Food Service Packaging Market - By Materials (Plastic, Metal, Paperboard), By Packaging Type (Flexible Packaging, Rigid Packaging), By Application (Foodservice Outlets, Institutional Foodservices, Online Food Ordering) & Forecast, 2024 – 2032

Food Service Packaging Market Size

Food Service Packaging Market was valued at USD 131.48 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to register a CAGR of over 4.9% between 2024 and 2032. Rising demand for convenience food, busy lifestyles and increasing disposable income are driving the demand for convenient food options like takeout, delivery, and frozen meals. This increased consumption necessitates effective and sustainable food service packaging.
 

Growing environmental awareness is pushing consumers and businesses towards eco-friendly packaging solutions. This includes the use of biodegradable materials, compostable options, and recyclable packaging. According to a 2022 report by The World Bank, food packaging waste accounts for 8-10% of global waste generation. Additionally, Advancements in packaging technology, like active and intelligent packaging, offer features like extended shelf life, temperature control, and improved tamper detection. This increases food safety and reduces waste.
 

Ongoing innovations in packaging design, such as tamper-evident seals, resealable options, and microwave-safe packaging, contribute to market growth. Customizable packaging solutions offer opportunities for branding and marketing, allowing food service providers to differentiate their products. These are the factors that are boosting growth of food packaging services market.
 

Food Service Packaging Market Trends

Packaging material trends are influenced by a combination of consumer preferences, industry needs, technological advancements, and sustainability considerations. One notable trend is the increasing focus on sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious, leading to a growing demand for materials that reduce environmental impact. Examples of this trend include the rise of biodegradable plastics, compostable packaging, and the utilization of recycled materials in packaging.
 

Additionally, there is a significant push towards minimalist and functional design in packaging. Brands are adopting food service packaging that prioritize simplicity, ease of use, and reduced waste. This trend aligns with the growing popularity of eco-conscious brands that emphasize a commitment to sustainability throughout their entire packaging type life cycle.
 

Food Service Packaging Market Analysis

Based on material, the market is divided into plastic, metal, paperboard, others. Paperboard held the dominant market share. The use of paperboards as food service packaging has gained popularity due to several drivers that align with consumer preferences, sustainability goals, and regulatory considerations. Increasing consumer awareness and concern about environmental issues have led to a growing demand for sustainable packaging options. Paperboards are often perceived as more environmentally friendly compared to certain plastic alternatives, as they are biodegradable and come from a renewable resource—trees.
 

Based on Packaging type, the food service packaging industry is categorized into flexible packaging and rigid packaging. Rigid packaging accounted for over 70% market share in 2023 and is projected to grow through 2032. Rigid packaging for food service applications offers several advantages, and its adoption is driven by various factors that cater to the needs of both consumers and businesses. Rigid packaging provides excellent protection against external elements, ensuring the freshness and quality of food products during storage, transportation, and display. The sturdy nature of rigid packaging helps prevent contamination, maintaining the integrity and safety of the packaged food items.
 

Based on application, the market is categorized into foodservice outlets, institutional foodservices, online food ordering. Foodservice outlets accounted for over 50% market share in 2023 and is projected to grow through 2032. Foodservice outlets use packaging as a tool for branding, ensuring that the packaging aligns with the overall brand image and enhances the customer's experience. Foodservice outlets often choose packaging that supports the portability of their offerings, catering to the needs of customers who prefer on-the-go or takeout options. Adherence to food safety regulations and standards is crucial. Foodservice outlets choose packaging that meets or exceeds these standards to ensure the safety of their customers.
 

North America dominated the global food service packaging market in 2023. Within North America, the U.S. generated a revenue of over USD 26.29 billion in 2023. The demand for food service packaging is driven by the busy lifestyles of consumers, leading to a preference for convenient, on-the-go food options. The rise of food delivery platforms and the popularity of takeout services contribute to the demand for efficient and reliable food service packaging solutions. Increasing environmental awareness among consumers has led to a demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions in the U.S.
 

Food Service Packaging Market Share

The global food service packaging industry is highly fragmented owing to the presence of several market players. Major companies operating in the market are Amcor plc, Sealed Air, Sonoco Products Company, Berry Global Inc, accounting over 35% market share in the year 2023. The major market players are focusing on mergers & acquisitions, facility expansion, and strategic partnerships to expand their Packaging type offerings, customer reach, and enhance market presence. Companies are also focusing on acquisition strategy.
 

These companies often have a wide-ranging portfolio of packaging solutions, including plastics, flexible packaging, and protective materials. Leading companies invest significantly in research and development to drive innovation in food service packaging. This includes the development of advanced materials, intelligent packaging solutions, and sustainable alternatives to meet evolving industry demands.
 

Food Service Packaging Market Companies

Major players operating in the food service packaging industry include:

• Amcor plc
• Sealed Air
• Sonoco Products Company
• Berry Global Inc
• WestRock Company
• Mondi
• Genpak LLC
• Pactiv LLC
• Chantler Packages
• Winpak Limited
   

Food Service Packaging Industry News

• In November, 2023, Huhtamaki, a Finnish packaging company, unveils its new Nature Stretch paper packaging with integrated stretch film properties, aimed at replacing plastic-based alternatives.
   
• In December 2023, WestRock, a leading American cardboard and corrugated packaging manufacturer, launches its DuraShield line of leak-proof paperboard bowls and cups for hot and cold foods.
   
• In December 2023, Sealed Air Corporation, a global food packaging and protective packaging solutions provider, introduces its Cryovac OvenEase bagless roasting solution for poultry and vegetables.
   

The food service packaging market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry, with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue and volume (USD Million) (Kilo Tons) from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, by Material

• Plastic
• Metal
• Paperbaords
• others

Market, by Packaging Type

• Flexible Packaging
• Rigid Packaging

Market, by Application

• Foodservice Outlets
• Institutional Foodservices
• Online Food Ordering
   

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Malaysia       
  • Indonesia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• MEA
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • South Africa