Foodservice Disposable Market Outlook for 2024 to 2034

The foodservice disposable market has posted significant growth with its current value amounting to USD 72.3 billion in 2024 and is set to reach USD 123.2 billion by 2034. Demand drivers refer to the different aspects that all worked together to impress this growth.

The fast increase in food delivery services and takeaways has further boosted demand for disposable packaging materials, including containers, cups, and utensils. Further, with the increasing trend, the increased demand for disposable plates, cutlery, and packaging should be considered by consumers in the wake of on-the-go eating and pre-prepared food consumption.

Another driver for demand for single-use disposable products in foodservice establishments includes raising awareness of, more so, the aspect of hygiene and sanitation in the reflection of public health.

Further, the forecast CAGR of 5.80% through 2024 and 2034 sharply depicts the continued momentum and growth scopes of the foodservice disposable market, driven by evolving consumer preferences and life changes. In essence, all these point to an extremely opportunistic market with abundant room for growth and innovation in the foodservice industry.

Attributes Details
Foodservice Disposable Market Value for 2024 USD 72.3 billion
Foodservice Disposable Market Value for 2034 USD 123.2 billion
Foodservice Disposable Market Forecast CAGR for 2024 to 2034 5.80%

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Trend Analysis of the Sector

The Importance of Eco-friendly Food Service Disposables Is Gaining Momentum

The ecological consciousness of consumers triggers the food service disposable market to thrive and see sustainable alternatives like compostable cutlery and biodegradable packaging. Leading companies are going for these solutions to lessen the environmental footprint and cater to the changing consumer tastes.

Advancements in Sustainable Packaging Solutions

The foodservice disposable industry witnesses a development in materials with businesses developing bioplastics, plant-based fibers, and other eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastics. These functional materials are as efficient as the traditional ones but less damaging to the environment, which enhances their popularity among all the players.

Single-use Packaging Solutions to The Needs of Hectic and Busy Lifestyles

With the increasingly hectic way of life, a corresponding rise in the demand for quick foodservice throwaway products can be seen. One-time packaging alternatives such as ready-to-eat containers and portioned condiment packets are designed to provide consumers with convenience without jeopardizing the quality or freshness of the food.

Waste-Free Strategies Spur Innovation in the Progress of Food Service Waste

Sustainability is the main objective in this disposable foodservice market which incorporates zero-waste initiatives that reduce environmental impact to the minimum. Organizations provide substitutes for traditional disposables which are reusable or recyclable. This in turn promotes waste reduction and application of circular economy practices.

Tech Integration Reshapes Industry! Intelligent Packaging Solutions Revolutionize Fast Food Wastes

As technology is changing, the smart packaging concept is appearing in foodservice disposable market. The temperature sensitive labels and the RFID enabled containers are only a few examples from the wide range of innovations of these types of labels which offer real-time tracking, traceability, and enhanced functionality, completely changing the way disposable products are utilized and managed.

Segmentation in the Foodservice Disposable Industry

Segment Estimated Market Share in 2024
Cups 35%
HoReCa 65%

Disposable Dining! Cups Clinch Top Spot

The cup segment undisputedly becomes a champion and claims an amazing 35% market share in 2024. The cup dominance in the disposable foodservice market is mainly due to them being very convenient and flexible. Cups are a convenient choice for both hot and cold drinks, thus, they are suitable for use in grab-and-go meals, catering services, and on-the-go consumption.

The factor of lightweight structure and portability make them popular among the foodservice industry in different places. Moreover, cups are produced in multiple sizes and materials, which can satisfy the needs of different customers and are relatively inexpensive compared to reusable ones.

HoReCa Reigns Supreme in the Foodservice Disposables Market

The HoReCa industry (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes) is the leader of the market with an impressive 65% share. In the hospitality industry, the speed of operation requires fast solutions for quick food and beverage service.

Disposable cups offer a hygienic and convenient alternative as these cups can be disposed of without having to wash and sanitize reusable cups. It means that HoReCa businesses will likely witness a spike in the adoption of foodservice service.

This has also been furthered by the high demand for online food delivery and takeaway services which keep disposable cups as an essential part of the modern food service landscape.

Ismail Sutaria
Ismail Sutaria

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Country-wise Insights

Foodservice Disposable Trend Analysis in the United States

Country United States
CAGR till 2034 4.3%

United States is progressing at a CAGR of 4.3% until 2034, a moderate growth pace in the disposable market. This is because as compared to the developing economies like India, Japan, and China, this is average. Due to reasons including convenience or saving price among others.

This adoption of disposables by the USA food service industry is influenced by the fact that they have reusable alternatives for the nation’s mature market and also higher average incomes such that people eat out more often than not. Nevertheless, busy lifestyles and an increasing demand for takeout and delivery services should keep the market moving forward.

Foodservice Disposable Trend Analysis in the United Kingdom

Country United Kingdom
CAGR till 2034 3.3%

The United Kingdom shows similar trends to the USA, where its foodservice disposable market is expected to rise at a CAGR of 3.3% up to 2034. In this case, there could be greater demand since their disposable market is very advanced, with high-income averages in comparison with other countries.

However, there are no changes in convenience and on-the-go eating habits among people across all walks of life, which is likely to push the demand for disposable cups, plates, etc. in the United Kingdom.

Even though the foodservice disposable market in the United Kingdom is moving at a slower pace when compared to India and China, it remains a significant segment within foodservice industry.

Foodservice Disposable Trend Analysis in Japan

Country Japan
CAGR till 2034 5.6%

One of the rapidly rising foodservice disposable markets is Japan, estimated to reach a CAGR of 5.6% by 2034. This is because of the huge support coming from strong takeaway and convenience dining cultures, and a significant aging population demanding easily used disposable items.

Japan's households may purchase reusables, but disposables offer them the convenience of their busy lifestyles and small living spaces. Thus, this focus on convenience positions Japan's disposable market for a much more dynamic growth trajectory than in developed economies such as the United States and the United Kingdom.

Foodservice Disposable Trend Analysis in China

Country China
CAGR till 2034 6.0%

The foodservice disposables market in China is pegged at a CAGR of 6.0% until 2034. Driving this trend is a burgeoning middle class and rapid urbanization with associated higher disposable income impacting 'eating-on-the-go' culture, at the same time accelerating the move towards online food ordering and delivery.

The consumption of disposables adoption in developing economies outpaces the developed economies because of a strong emphasis on convenience and affordability, besides a large population segment looking for value for their money.

Foodservice Disposable Trend Analysis in India

Country India
CAGR till 2034 6.3%

Foodservice disposable sector in India is projected to be opportunistic with a CAGR of 6.3% till 2034. This strong growth is generated from the country's population which is being influenced by social media, shifting focus to being more value-conscious, and the rapid rise of street food and quick-service restaurants.

The foodservice disposable industry in India is awaiting the entry of new players to make disposables the preferred choice for a large section of the population. Besides, an increasing propensity toward the adoption of online food delivery services also propels India to the league of frontrunners in the global foodservice disposable market.

Startup Ecosystem in Foodservice Disposable Industry

Startups are choosing the path of innovation to shake the food service disposable industry. A lot of young innovators in the foodservice disposables field are involved in completely new, fresh, and sometimes revolutionary solutions to sustainability issues, problems related to hygiene, or just changing demands of consumers.

Startups are now making green disposable alternatives from recycled, or even edible, bioplastics. Others are rethinking more modern designs for new functionality improvements, from leak-proof containers to avoiding the problem of having to retrieve a stack of plates from the cupboard.

Survival in this competitive landscape demands a laser focus on differentiation and value creation. For a startup, that would most likely be a very narrow niche, i.e., delivering chic disposable tableware for luxurious catering kinds of events or creating special spill-proof packaging for food delivery services.

Further, focusing on eco-friendly practices with sustainable materials will be attractive to all environmentally conscious consumers. So, from there, the startups dealing with hospitality supplies could extend themselves to technologies that enable online-based orders with, at their convenience, packaging, or subscription services for businesses with periodic requirements.

This is where such startups find a great opportunity in the evolving foodservice disposable industry through a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

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Competitive Outlook for the Foodservice Disposable Industry

The refurbished wearable device industry is vibrant with established players and emerging startups. In this regard, one can see several online marketplaces next to classic brick-and-mortar sellers fighting for the customer's eye.

The online giants, Back Market, Gazelle, and Decluttr, all sell a manner of refurbished wearable devices at relatively low prices. Take, for instance, Back Market, which has dominated the market with a level of transparency in pricing and playful branding.

Traditional retailers aren't sitting idle. On the other hand, while existing big established players like Best Buy Outlet and Walmart Renewed cash in on their consumer base and brand equity, Amazon Renewed brings along the guarantee of a big name for those looking for high-quality refurbished wearables with an assurance by Amazon.

The mixture of these two players, online and offline, means a competitive environment that, at the end of the day, accrues to the consumers who will have wider choices, and perhaps, even better deals.

RefurbMe and Renewed Electronics aim to enhance the diversity of the market. EBay Refurbished and independent refurbishers add another dynamic element to the landscape They are treasure troves of used devices, often specializing in specific needs or serving vintage enthusiasts. Their quality control might be off, but they give a selection very far from the run-of-the-mill and direct it to a specific type of customer.

The overall outlook for the refurbished wearable market is projected to increase and is driven by consumer interest in increasing low-cost and sustainable purchases. With competition set to heat up, those players that stand out through transparent pricing, strong quality control, and excellent customer service will be best placed.

Recent Developments in the Foodservice Disposable Industry

  • In 2021, Amcor introduced AmFiber, based in Australia, a new platform for paper-based packaging solutions, marking a significant innovation in ethical packaging,
  • Placon, headquartered in the United States, acquired a former Sonoco packaging facility in North Carolina in October 2021, aiming to increase its manufacturing capacity.
  • In January 2020, Imperial Dade expanded its presence in Texas by acquiring Wagner Supply Company, enhancing its foodservice disposables and janitorial supplies portfolio based in the United States.

Key Companies in the Market

  • Vegware Ltd.
  • Gold Plast SPA.
  • Anchor Packaging Inc.
  • Biopac India Corporation Ltd.
  • Dart Container Corporation
  • Berry Global Inc.
  • Pak-Man Food Packaging Co.
  • New Wincup Holdings Inc.
  • Georgia Pacific LLC.
  • D&W Fine Pack LLC.
  • H.T. Berry Company, Inc.

Key Coverage in the Foodservice Disposable Industry Report

  • Global Food Service Disposable Market Size
  • Demand Analysis of Foodservice Disposables Packaging
  • USA Foodservice Single-Use Product Sales
  • Europe Foodservice Disposables Market Outlook
  • Industry Analysis of Biodegradable Foodservice Disposables in Europe

Key Segments

By Material Type:

  • Plastic
    • Polypropylene (PP)
    • Polyethylene (PE)
    • Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
    • Polystyrene (PS)
    • Biodegradable Plastic
    • Other Plastics
  • Paper & Paperboard
    • Paper
    • Bagasse/Sugarcane Pulp
    • Bamboo
    • Others (Seeds, Bast, etc.)
  • Molded Fiber

By Product Type:

  • Plates
  • Trays
  • Bowls
  • Cups
  • Clamshells
  • Cutlery
  • Others (Straws & Stirrers)

By End Use:

  • Hotels, Restaurants, & Cafes (HoReCa)
    • Full-service restaurants
    • Quick service restaurants
    • Catering Services
    • Others (Pub, Bar, etc.)
  • Retail
  • Online Food Delivery
  • Others (Hospitals, Schools, offices, etc.)

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia
  • Oceania
  • Middle East and Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Market Potential for Foodservice Disposable?

The foodservice disposable market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 5.80% between 2024 and 2034.

Which Product Type Segment Dominates the Foodservice Disposable Market?

The foodservice disposable cups segment dominates the industry.

Who are the Leading Foodservice Disposable Manufacturers?

Leading companies are Vegware Ltd., Gold Plast SPA., and Anchor Packaging Inc.

What is the Foodservice Disposable Market Growth Outlook for 2034?

The market is anticipated to surpass USD 123.2 billion by 2034.

What is Driving the Demand for Foodservice Disposable in the United States?

The demand for foodservice disposables in the United States is primarily driven by convenience, hygiene concerns, and the growing trend of takeout and delivery services.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Market Background
	4. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast, 2024 to 2034
	5. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Material Type
		5.1. Plastic
			5.1.1. Polypropylene (PP)
			5.1.2. Polyethylene (PE)
			5.1.3. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
			5.1.4. Polystyrene (PS)
			5.1.5. Biodegradable Plastic
			5.1.6. Others
		5.2. Paper & Paperboard
			5.2.1. Paper
			5.2.2. Bagasse/Sugarcane Pulp
			5.2.3. Bamboo
			5.2.4. Others
		5.3. Molded Fiber
	6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Product Type
		6.1. Plates
		6.2. Trays
		6.3. Bowls
		6.4. Cups
		6.5. Clamshells
		6.6. Cutlery
		6.7. Others (Straws & Stirrers)
	7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By End Use
		7.1. Hotels, Restaurants, & Cafes (HoReCa)
			7.1.1. Full-service restaurants
			7.1.2. Quick service restaurants
			7.1.3. Catering Services
			7.1.4. Others (Pub, Bar, etc.)
		7.2. Retail
		7.3. Online Food Delivery
		7.4. Others (Hospitals, Schools, offices, etc.)
	8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region
		8.1. North America
		8.2. Latin America
		8.3. Western Europe
		8.4. Eastern Europe
		8.5. South Asia and Pacific
		8.6. East Asia
		8.7. Middle East and Africa
	9. North America Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country
	10. Latin America Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country
	11. Western Europe Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country
	12. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country
	13. South Asia and Pacific Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country
	14. East Asia Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country
	15. Middle East and Africa Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country
	16. Key Countries Market Analysis
	17. Market Structure Analysis
	18. Competition Analysis
		18.1. Huhtamaki Food Service
		18.2. Graphic Packaging International LLC
		18.3. Sonoco Products Company
		18.4. Sabert Corp.
		18.5. Genpak LLC
		18.6. Pactiv LLC
		18.7. Contital Srl
		18.8. Go Pak Group
		18.9. R+R Packaging Ltd.
		18.10. Interplast Group
	19. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
	20. Research Methodology
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