag-opening direction. The invention also relates to a packing process involving automated bag handling operations.</p>
