Abstract: A holding device for thermoplastic bags utilizes bags having side panels and a reclosable seal at one end thereof, the reclosable seal comprising a pair of opposed interlocking closure strips and a slider for opening and closing the closure strips. The holding device comprises a support surface and a pair of elongate holding members each having a proximal portion adjacent the support surface and a distal portion wherein the holding members define a channel therebetween. The channel has a first section for receiving and enclosing a portion of the slider and a second section for receiving only the closure strips but not the slider. The channel further has a slot formed by the distal portions of the holding members wherein the slot has a width sufficient to allow the side panels of the thermoplastic bag to enter the slot but prevent passage of the closure strips through the slot.