Single Use Plastic Packaging Market Size
| Study Period | 2019 - 2029 |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 23.47 Billion |
| Market Size (2029) | USD 28.16 Billion |
| CAGR (2024 - 2029) | 3.71 % |
| Fastest Growing Market | Asia Pacific |
| Largest Market | Asia-Pacific |
| Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players.webp)
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Single Use Plastic Packaging Market Analysis
The Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market size is estimated at USD 23.47 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 28.16 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 3.71% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
- The expanding urban population drives the demand for prepared and ready-to-eat food products, significantly influencing food service packaging trends. This trend is expected to increase the demand for single-use plastic packaging solutions during the forecast period. Consumers in urban areas often have busier lifestyles and less time for meal preparation, leading to a greater reliance on convenience foods that require efficient packaging.
- The rise of food delivery services and takeaway options in cities has further amplified this demand. In key regions, urbanization, lifestyle changes, adaptation to fast-paced work environments, and increased reliance on online food platforms rapidly transform the foodservice industry dynamics, further boosting the demand for single-use plastic packaging solutions. These factors collectively contribute to a growing market for packaging that prioritizes convenience, portability, and food preservation, characteristics often associated with single-use plastic packaging in the foodservice industry.
- The growth of end users, including quick-service restaurants, full-service restaurants, coffee shops, snack outlets, and institutional facilities, drives the demand for convenient packaging solutions. This trend is expected to increase the production of single-use packaging formats. The shift from rigid to flexible packaging is gaining momentum as consumers seek convenience and adapt to changing lifestyles, particularly in smaller households. Consequently, single-use plastic packaging is experiencing increased popularity across various food service segments.
- The rapid expansion of fast-food franchises and quick-service restaurants drives the market's growth, responding to changing demographics, employment patterns, and lifestyles. Fast food's affordability and quick preparation times align with consumers' demand for convenient meal options. This global increase in fast food consumption directly supports the growth of single-use plastic packaging in the food service industry.
- The growing demand for consumer convenience is a crucial factor driving the single-use plastic packaging market. Manufacturers adapt to evolving customer preferences by offering packaging solutions catering to these changing needs. The busy lifestyles of working professionals have increased the demand for convenient food packaging options. Additionally, producers are now considering post-use disposal, leading to the development of packaging items that can be easily discarded.
- Regulations on single-use plastics and the growing preference for sustainable packaging alternatives, such as fiber and paper-based products, challenge the market's growth. These regulations aim to reduce plastic waste and promote environment-friendly packaging solutions. The shift towards sustainable alternatives is driven by both consumer demand and governmental policies.
- Increasing consumer awareness about the environmental impact of single-use plastics and unsustainable practices has led to demands for higher development standards with positive ecological outcomes. This awareness has prompted many consumers to actively seek out products with eco-friendly packaging, putting pressure on companies to adapt their packaging strategies. As a result, businesses across various industries are investing in research and development of innovative, sustainable packaging solutions to meet these evolving consumer expectations and comply with regulatory requirements.
Single Use Plastic Packaging Market Trends
Quick Service Restaurants Segment to Hold a Significant Share
- Quick-service restaurants (QSRs) provide affordable food options focusing on rapid service. These establishments are characterized by limited table service and a strong emphasis on self-service, setting them apart from traditional restaurants. QSRs typically offer a streamlined menu of easily prepared items, such as burgers, sandwiches, and fried foods, which can be quickly assembled and served. The efficiency of their operations allows them to serve a high volume of customers quickly, making them popular for those seeking quick meals.
- The majority of single-use plastic food service products utilized in QSRs are made from expanded polystyrene (EPS), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polylactic acid (PLA). These materials are chosen for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to maintain food temperature, contributing to the overall efficiency and customer experience in quick-service settings.
- Quick-service restaurant (QSR) menu items are typically consumed directly from their packaging. Consumers opt for fast food due to its convenience, rapid preparation, value, and affordability. Consequently, packaging is an essential food product component and must align with consumers' motivations and expectations for fast food. The packaging serves multiple purposes, including maintaining food temperature, preserving freshness, and facilitating easy consumption. It also plays a crucial role in brand identity and customer perception.
- As sustainability concerns grow, many QSRs are exploring eco-friendly packaging options to meet consumer demands for environmental responsibility while maintaining the convenience and functionality that fast food customers expect. The design and materials used in fast food packaging must balance practicality, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact, all while enhancing the overall dining experience for consumers.
- In today's fast-paced environment, single-use plastic packaging has become integral to Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs). Consumers need more time for meal preparation at home, so they increasingly rely on fast food options. This shift in consumer behavior has led to a greater demand for convenient, on-the-go meal solutions. Single-use plastic packaging allows QSRs to meet this demand by packaging food efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. These packaging solutions are designed to withstand various temperatures and maintain food quality during transportation. They also offer practical benefits such as leak resistance and easy handling, which are crucial for customers who often consume their meals while commuting or at their workplaces.
- The growing popularity of restaurants drives the expansion of the fast-food and quick-service restaurant (QSR) market. As major QSR brands increase their outlets, they create demand for single-use plastic packaging. This expansion is evident across various regions and cuisines, reflecting changing consumer preferences for convenient and affordable dining options.
- The trend is particularly noticeable in urban areas and emerging markets, where rapid urbanization and busier lifestyles contribute to the increased patronage of QSRs. For example, McDonald's, a global QSR brand, has been steadily growing its store count worldwide in response to the rising demand for quick meals. The company's global store count grew from 37,241 in 2017 to 41,822 in 2023, illustrating this trend. This growth was not limited to McDonald's alone; other major QSR chains expanded their footprints, further driving the demand for single-use packaging.
Asia-Pacific Expected to Hold Significant Share in the Market
- In Asia-Pacific, many densely populated countries and emerging economies, such as China and India, have a high demand for food services. Consequently, the need for single-use plastic packaging is increasing and will remain elevated during the forecast period. Plastic has been a crucial component of the packaging sector, which is central to consumer convenience culture. The versatility and durability of plastic make it an attractive option for various food packaging applications, from takeaway containers to beverage bottles.
- Due to plastic packaging's favorable cost-performance ratio compared to other materials, many food service and packaging applications have transitioned from traditional packaging materials like corrugated paper boards, glass, and metal to plastics. This shift is particularly noticeable in urban areas where the food delivery and quick-service restaurant sectors are rapidly expanding. The lightweight nature of plastic packaging also contributes to reduced transportation costs and lower carbon emissions in the supply chain, further driving its adoption in the food service industry across Asia.
- The region is expected to grow in terms of producing packaging products for domestic and off-premise food and beverage items, often ordered in bulk. This increase is driven by changing consumer habits and the growing demand for convenient, portable food options. Single-use plastic packaging is widely used in the region for various applications, including clamshells, bottles, trays, cups, and lids, particularly in fast-food establishments. The versatility and cost-effectiveness of these packaging solutions make them popular choices for businesses in the food service industry. However, this trend also raises concerns about environmental sustainability, prompting discussions about alternative packaging materials and recycling initiatives in the region.
- Due to its numerous end-user industries, the region is a significant investor and adopter of single-use plastic packaging. This adoption is evident across various sectors, including food and beverage, healthcare, and consumer goods. Several factors drive the regional market growth. Firstly, there is an increasing demand for packaged meals, particularly in urban areas where convenience is highly valued. Secondly, the expansion of restaurants and supermarkets has created a need for more packaging solutions to maintain food freshness and safety. Lastly, the rising consumption of bottled water and beverages, fueled by changing consumer preferences and lifestyle habits, has further boosted the demand for single-use plastic packaging in the region. These trends collectively contribute to the sustained growth and development of this area's single-use plastic packaging market.
- India stands out as a robust market in the region due to its large population and developing economy, leading to a significant increase in bottled water consumption. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) has introduced its own bottled water brand, "Rail Neer," primarily sold on trains and at railway stations. With the rising demand for bottled water and the expanding railway sector, IRCTC has substantially increased production. In 2021, the corporation produced 75.30 million bottles, which grew to 357.70 million bottles in 2023.
- The packaging industry in India and China has experienced significant growth in recent years. This expansion is attributed to several factors, including establishing new manufacturing units, adopting eco-friendly materials, and increasing focus on research and development. These developments have led to the creation of innovative and visually appealing products, all manufactured locally at competitive costs. Additionally, government initiatives such as India's 'Make in India' program are expected to accelerate these further advancements in the packaging industry.
- The increasing production and consumption of bottled water in China have positively influenced the market. Chinese consumers are increasingly adopting more active and healthier lifestyles, which has led to a surge in demand for bottled water. This trend is further fueled by rising concerns about water contamination in the country's tap water supply. As a result, China has experienced a significant increase in demand for bottled water across various demographics.
- The growing health consciousness among consumers has prompted them to seek safer and more convenient hydration options, making bottled water an attractive choice. According to Eastmoney.com, this shift in consumer behavior is reflected in the projected retail sales figures for bottled water in China. The market is expected to show substantial growth, with retail sales projected to reach CNY 353.6 billion (USD 49.67 billion) in 2025, a notable increase from CNY 200.2 billion (USD 28.12 billion) in 2020. This growth trajectory underscores the expanding market potential and the changing preferences of Chinese consumers toward bottled water products.
Single Use Plastic Packaging Industry Overview
The single-use plastic packaging market is fragmented. Several global and regional players, such as Berry Global Inc., Amcor Group GmbH, Huhtamäki Oyj, and Hotpack Packaging Industries LLC, are vying for attention in this contested space. This market is characterized by low product differentiation, growing product penetration, and high competition.
Single Use Plastic Packaging Market Leaders
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Winpak Ltd.
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Dart Container Corporation
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Berry Global Inc
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Hotpack Packaging Industries LLC
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Amcor Group
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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Single Use Plastic Packaging Market News
- August 2024: Pactiv Evergreen Inc., a food and beverage packaging manufacturer based in Lake Forest, Illinois, introduced Recycleware reduced-density polypropylene (RDPP) meat trays. This new product aims to provide packer processors with an alternative to foam polystyrene (PS) packaging.
- April 2024: Amcor, a global player in developing and producing sustainable packaging solutions, introduced a one-liter polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle for carbonated soft drinks (CSDs) made entirely from post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. This innovative stock option will help customers meet their sustainability goals and comply with environmental regulations. Amcor Rigid Packaging (ARP) is incorporating this one-liter CSD 100% PCR bottle into its growing portfolio of sustainable packaging products made from recycled materials.
- March 2024: Aptar – Food Protection, a provider of active material science food safety solutions, obtained a license to manufacture and distribute Halopack's sustainable food packaging product in North America. The patented Aptar Halopack solution is designed for both dry and high-moisture foods. It is made in various configurations, including skin pack, clamshell, freezable, microwave and oven-safe, and modified atmosphere packaging. The duo-tray configuration offers a solution for foods that require a multi-compartment structure to preserve the integrity of separate ingredients until consumption.
Single Use Plastic Packaging Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Study Assumption and Market Definition
1.2 Scope of the Study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS
4.1 Market Overview
4.2 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
4.2.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
4.2.2 Bargaining Power of Consumers
4.2.3 Threat of New Entrants
4.2.4 Threat of Substitutes
4.2.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
4.3 Industrial Value Chain Analysis
5. MARKET DYNAMICS
5.1 Market Drivers
5.1.1 The Increasing Number of Quick-Service Restaurants and Food Establishments has Driven Market Demand
5.2 Market Restraints
5.2.1 Environmental Concerns and Government Regulations Regarding Use of Plastic in Packaging
6. MARKET SEGMENTATION
6.1 By Material
6.1.1 Polylactic Acid (PLA)
6.1.2 Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
6.1.3 Polyethylene (PE)
6.1.4 Other Material Types
6.2 By Product Type
6.2.1 Bottles
6.2.2 Bags and Pouches
6.2.3 Clamshells
6.2.4 Trays, Cups, and Lids
6.2.5 Other Product Types
6.3 By End User
6.3.1 Quick Service Restaurants
6.3.2 Full Service Restaurants
6.3.3 Institutional
6.3.4 Retail
6.3.5 Other End Users
6.4 By Geography***
6.4.1 North America
6.4.1.1 United States
6.4.1.2 Canada
6.4.2 Europe
6.4.2.1 Germany
6.4.2.2 United Kingdom
6.4.2.3 France
6.4.2.4 Italy
6.4.3 Asia-Pacific
6.4.3.1 China
6.4.3.2 Japan
6.4.3.3 India
6.4.3.4 Australia and New Zealand
6.4.4 Latin America
6.4.4.1 Brazil
6.4.4.2 Mexico
6.4.4.3 Columbia
6.4.5 Middle East and Africa
6.4.5.1 United Arab Emirates
6.4.5.2 Saudi Arabia
6.4.5.3 South Africa
7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
7.1 Company Profiles
7.1.1 Novolex
7.1.2 Pactiv LLC
7.1.3 Dart Container Corporation
7.1.4 Winpak Ltd
7.1.5 Berry Global Inc.
7.1.6 Amcor Group
7.1.7 Huhtamaki Oyj
7.1.8 Hotpack Packaging Industries LLC
7.1.9 Graphic Packaging International LLC
7.1.10 Pactiv Evergreen Inc.
- *List Not Exhaustive
8. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
9. FUTURE OF THE MARKET
Single Use Plastic Packaging Industry Segmentation
Single-use plastic packaging refers to disposable containers, wrappers, and other packaging materials made from plastic designed to be used only once before being discarded or recycled. These items are typically used for food, beverages, consumer goods, and various other products, serving the purpose of protection, preservation, and convenience during transportation and storage. Single-use plastic packaging encompasses many products, including plastic bags, food containers, beverage bottles, cutlery, straws, and packaging films. These materials are often lightweight, cost-effective, and provide excellent barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and contaminants.
The single-use plastic packaging market is segmented by material (polylactic acid [PLA], 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 (quick-service restaurants, full-service restaurants, institutional, retail, and other end users), and geography (North America [United States, Canada], Europe [Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Rest of Europe], Asia-Pacific [China, Japan, India, Australia and New Zealand, and Rest of Asia-Pacific], Latin America [Brazil, Mexico, Columbia, and Rest of Latin America], Middle East and Africa [United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Rest of Middle East and Africa]). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD) for all the above segments.
| By Material | |
| Polylactic Acid (PLA) | |
| Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) | |
| Polyethylene (PE) | |
| Other Material Types |
| By Product Type | |
| Bottles | |
| Bags and Pouches | |
| Clamshells | |
| Trays, Cups, and Lids | |
| Other Product Types |
| By End User | |
| Quick Service Restaurants | |
| Full Service Restaurants | |
| Institutional | |
| Retail | |
| Other End Users |
| By Geography*** | ||||||
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Single Use Plastic Packaging Market Research FAQs
How big is the Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market?
The Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 23.47 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 3.71% to reach USD 28.16 billion by 2029.
What is the current Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market size?
In 2024, the Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market size is expected to reach USD 23.47 billion.
Who are the key players in Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market?
Winpak Ltd., Dart Container Corporation, Berry Global Inc, Hotpack Packaging Industries LLC and Amcor Group are the major companies operating in the Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market.
Which is the fastest growing region in Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market?
Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2024-2029).
Which region has the biggest share in Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market?
In 2024, the Asia-Pacific accounts for the largest market share in Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market.
What years does this Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market cover, and what was the market size in 2023?
In 2023, the Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market size was estimated at USD 22.60 billion. The report covers the Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the Global Single Use Plastic Packaging Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.
Single Use Plastic Packaging Industry Report
Statistics for the 2024 Single Use Packaging market share, size and revenue growth rate, created by Mordor Intelligence™ Industry Reports. Single Use Packaging analysis includes a market forecast outlook to 2029 and historical overview. Get a sample of this industry analysis as a free report PDF download.
Single Use Plastic Packaging Market Report Snapshots
