Europe Single-use Plastic Packaging Market Size (2024 - 2029)

Europe Single-use Plastic Packaging Market Analysis

The Europe Single-use Plastic Packaging Market size is estimated at USD 4.34 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 5.26 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 3.92% during the forecast period (2024-2029).

• The rise of urbanization in Europe has fueled a growing appetite for pre-packaged and ready-to-eat foods, reshaping the landscape of food service packaging. Consequently, the demand for single-use plastic packaging solutions is on the rise. Moreover, as urbanization spreads in specific areas, coupled with evolving lifestyles, the challenges of a fast-paced work environment, and a growing reliance on online food services, the demand for single-use plastic packaging solutions in the foodservice sector is further amplified.
• This trend is expected to continue, driven by the convenience and efficiency that single-use plastic packaging offers consumers and businesses. Additionally, the increasing focus on hygiene and safety, especially after recent global health concerns, further boosts the preference for single-use packaging. As a result, manufacturers are innovating to meet these demands, developing more sustainable and eco-friendly options to address environmental concerns while maintaining functionality.
• The single-use packaging industry has responded to evolving consumer demands, especially the rising need for convenience. With busy lifestyles, professionals seek ease, even in everyday items like food. Moreover, manufacturers are now prioritizing packaging that can be swiftly disposed of, reflecting a growing concern for post-use waste management. This shift has led to innovations in materials and design, ensuring that single-use packaging meets both consumer convenience and environmental considerations.
• The food industry in Europe is witnessing a notable increase in demand, catalyzing the rise of the multi-billion-dollar online food delivery sector. Key players like Takeaway.com and Delivery Hero have expanded significantly, leveraging robust infrastructure and competitive commission rates. Conversely, while boasting a cost-effective approach, platform-to-consumer services like Deliveroo and Uber Eats shoulder the entire delivery logistics burden. Notably, these companies are experiencing rapid growth, especially in urban hubs. These divergent models will likely merge, fueling a heightened need for single-use plastic packaging solutions. This growth is driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the convenience these services offer. As a result, stakeholders are investing heavily in improving delivery efficiency and sustainability practices to meet the evolving demands of the market.
• The European Union has implemented laws and regulations to reduce the use of single-use packaging, notably targeting items such as plastic cutlery and plates across its member states. These regulations extend to various other packaging needs throughout the European regions. While this ban restricts certain products, it also presents a unique challenge for companies operating in the region. They are now compelled to pivot towards innovative solutions, exploring alternative materials that mimic the properties of traditional single-use plastics.

Europe Single-use Plastic Packaging Industry Segmentation

Single-use plastics, often also referred to as disposable plastics, are commonly used for plastic packaging and include items intended to be used once before they are thrown away or recycled. These include, among other things, grocery bags, food packaging, bottles, straws, containers, cups, and cutlery.

The European single-use plastic packaging market is segmented by material (polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), and other material types), product type (bottles, bags, and pouches, clamshells, trays, cups, and lids, and other product types), end-user type (quick service restaurants, full service restaurants, institutional, retail, and other end-users types), and country (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy and Rest of Europe). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD) for all the above segments.