Foodservice Disposables Industry Analysis in Europe (2024 - 2034)

Europe Foodservice Disposables Market Size and Share Forecast Outlook From 2024 to 2034

The Europe foodservice disposables market size is estimated to be worth USD 20,122.6 million in 2024 and is anticipated to reach a value of USD 27,056.6 million by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 3.0% over the forecast period between 2024 and 2034. The revenue generated by foodservice disposables in 2023 was USD 19,600.7 million. The industry is anticipated to exhibit a Y-o-Y growth of 2.7% in 2024.

Foodservice disposables are majorly utilized in bulk for commercial purposes more than for institutional or household rather. The commercial use segment is likely to account for 66.5% of the market due to convenience, the low cost and high effectiveness of food service disposables. They offer fast service and ease in cleaning, minimize contamination hazards and accommodate the needs of quick services in a way that pleases the customers and businesses.

Foodservice Disposables Industry Forecast

Attributes	Key Insights
Historical Size, 2023	USD 19,600.7 million
Estimated Size, 2024	USD 20,122.6 million
Projected Size, 2034	USD 27,056.6 million
Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034)	3.0%

Among packaging types, trays are set to capture more than 29% of the total market share in the assessment period. This is due to the convenience of use and its ability to hold different types of foods. They improve display, help in service efficiency and are contemporary, making them popular with both end users and service providers.

Though foodservice disposables can be produced from many materials, plastic is the most preferred material with a market share of 38.9% in 2024. Plastic foodservice disposables have gained popularity due to their strength and resistance to moisture along with relatively low prices. They find many applications in foodservice industry while maintaining the safety and hygiene of the products. In addition, the safe and convenient features of plastic, being light allow for easier movement and transportation which has led to increased use of this material in the European markets.

The foodservice disposables market in Europe is set to experience profitable growth during the forecast period. It is projected to create an incremental opportunity of 7,456.0 million and is predicted to rise 1.4 times the current value through 2034.

Semi-annual Market Update for Europe Foodservice Disposables Market

The below table presents the expected CAGR for the Europe foodservice disposables market over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2024 to 2034.

Particular	Value CAGR
H1	3.1% (2023 to 2033)
H2	3.5% (2023 to 2033)
H1	3.0% (2024 to 2034)
H2	3.6% (2024 to 2034)

In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2023 to 2033, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 3.1%, followed by a slightly higher growth rate of 3.5% in the second half (H2) of the same decade. Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2034, the CAGR is projected to decrease slightly to 3.0% in the first half and remain relatively moderate at 3.6% in the second half. In the first half (H1) the market witnessed a decrease of 10 BPS while in the second half (H2), the market witnessed an increase of 10 BPS.

Top Dynamics and Industry Trends Shaping the Europe Foodservice Disposables Market

Growing Beer Consumption Boosts Demand for Disposable Cups in Europe

With the growing beer consumption trend in Europe, there has been a gradual increase in the use of disposable cups within the beverages and foodservice industry. There has been more active social participation, geared towards social events such as festivals, and indoor and outdoor picnics in most countries especially those with high beer consumption like Germany and the UK Consequently, the need for disposable plastic or paper cups has increased.

The Brewers of Europe puts beer consumption at 76.3 million hectoliters in Germany and 48.1 million hectoliters in the UK which, in turn, increases the number of disposable cups needed. Cups disposed of after use, which can be considered a normal operational practice owing to functionality and hygiene, are increasingly becoming a necessity in large-scale events, foodservice venues and commercial catering.

This increasing popularity is in tandem with the growing European need for single-use foodservice disposables which are used more for practicality and the need to satisfy high beverage consumption levels. This increased beer consumption and the need for hygienic and convenient solutions are driving the demand for foodservice disposables in Europe.

Out-of-Home Dining Growth in Europe Spurs Demand for Foodservice Disposable Products

A crucial factor contributing to the expansion of foodservice disposables in the European market is the continuous increase in eating out, be it in the form of carry-out coffee shops and restaurants or delivery. As eating out has become more acceptable to people nowadays, there is an increased demand for throwaway items such as plates, bowls, trays, and cutleries. As per WHO, in France, more than 10 billion meals consumed in the past few years were from OOH outlets.

Whereas in Spain, over a third (34%) of expenditure on food was in the OOH sector. As OOH dining becomes an integral part of modern lifestyles, food service providers have resorted to using disposable items to help with speedy service, cleanliness, and mobility. This increase in the out-of-home food culture in European countries is propelling the demand for disposable items like plates, bowls, cups and cutlery.

Quality Perceptions Possibly Hamper Growth of Foodservice Disposable Market

Qualitative concerns may pose challenges to the growth of foodservice disposables market in Europe. It is common for many consumers to view disposable items as being less sturdy and less attractive than their counterparts where dining experiences are valued.

Food service business operators mostly avoid the usage of lower quality products to satisfy their customers and buy better disposables or reuse items instead. This can limit the adoption of food service disposables in Europe. In Europe, where sustainability and high standards are increasingly important, these perceptions of disposables as inferior could ultimately slow market growth.

Comparison of Historical vs Future Outlook on Changing Consumer Trends for Europe Foodservice Disposables Industry

The European foodservice disposables market recorded a CAGR of 1.5% during the historical period between 2019 and 2023. Market growth of foodservice disposables was positive as it reached a value of USD 19,600.7 million in 2023 from USD 18,433.4 million in 2019.

The period between 2019 and 2023 observed a gradual sales increase in Europe’s foodservice disposables market as a result of growing consumer need for convenience and sustainability. The increase in takeaway and delivery services along with the environmental consciousness that has been created, encouraged investments in eco-friendly disposable solutions across various foodservice segments.

In the following years, the demand over the forecast period from 2024 to 2034, is optimistic, indicating that the market will further grow. It is expected that regulatory reforms and a focus on sustainable practices will spur further developments in disposable products. There will also be a strong demand growth in the future as a result of changing consumer demand for hygiene and convenience which will reshape the competitive landscape.

Key Europe Foodservice Disposables Market Players and Concentration

Tier 1 companies comprise market leaders with a market revenue of above USD 350 million capturing significant market share of 3% to 12% in global market. These market leaders are characterized by high production capacity and a wide product portfolio. These market leaders are distinguished by their extensive expertise in manufacturing across multiple packaging formats and a broad geographical reach, underpinned by a robust consumer base.

They provide a wide range of series including recycling and manufacturing utilizing the latest technology and meeting the regulatory standards providing the highest quality. Prominent companies within tier 1 include Graphic Packaging International, LLC, Huhtamäki Oyj, Pactiv Evergreen Inc., Smurfit Westrock Plc, Berry Global Group

Tier 2 companies include mid-size players with revenue of USD 150 to 350 million having presence in specific regions and highly influencing the local market. These are characterized by a strong presence overseas and strong market knowledge. These market players have good technology and ensure regulatory compliance but may not have advanced technology and wide global reach. Prominent companies in tier 2 include Dart Container Corporation, Genpak, and Lollicup USA Inc.

Tier 3 includes the majority of small-scale companies operating at the local presence and serving niche markets having revenue below USD 150 million. These companies are notably oriented towards fulfilling local market demands and are consequently classified within the tier 3 share segment. They are small-scale players and have limited geographical reach. Tier 3, within this context, is recognized as an unorganized market, denoting a sector characterized by a lack of extensive structure and formalization when compared to organized competitors.

Analysis of Top Countries Producing, Certifying, Distributing, and Using Foodservice Disposables in Europe

The section below covers the future forecast for foodservice disposables market in terms of countries. Information on key countries in several parts of Europe including, Germany, UK, Spain, Italy, France, BENELUX, Nordic, Russia, Poland and Rest of Europe. Italy and Nordics are anticipated to remain at the forefront in Europe, with a CAGR of 3.8% and 4.4% through 2034.

Countries	Value CAGR (2024 to 2034)
Germany	2.6%
Italy	3.8%
France	3.3%
UK	2.9%
Spain	2.3%
BENELUX	3.7%
Nordics	4.4%
Russia	1.6%

Italy's Growing Coffee Consumption Habit Fuels Demand for Disposables in Europe

The foodservice disposables industry in UK is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 1,288.3 million over the forecast period. The country is estimated to hold more than 17% share and grow at rate of 2.9% by 2034 in Europe.

The rising coffee consumption in Italy is stimulating the growth of foodservice disposables in the Europe market since the country has a strong inclination towards café culture. As most Italians like to take pleasure in coffee on the go and sometimes in the bars, the demand for single-use cups, lids AND RELATED CUTLERY is rising. Coffee-drinking trends in the most western part of the region have affected the demand across the region as well.

As reported by the European Coffee Federation, in the year 2022 the population of the UK itself was responsible for coffee consumption in the region of 241000 tons. This surge in coffee consumption contributes to the expansion of disposable solutions to meet the convenience needs of coffee drinkers. Commercial use is anticipated to dominate the foodservice disposables market in Europe.

Spain’s Tourism Generates Increased Demand for Foodservice Disposables

The tourism industry in Spain creates a lot of opportunities for the foodservice disposables market. The country is anticipated to record a CAGR of 2.3% during the evaluation period.

One of the primary reasons for the increasing expansion of foodservice disposables market in European Countries is the growth of the tourism sector in Spain. According to ICEX Trade and Investment, more than 85 million tourists come to Spain each year and hence more spending on restaurants, cafes and even street vendors.

Tourists, on the other hand, require certain facilities that make it easy for them to move around, thus the use of disposable plates, cups and cutleries for food taken outside is encouraged. The expansion of the tourism sector is accompanied by an ever-increasing use of disposable items across Europe. With the rising of environmental issues, the concern is also adopting the use of biodegradable packages and substitutes within the industry, thus enhancing room for market creativity.

Europe Foodservice Disposables Industry Analysis by Top Investment Segments

The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. In terms of end use, commercial use is estimated to account for a share of 66.9% by 2034. By packaging type, trays are projected to dominate by holding a share of 29.7% by the end 2034.

Food Industry Trends Driving Commercial Use of Foodservice Disposables in Europe

End Use	Commercial Use
Value CAGR (2034)	3.1%

Among multiple end users, commercial use is expected to lead the foodservice disposables market in Europe during the forecast period. Commercial use is anticipated to rise at a CAGR of 3.1% generating an incremental growth opportunity worth USD 5,071.6 million by 2034. The commercial use consists of hotels & cafes, full-service & quick service restaurants, venues & catering, mobile food vendors, bakeries and patisserie.

In Europe, the trend of dining out as well as using food delivery services is on the rise mainly due to the fast-paced life and the enhanced craving for convenience among people. More restaurants, cafés and even catering services are employing disposable products to enhance their operations and at the same time meet the customer needs for quick meals. Based on the growing prevalence of online food delivery systems, packaging has also turned out to be an important factor due to safety and quality concerns.

In addition, the sustainability policies are making the companies use compostable disposables to adhere to sustainability laws and cater for the market requirements. All these factors point to the great influence of the organized sector in competitive marketing. Therefore, it can be inferred that in the foodservice disposables sector in Europe, commercial use is anticipated to dominate as compared to institutional and household use.

Convenience and Affordability of 51 to 100ml Tube Driving the Tube Packaging Market

Packaging Type	Trays
Value CAGR (2034)	3.8%

In the foodservice disposables market in Europe, trays are likely to top the market in terms of packaging type, followed by plates, bowls, cups, clamshells, and cutlery. It is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 3.8% during the projected period.

In Europe’s foodservice disposables market, trays are expected to emerge as the leading packaging type segment owing to their practical application in different dining settings. Most especially, they are good in many sectors, from take away, food delivery, and catering services, all of which require proper portion control and presentation of food.

The designs of trays allow for easy stacking during storage and transport, which results in safer transport and enough stocking for changing consumer demand. They allow serving various types of food in different portions which serves the convenience and effectiveness needs of the food service operators.

In addition to that, the trays can be made in different designs depending on the type of food and the mode of service offered, thereby widening their range of application still further. Because of the changing demographic patterns of the region’s population, which is more skewed towards a fast-paced lifestyle and fast-food restaurants that provide takeaway services, the prospects for the use of trays are expected to be even more optimistic in the assessment period.

Key Europe Foodservice Disposables Market Players and Concentration

Key players of foodservice disposables industry are developing and launching new products in the market. They are integrating with different firms and extending their geographical presence. Few of them are also collaborating and partnering with local brands and start-up companies for new product development.

Key Developments in Foodservice Disposables Market:

• In June 2024, Graphic Packaging International and a prominent food company Moy Park introduced a new PaperSeal™ Shape paperboard tray, delivering a significant plastic reduction for UK retailer Sainsbury’s.
• In March 2024, Novolex, through its brand Eco-Products, announced the launch of a variety of paper bags, sandwich wraps and other items to its GreenStripe® line of compostable products.
• In Aug 2024, Pactiv Evergreen Inc., launched innovative Recycleware® Reduced-Density Polypropylene (RDPP) meat trays.

Leading Suppliers of Foodservice Disposables in Europe

• GRAPHIC PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL, LLC
• HUHTAMÄKI OYJ.
• NOVOLEX HOLDINGS LLC
• SMURFIT WESTROCK PLC
• Berry Global Group, Inc.
• Duni Group Global
• DETMOLD GROUP
• Tekni-Plex Consumer Products
• Seda International Packaging Group
• Hosti GmbH
• Benders Paper Cups
• Printed Cup Company
• Dispo International
• Go-Pak Group
• Frugalpac Limited
• CEE Schisler Packaging Solutions

Top Segments Studied in the Europe Foodservice Disposables Market Report

By Capacity:

In terms of packaging type, the foodservice disposables market is divided into plates, trays, bowls, cups, clamshells and cutlery.

By Material:

Few of the important materials used for making foodservice disposables include plastic, paper & paperboard, wood, aluminum and others. Plastic material is further divided into polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polylactic acid and others.

By Sales Channel:

Some of sales channels in the foodservice disposables market include manufacturers (direct sales), brick and mortar store, distributors and online/e-commerce.

By End Use:

Several end users in the foodservice disposables market include commercial use, institutional use and household use. The commercial use segment in further divided into hotels & cafes, full service restaurants, quick service restaurants, venues & catering, mobile food vendors, bakery & patisserie. Also the institutional use segment is further sub-categorized into schools & colleges, offices, hospitals, railways and airport.

By Country:

Key countries of Europe such as UK, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, BENELUX, Nordics, Russia, Poland and Rest of Europe are covered.