Challenges to Overcome in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Growth: Analysis 2025-2033

Key Insights

The US single-use plastic bag market, valued at $26.96 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven primarily by the continued demand across various end-user industries. The food and beverage sector remains a significant contributor, with increasing reliance on convenient packaging solutions for takeout and grocery items. Growth in the e-commerce sector also fuels demand, particularly for protective packaging during shipping. The healthcare and pharmaceutical industry utilizes single-use plastic bags for sterile packaging and hygiene purposes, further bolstering market demand. While a CAGR of 2.72% indicates moderate growth, several factors influence the market trajectory. The increasing consumer awareness regarding environmental impact and the push towards sustainable alternatives present a significant restraint. However, innovations in biodegradable and compostable plastic bag materials are partially offsetting this concern. Market segmentation reveals that plastic remains the dominant material, owing to its cost-effectiveness and versatility, while paper and paperboard alternatives are gaining traction due to growing eco-consciousness. Regional variations exist, with regions like the Northeast and West potentially showing higher growth rates due to higher population density and stronger environmental regulations, leading to a push for sustainable alternatives. The competitive landscape is marked by both large multinational corporations and smaller regional players. Amcor Plc, Graphic Packaging International Inc., and Berry Global Inc. are key players, continuously innovating to meet evolving consumer demands and regulations. Looking ahead, the market's future growth will depend significantly on the balance between the need for convenient, affordable packaging and the increasing pressure for environmentally responsible alternatives.

The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued growth, albeit at a moderate pace. This projection accounts for the aforementioned drivers and restraints, including advancements in sustainable packaging materials and the influence of government regulations regarding plastic waste. Growth will likely be uneven across different segments and regions. The "Other Materials" segment, encompassing innovative bioplastics and recycled materials, is expected to witness the fastest growth rate. Further regional analysis will highlight the impact of specific state-level policies and consumer preferences. This dynamic interplay of factors contributes to a complex yet predictable trajectory for the US single-use plastic bag market over the next decade.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Report: 2019-2033

This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the US single-use plastic bags market, offering invaluable insights for stakeholders across the value chain. The study period covers 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033. The report leverages rigorous research methodologies to deliver accurate market sizing, segment-specific growth analysis, and competitive landscape assessments. Discover key trends, opportunities, and challenges impacting this dynamic market, empowering strategic decision-making and competitive advantage.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Structure & Competitive Landscape

The US single-use plastic bag market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with several large players dominating market share. The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) for 2024 is estimated at xx, indicating a moderately consolidated market. Innovation is driven by the need for sustainable alternatives and advancements in materials science, while regulatory pressures, particularly concerning plastic waste reduction, significantly impact market dynamics. Key product substitutes include reusable bags, paper bags, and compostable alternatives.

The market is segmented by end-user industry (Food, Beverage, Healthcare & Pharmaceutical, Personal Care, Other) and material (Paper & Paperboard, Plastics, Aluminum, Other). Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been moderate in recent years, with approximately xx deals recorded between 2019 and 2024, primarily focused on expanding market reach and technological capabilities.

• Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with an estimated HHI of xx in 2024.
• Innovation Drivers: Sustainable alternatives, material science advancements.
• Regulatory Impacts: Stringent regulations on plastic waste significantly influence market strategies.
• Product Substitutes: Reusable bags, paper bags, compostable alternatives.
• End-User Segmentation: Significant variations in demand across different end-user industries.
• M&A Trends: Moderate M&A activity, focused on expansion and technology acquisition.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Trends & Opportunities

The US single-use plastic bag market is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is fueled by several key factors. Market size is estimated at $xx Million in 2025 and is expected to reach $xx Million by 2033. Technological advancements, such as the development of biodegradable and compostable alternatives, are reshaping the market landscape. Consumer preferences are increasingly shifting towards environmentally friendly options, putting pressure on manufacturers to innovate and adapt. The competitive landscape is characterized by intense rivalry among established players and emerging startups, driving innovation and price competition. Market penetration rates vary significantly across different end-user segments and geographic regions.

Dominant Markets & Segments in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market

The Food and Beverage sector is the dominant end-user industry for single-use plastic bags, accounting for approximately xx% of total market value in 2024. The Plastics material segment holds the largest share within the material type segmentation, driven by its cost-effectiveness and versatility. The Northeast region of the United States exhibits the highest market share, driven by factors including high population density and robust consumer demand.

• Key Growth Drivers (Food & Beverage Segment):
  • High demand from supermarkets and restaurants.
  • Increasing packaged food consumption.
  • Extensive distribution networks.
• Key Growth Drivers (Plastics Segment):
  • Cost-effectiveness.
  • Versatility and ease of manufacturing.
  • Established supply chains.
• Key Growth Drivers (Northeast Region):
  • High population density.
  • Strong consumer spending.
  • Developed infrastructure.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Product Analysis

Product innovation in the US single-use plastic bag market is driven by the need for sustainability and improved functionality. Manufacturers are focusing on developing biodegradable, compostable, and recycled content bags to meet growing environmental concerns. Technological advancements include the use of advanced materials, such as oxo-biodegradable plastics and plant-based polymers, to enhance the performance and environmental profile of these bags. These innovations are aimed at improving product life cycle, reducing environmental impact, and offering enhanced convenience to consumers.

Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market

Key Drivers:

• Growing demand from various end-user industries.
• Increasing consumer convenience.
• Cost-effectiveness of plastic bags compared to alternatives.

Key Challenges and Restraints:

• Stringent environmental regulations targeting plastic waste, leading to increased manufacturing costs and potential market limitations.
• Growing consumer preference for sustainable alternatives, impacting market share.
• Fluctuations in raw material prices, potentially increasing production costs.

Growth Drivers in the US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market

Growth in the US single-use plastic bags market is primarily driven by the continued demand from various industries, including food and beverage, healthcare, and retail. Economic factors such as increasing disposable incomes also contribute to the growth. However, regulatory pressures related to environmental sustainability are presenting significant challenges.

Challenges Impacting US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Growth

The US single-use plastic bag market faces significant challenges, including stricter environmental regulations, leading to production cost increases and limitations on certain bag types. Fluctuating raw material prices and increased consumer preference for sustainable alternatives represent substantial barriers to market expansion. These factors pose a considerable threat to consistent market growth and the profitability of companies operating within this space.

Key Players Shaping the US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market

• Amcor Plc
• Snapsil Corporation
• Graphic Packaging International Inc
• Fuling Plastic USA Inc
• Georgia-Pacific LLC
• PPC Flexible Packaging LLC
• Pactiv LLC
• Novolex
• Berry Global Inc
• Dart Container Corporation

Significant US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Industry Milestones

• September 2022: Novolex invested USD 10 Million to expand its Indiana recycling facility, increasing capacity for plastic bag and PE film recycling to 28 million lbs (12,698 MT) annually.
• July 2022: Novolex launched a new stand for its Cutlerease single-use utensil dispenser, enhancing placement flexibility for food service businesses.

Future Outlook for US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market

The future of the US single-use plastic bag market is characterized by a complex interplay of growth catalysts and challenges. While demand continues from certain sectors, the increasing adoption of sustainable alternatives and stricter environmental regulations will fundamentally reshape the market. Opportunities exist for companies that can successfully innovate in sustainable materials and recycling technologies. Strategic investments in eco-friendly solutions and efficient recycling infrastructure will be critical for long-term success in this evolving market.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Segmentation

• 1. Material
  • 1.1. Paper and Paperboard
  • 1.2. Plastics
  • 1.3. Aluminium
  • 1.4. Other Materials
• 2. End-user Industry
  • 2.1. Food
  • 2.2. Beverage
  • 2.3. Healthcare and Pharmaceutical
  • 2.4. Personal Care
  • 2.5. Other End-user Industries

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Segmentation By Geography

• 1. North America
  • 1.1. United States
  • 1.2. Canada
  • 1.3. Mexico
• 2. South America
  • 2.1. Brazil
  • 2.2. Argentina
  • 2.3. Rest of South America
• 3. Europe
  • 3.1. United Kingdom
  • 3.2. Germany
  • 3.3. France
  • 3.4. Italy
  • 3.5. Spain
  • 3.6. Russia
  • 3.7. Benelux
  • 3.8. Nordics
  • 3.9. Rest of Europe
• 4. Middle East & Africa
  • 4.1. Turkey
  • 4.2. Israel
  • 4.3. GCC
  • 4.4. North Africa
  • 4.5. South Africa
  • 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
• 5. Asia Pacific
  • 5.1. China
  • 5.2. India
  • 5.3. Japan
  • 5.4. South Korea
  • 5.5. ASEAN
  • 5.6. Oceania
  • 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific