North America Food Service Disposable Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Material (Plastic, Paper & Paperboard, Metal, Fiber Based), By Types (Platters, Cups & Lids), By Application, By Distribution Channel, By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Market Size & Trends

The North America food service disposable market was estimated at USD 27.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2025 to 2030. The increasing demand for convenience in food consumption is a key factor driving the growth of the North American food service disposable industry. Consumers increasingly seek ready-to-eat meals and snacks, preferring options that require little preparation. As a result, many opt for takeout and delivery services, which boosts the need for disposable products such as packaging, containers, cutlery, and napkins. This trend towards on-the-go dining is expected to continue, further fueling the demand for disposables. The growing preference for convenience in food consumption is a primary driver in the North American food service disposable industry.

The growth of food delivery and takeout services has significantly increased the demand for disposable packaging and utensils. This trend was further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a surge in online food orders. Consumers now order food more frequently through apps and delivery services, creating a greater need for convenient, single-use items. These disposable products help make food transport easier and more efficient for consumers and food service operators. As the popularity of delivery and takeout continues to rise, so does the demand for disposable solutions. This growing sector is a key driver in the North American food service disposable industry.

In addition, the rise of fast-casual and quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains in North America have contributed to the growing demand for food service disposables. QSRs often provide high volumes of takeout and delivery options, which increases the need for disposable packaging, containers, and utensils. These restaurants offer quick and convenient meals, relying heavily on single-use products for efficient service. As more consumers opt for fast food and takeaway meals, the demand for disposables continues to rise. The expansion of the QSR sector plays a significant role in the overall growth of the disposable foodservice market. This trend is a major factor driving the North American food service disposable industry.

Material Insights

The plastic segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 52.6% in 2024, driven by the increasing consumer preference for lightweight and versatile packaging solutions. Plastics offer durability and convenience, making them ideal for food service applications where portability is essential. In addition, innovations in plastic materials, such as biodegradable options, enhance their appeal among environmentally conscious consumers. The ongoing shift toward ready-to-eat meals and takeout services further propels the demand for plastic packaging, as it effectively meets the needs of fast-paced lifestyles.

The fiber based segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR of 4.8% over the forecast period, fueled by rising sustainability concerns among consumers and businesses. As more food service providers adopt eco-friendly practices, the demand for fiber-based packaging solutions is increasing. These materials are often perceived as more sustainable compared to traditional plastics, aligning with consumer preferences for environmentally responsible products. Expanding e-commerce and online food delivery services also support this growth, as fiber-based packaging is well-suited for shipping and handling.

Types Insights

The trays and containers segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by their essential role in food presentation and storage. These packaging types provide effective solutions for hot and cold food items, ensuring freshness and quality during transport. The versatility of trays and containers makes them a preferred choice among food service operators who require reliable packaging that can accommodate various menu items. The increasing trend of meal kits and pre-packaged meals further enhances the demand for these products.

The cups and lids segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period due to the rising consumption of beverages on the go. As lifestyles become busier, consumers increasingly opt for convenient drink options that can be easily transported. Innovations in cup designs that enhance functionality, such as spill-proof lids and insulated materials, also contribute to this growth. Furthermore, expanding coffee shops and beverage outlets supports a sustained demand for disposable cups.

Application Insights

The food service segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by the increasing reliance on takeout and delivery services. Changes in consumer behavior towards dining out have led to a surge in demand for disposable packaging that ensures food safety and quality during transit. The growth of fast-casual dining establishments also plays a crucial role in this trend, as they often utilize disposable packaging to enhance customer convenience while maintaining operational efficiency.

The online segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period due to the rapid increase in online food ordering platforms. Consumers are increasingly turning to digital solutions for meal purchases, necessitating efficient and reliable packaging options that can withstand delivery processes. This shift reflects changing consumer preferences and highlights the importance of adaptive packaging solutions that cater to e-commerce demands.

Distribution Channel Insights

The direct distribution segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2024, fueled by its ability to offer customized solutions directly to food service providers, addressing their unique needs. Manufacturers can ensure more efficient and personalized service by maintaining close relationships with clients. The growth of digital platforms has further improved direct distribution, allowing for faster response times and more tailored offerings. As food service businesses seek more flexible and responsive suppliers, direct distribution continues to gain importance. This trend is a key driver in the North American food service disposable industry.

The GPO segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period, which can be attributed to its ability to leverage collective buying power for cost savings. As food service operators seek ways to optimize expenses while maintaining quality standards, GPOs provide an attractive solution by negotiating better pricing on bulk purchases. This trend reflects a broader movement within the industry towards collaborative purchasing strategies that enhance operational efficiency.

Key North America Food Service Disposable Market Company Insights

Key companies in the North America food service disposable industry are Graphic Packaging International, LLC; Sonoco Products Company; Sabert Corporation; Pactiv Evergreen Inc., and Inteplast Group. These players adopt numerous strategies to improve their competitive edge. Strategic partnerships are formed to leverage complementary strengths, improve product offerings, and expand distribution networks. In addition, mergers and acquisitions enable companies to consolidate resources, enter new markets, and diversify their product lines. Furthermore, new product launches focus on innovation and meeting evolving consumer preferences, allowing companies to capture market share.

• Graphic Packaging International, LLC offers various sustainable and innovative packaging solutions for the North American food service disposable market. Its products include flexible packagings such as Tite-Pak, eco-friendly mono-plastic options, and specialized folding cartons such as ProducePack and PaperSeal barrier-lined trays.

• Sonoco Products Company offers a wide range of packaging solutions. These include thermoformed trays, flexible bags, plastic tubs, ovenable packaging for ready meals, and vertical form-fill-seal pouches for bulk items. The company also provides condiment and dip packaging that supports portion control and easy dispensing for food service operations.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Sonoco Products agreed to sell its business to TOPPAN Holdings Inc. of Thermoformed and Flexibles Packaging (TFP) on a debt-free and cash-free basis for approximately $1.8 billion. The deal is anticipated to close in the first half of 2025.

• In September 2022, Graphic Packaging International invested strategically in a new PaperSeal machine in the U.S. to meet local demand for sustainable packaging solutions. This investment aims to boost the production of their eco-friendly PaperSeal packaging, offering an alternative to traditional plastic containers while improving supply chain efficiency and supporting the growing consumer preference for sustainable food packaging.

North America Food Service Disposable Market Report Scope

North America Food Service Disposable Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at country levels and analyzes the latest industry trends in each sub-segment from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the North America food service disposable market report based on material, types, application, distribution channel, and country:

• Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Plastic

    • PP

    • PE

    • EPS

    • Others

  • Paper & Paperboard

  • Metal

  • Fiber Based

  • Others

• Types Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Platters

  • Cups & Lids

    • PP Based

    • PET Based

    • EPS Based

    • Others

  • Trays & Containers

  • Bowls

  • Bags

  • Boxes & Cartons

  • Cutlery

  • Others

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Food Service

    • Full Service

    • Quick Service

    • Others

  • Online

  • Institutional

• Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • Corporate Distributors

    • Direct Distribution

    • GPO

    • Individual Distributor

  • Individual Distrubutors

  • GPO

  • Direct Distribution

  • Others

• Country Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018 - 2030)

  • U.S.

  • Canada

  • Mexico