The disposable tableware market - United Kingdom (2024)

1.2 The global market

The global disposable tableware market continues to grow. It reached a value of $**.** billion in **** , with projected growth at a compound annual growth rate(***) of *.** percent until ****, when it is expected to hit $**.** billion. This growth is fueled by several factors, including the rise of busy lifestyles that favor the use of disposable tableware for its convenience, increasing urbanization, and the preference for solutions that reduce the time spent on cleaning. In addition, demand for environmentally friendly and biodegradable materials is driving manufacturers to innovate and offer sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic tableware. [***]

Disposable Tableware Market Size World, ****-****, in USD Billion Mordor Intelligence

The global market for compostable disposable tableware is growing rapidly, driven by increasing environmental awareness and demand for sustainable solutions. In ****, the value of this market was estimated at USD **.* billion, with forecasts indicating a compound annual growth rate(***) of *.* percent between **** and ****, reaching approximately USD **.* billion by ****.

Compostable Tableware Market Size World, ****-****, in USD Billion GMI

1.3 The local market

The disposable tableware market in the UK is valued at $***.** million in **** and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate(***) of *.* percent during the forecast period. This growth is mainly fueled by the growing popularity of outdoor dining, driven by cultural trends such as summer picnics, vibrant street food markets, and the widespread appeal of pub gardens. These contexts highlight the importance of convenience and portability, significantly increasing the demand for disposable tableware.

The growing focus on sustainability is also influencing the market, with consumers and businesses seeking eco-friendly solutions such as biodegradable and compostable tableware, in line with environmental regulations and societal preferences. In addition, the UK's vibrant hospitality and events sector, which includes music festivals, outdoor gatherings, and sporting events, further contributes to the demand for disposable tableware, which is useful for ease of handling and cleaning.

Another key factor is the boom in delivery and takeaway services, which has seen significant growth in recent years due to changing consumer habits and the expansion of online food delivery platforms. Companies in the UK are increasingly adopting innovative and sustainable solutions to meet this growing market segment, creating opportunities for innovations in materials and designs.

Market value ...

1.4 Import - Export

For the analysis of U.K. foreign trade, the following HS Commodity Codes, which identify specific product categories, will be examined: code ****, which relates to tableware and wooden tableware or kitchenware, and code ******, which includes tableware and kitchenware made of plastic.

From **** to ****, the value of wood tableware imports to the UK grew significantly by ** percent, reflecting an increase in demand for these products, likely linked to an increased focus on sustainable materials. However, this trend has reversed, with a gradual decline of ** percent by ****, a sign of a slowdown in demand or possible changes in international sourcing dynamics. On the export side, the value has remained significantly lower than that of imports, highlighting a dependence on the foreign market to meet domestic needs. In addition, exports experienced a gradual decline of **.* percent, indicating a loss of competitiveness or a downsizing of production destined for foreign markets.

Exports, imports, and coverage rate of tableware and kitchenware made of wood UK, ****-****, USD million UNComtrade

The value of wood tableware exports from the UK shows a significant concentration toward a few key markets. The United States is the main destination, with a share of **.** percent. This is followed byIreland with **.** percent, France ...

1.5 The Russian-Ukrainian conflict

The Russian-Ukrainian conflict, which erupted on February **, ****, has generated significant and lasting impacts on the disposable tableware market in the United Kingdom. This sector, already sensitive to fluctuations in raw material and energy costs, has faced additional challenges due to the geopolitical and commercial consequences of the conflict. Restrictions imposed by the international community, including economic sanctions against Russia and the redefinition of global trade routes, have profoundly affected the supply chain, making it less efficient and more expensive.

In particular, sanctions have complicated access to key resources from Russia, a major exporter of key raw materials for the production of disposable packaging and tableware, such as aluminum and plastic. In parallel, the conflict has affected the logistics sector, increasing transportation costs and causing significant delays in deliveries. The reorganization of supply routes, necessary to avoid conflict-affected territories, has introduced inefficiencies and increased pressure on global transportation systems.

These factors exacerbated an already complex situation, characterized by a general increase in energy costs due to restrictions in the supply of natural gas and oil, resources of which Russia is one of the world's largest producers. The combined effect of these dynamics has directly affected the production costs of disposable tableware, making ...

2.1 The question

The average weekly expenditure of all households for the kitchen disposables category shows a stable trend over the period analyzed. The data show a value of £*.** in the first two surveys, followed by a slight increase to £*.** in subsequent surveys. This trend suggests marginal growth in average weekly household expenditure on kitchen disposables, which could be attributed to factors such as price increases, a change in purchase frequency, or changes in consumption habits.

Average weekly expenditure all house- holds (***) UK, ****-****, £ ONS

When analyzing demand in the disposable tableware market, it is essential to consider three main indicators: the number of canteens, the number of catering services, and the number of restaurants over the past five years. Indeed, these sectors account for a significant part of the demand for disposable tableware, as these items are frequently used for reasons of convenience, hygiene and logistical management.

An analysis of the number of active businesses in the 'Restaurants and mobile food service activities' sector in the UK shows a steady growth from **** to ****. Over this period, the sector has seen a significant increase of +**.* percent, demonstrating the strategic importance of this market for other related sectors, such as disposable tableware. In fact, the ...

2.2 Demand drivers

The demand for disposable tableware in the UK is influenced by a combination of factors beyond ecological considerations. One of the main drivers is the restaurant industry, which includes restaurants, cafes, and catering services. These businesses require practical and hygienic solutions for serving customers, and disposable tableware offers a convenient option that eliminates the need for washing and reduces operational costs. The growing popularity of take-out food and home delivery has further increased the use of disposable tableware, offering convenience to both consumers and food service operators. [***]

Outdoor events such as festivals, picnics, and street food markets have contributed to the increased demand for disposable tableware, as they facilitate waste management and reduce the need for cleanup. These events require practical solutions for serving food and beverages to large numbers of people, and disposable tableware offers a convenient option that facilitates logistics and cleanup. Consumer habits of busy lifestyles and the search for quick solutions have led to a preference for disposable products that simplify meal preparation and consumption. Increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes have contributed to this trend, with consumers seeking practical solutions to fit their busy lifestyles. The focus on hygiene, accentuated by the COVID-** pandemic, has reinforced ...

2.3 Household goods and services: a significant expense

Average weekly household spending on Household Goods and Services, analyzed through the COICOP classification from **** to ****, shows an overall fluctuating trend, but with one significant finding: in ****, there is a ** percent decrease compared to ****. This trend reflects changes in household spending priorities, influenced by economic, cultural and environmental factors.

In the context of the disposable tableware market, the reduction in overall spending on household-related goods could be read in several ways. On the one hand, growing environmental awareness and European regulations encouraging the reduction of single-use plastic have probably decreased the purchase of traditional disposable tableware. On the other, there may have been an increase in demand for environmentally friendly alternatives, such as compostable or biodegradable tableware, which fit into a different price range and may not be fully captured in the aggregate Household Goods and Services data. The decline in overall spending also suggests that households have adopted more durable or practical solutions that reduce dependence on single-use products, choosing goods that offer better value for money or are reusable. However, it is important to consider that the COVID-** pandemic momentarily reversed this trend between **** and ****, when the use of disposable tableware increased for hygiene reasons, and then returned to ...

2.4 Online interest

Interest in disposable cutlery in the UK increased significantly between **** and ****. After a period of low stability between **** and early ****, with values between * and **, there is a sudden growth starting in March ****, reaching a peak of **.** in November ****. This represents a ****% increase from the initial value of *.* in November ****.

This increase is related to new regulations against single-use plastics, the growth of takeout food, an increase in public events, and campaigns promoting sustainable materials.

Online interest in the topic: disposable cutlery UK, ****-****, google trends index Google trends

Interest in disposable cutlery is highest in England, with a top score of ***, followed by Scotland and Northern Ireland, both with **, and finally Wales at **.

3.1 The market structure

In order to understand the market size of the "Manufacture of Cutlery" sector, it is crucial to analyze the activity status of enterprises operating in this field during the period between **** and ****. The data show that the sector has been stable, yet has recorded significant growth of ** percent over the four-year period. This figure is particularly relevant because it also includes the value of disposable cutlery, in addition to traditional cutlery, and provides a more complete picture of overall production.

Number of VAT and/or PAYE-registered enterprises (***) UK, ****-****, number of enterprises ONS

The "Manufacture of cutlery" sector (***) leading. The East Midlands, West Midlands, and East each have * businesses, while all other regions report none, highlighting a concentrated regional presence.

3.2 Value Chain

The value chain of the disposable tableware market in the United Kingdom has undergone significant transformations, especially after the ban imposed on single-use plastics from October *, ****.[***]

Sourcing of raw materials: Paper and cardboard: derived from sustainably managed forests or recycled materials. Wood and bamboo: droven from certified crops that ensure environmental sustainability. Bioplastics: droduced from renewable resources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. Manufacturing: companies transform these raw materials into disposable tableware through processes that meet environmental and food safety standards. Distribution: finished products are distributed to retailers, restaurants, caterers and other retail outlets. Consumption: consumers use disposable tableware in various contexts, such as events, take-out catering, and other occasions that require convenience. Waste management: after use, biodegradable tableware can be disposed of through industrial or household composting, reducing environmental impact compared to traditional plastics.

3.3 Main actors

In the United Kingdom, several manufacturers have specialized in making disposable tableware using alternative materials to plastic, such as paper, wood, and compostable bioplastics. Here are some of the major players in the industry:

Vegware: founded in **** in Edinburgh, Vegware produces compostable disposable tableware and packaging made from plant-based materials. Their products are designed to be composted along with food waste, promoting a circular economy. Biopac UK Ltd: specializing in environmentally friendly packaging solutions, Biopac offers a range of biodegradable and compostable disposable tableware, including plates, cutlery and cups made from materials such as sugarcane pulp and cornstarch. London Bio Packaging: provides stenibles, including compostable plates and cutlery, using materials such as PLA (***) and sugarcane pulp. The company is committed to reducing the environmental impact of single-use products. Planglow: offers a range of food pros, including environmentally friendly packaging and disposable tableware. Their compostable plates and cutlery are made from sustainable materials, such as sugarcane pulp. Go-Pak UK: manufactures and supplies stegradables, including plates and cutlery made from wood and bamboo. The company focuses on sustainability and reducing plastic use in the restaurant industry.

3.4 The Bio-based and Biodegradable Industries Association (BBIA)

The Bio-based and Biodegradable Industries Association (***) plays a crucial role in the disposable tableware market in the UK, promoting the adoption of bio-based, biodegradable and compostable materials. Founded in ****, the BBIA represents industries involved in sustainable materials, aiming to reduce dependence on fossil resources and foster a circular economy. BBIA actively works with the UK government and local authorities to develop regulations that encourage the adoption of sustainable single-use tableware, helping to implement regulations banning the use of single-use plastics and promoting viable green alternatives. At the same time, it provides advice and resources to companies interested in developing or adopting biodegradable tableware, organizing workshops, seminars and offering guidelines to facilitate the transition to more sustainable solutions. To raise awareness about the environmental benefits of biodegradable tableware, BBIA conducts educational campaigns and collaborates with institutions and nongovernmental organizations, encouraging sustainable practices especially in the catering and events sector. It also supports research projects aimed at improving the characteristics of bio-based and biodegradable materials, making them more competitive with traditional alternatives, facilitating cooperation between universities, research centers and industries to promote innovations in sustainable disposable tableware.[***]

Impact on the disposable tableware market

Thanks to BBIA's action, the UK disposable tableware market has ...

4.1 The Offering

In the UK disposable tableware market, segmentation based on alternative materials to traditional plastic is critical to understanding current dynamics and consumer preferences.

4.2 The prices

The following is an overview of pricing:

Prices are indicative and may vary depending on the supplier, quantities purchased, and market conditions.

The Consumer Price Index (***) shows significant fluctuation during the period from October **** to October ****. The annual average recorded is ***.*, with the highest value of ***.* observed in October **** and the lowest of ***.* in September ****.

In detail, after the initial peak in October ****(***), the value gradually falls to ***.* in February ****. This trend shows a fluctuating price trend, probably influenced by seasonal factors and changes in demand. The decline in the summer months could reflect a decrease in consumer spending.

Consumer price (***) UK, ****-****, £ ONS

The Consumer Price Index (***), the CPI started to rise again, reaching ***.* in ****.

These figures reflect an overall increase in the price of traditional table and household items, attributable to factors such as rising production costs, demand for higher quality products, and a growing focus on sustainable materials. These dynamics also relate to the disposable tableware market, particularly with the introduction of regulations favoring environmentally friendly and biodegradable alternatives. Indeed, the shift from disposable items to more durable and sustainable solutions may have contributed to the growth in demand for glass and ceramics, reflected in steadily rising CPI ...

4.3 New supply trends

The disposable tableware market in the United Kingdom is experiencing a significant evolution in design and functionality, driven by growing consumer demand for products that combine practicality and aesthetics. This shift reflects more sophisticated consumer behavior, which is seeking solutions that are not only utilitarian but also enhance the dining experience. Here are some trends that highlight how innovation is redefining the industry:

Personalization and personality: consumers are showing a growing preference for customizable disposable tableware that can be adapted to specific events, themes or personal tastes. This trend is particularly evident in the catering and event sectors, where the ability to create unique designs, colors and patterns increases product appeal. New digital printing technologies enable manufacturers to offer customized solutions even for small quantities, making customization more affordable. Premium aesthetics: disposable tableware is gradually moving away from simple, utilitarian designs to embrace more sophisticated aesthetics. Products now mimic the look and feel of traditional dinnerware, using high-quality finishes and elegant designs. This includes details such as metallic accents, intricate patterns, and textures reminiscent of ceramic or glass, offering a more refined dining experience while maintaining the practicality of disposability. Improved ergonomics and functionality: in addition to aesthetics, functionality remains a ...

5.1 Rules and regulations

The United Kingdom has implemented specific regulations to ban the supply and sale of certain single-use plastic items, with the aim of reducing plastic pollution and promoting environmental sustainability.

Regulatory framework:

The ban was implemented through regulations called"The Environmental Protection (***) Regulations ****." This regulation prohibits the supply, sale and distribution of specific single-use plastic items, including:

Cutlery: forks, knives, spoons and chopsticks. Plates: including single-use plastic plates. Expanded polystyrene food and beverage containers: such as cups and take-out food containers.

The regulation took effect on October *, **** and applies to all suppliers, including retailers, restaurants, bars, and catering services in England.

Implementation of the ban:

Scope: The ban applies to all suppliers who can no longer supply single-use plastic tableware to customers. Materials Affected: The legislation specifically targets single-use plastic items, with the aim of reducing the use of non-biodegradable materials and promoting sustainable alternatives. Penalties: Violations of the ban may result in fines and other corrective measures, depending on the severity of the violation and the specific provisions of the applicable regulations.

Alternatives promoted:

In response to the ban, companies are encouraged to use reusable tableware or tableware made from biodegradable materials, such as paper, wood, or compostable bioplastics, to reduce ...

5.2 Bonuses and Incentives

The UK has implemented several initiatives to incentivize companies that produce products from biodegradable materials, promoting innovation and sustainability in the manufacturing sector.

Funding and support programs:

Government investment: in November ****, the UK government announced an investment of £*.* billion to support UK manufacturing, with £*** million earmarked specifically for the growth of green industries. Bioinnovation Program: UK Research and Innovation (***) has allocated £**.* million for bioinnovation projects, aimed at developing sustainable biomanufacturing solutions in various sectors. Smart Sustainable Plastic Packaging Challenge: Part of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, this program offers up to £** million for projects that aim to reduce plastic use through the adoption of sustainable and biodegradable materials. [***]