Emerging Growth Patterns in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market

Key Insights

The US single-use plastic bag market, valued at $26.96 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.72% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The burgeoning food and beverage industry, coupled with the increasing demand for convenient packaging solutions in the healthcare and personal care sectors, significantly drives market expansion. While plastic bags offer affordability and convenience, environmental concerns related to plastic waste and increasing regulations aimed at reducing plastic pollution pose significant challenges. This necessitates innovative solutions, such as biodegradable and compostable alternatives, which are slowly gaining traction, thereby influencing market segmentation. The market is segmented by end-user industry (food, beverage, healthcare & pharmaceutical, personal care, other) and material type (paper & paperboard, plastics, aluminum, other). The dominance of plastic materials is expected to continue, though at a moderated rate due to sustainability initiatives. Regional variations exist within the US market, with higher consumption in densely populated regions like the Northeast and West Coast compared to the Midwest and South. Major players like Amcor Plc, Berry Global Inc, and Pactiv LLC are actively involved in product innovation and expansion strategies to maintain their market positions amidst changing regulatory landscapes and consumer preferences.

The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates a continued, albeit moderate, rise in market size due to persistent demand from key industries. However, the pace of growth may be influenced by the increasing adoption of sustainable alternatives and stricter environmental policies. Companies are investing in research and development to create more environmentally friendly options, which may lead to a shift in material composition within the market segments over the forecast period. Successful navigation of the market will require manufacturers to balance cost-effectiveness with sustainable practices and meet evolving consumer and regulatory demands. A proactive approach to addressing environmental concerns will likely be crucial for long-term market success.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)

This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the US single-use plastic bags market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional dominance, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base year. This report is essential for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers seeking a clear understanding of this dynamic market.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Dynamics & Structure

The US single-use plastic bag market is characterized by a moderately consolidated structure, with key players such as Amcor Plc, Snapsil Corporation, Graphic Packaging International Inc, and Novolex holding significant market share. The market is driven by technological innovations in material science, focusing on biodegradable and recyclable alternatives. Stringent regulatory frameworks regarding plastic waste management and growing environmental concerns are significantly impacting market dynamics. The rise of eco-conscious consumers is fueling demand for sustainable alternatives, creating opportunities for companies offering eco-friendly options. Meanwhile, competitive pressure from reusable bag alternatives and other packaging solutions remains a challenge. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity within the packaging sector is expected to continue, driving consolidation and shaping the competitive landscape. The market's growth is further influenced by end-user demographics, particularly within the food and beverage sector, where single-use plastic bags remain prevalent.

• Market Concentration: Moderately consolidated, with top 5 players holding xx% market share in 2024.
• Technological Innovation: Focus on biodegradable and recyclable materials; challenges in cost-effectiveness and scalability.
• Regulatory Framework: Increasingly stringent regulations driving demand for sustainable solutions.
• Competitive Substitutes: Reusable bags, paper bags, and other alternative packaging solutions pose competitive pressure.
• M&A Activity: xx major M&A deals in the packaging sector recorded between 2019-2024, indicating ongoing consolidation.
• End-user Demographics: Food and beverage sector remains the largest end-user segment.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Growth Trends & Insights

The US single-use plastic bags market experienced a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024). However, growth is projected to moderate during the forecast period (2025-2033), with a projected CAGR of xx%. This moderation reflects the increasing adoption of sustainable alternatives and stricter environmental regulations. Market size is estimated at $xx million in 2025 and is projected to reach $xx million by 2033. Technological disruptions, such as the development of compostable and biodegradable plastics, are significantly impacting the market. Furthermore, shifting consumer preferences towards eco-friendly products are driving demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Market penetration of biodegradable bags remains relatively low but is expected to increase steadily over the forecast period.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market

The food and beverage sector remains the dominant end-user industry for single-use plastic bags in the US, accounting for xx% of the market in 2024. Plastic remains the leading material type, capturing xx% market share, although the share of paper and paperboard is gradually increasing due to eco-consciousness. California and other states with stringent environmental regulations are witnessing accelerated adoption of sustainable alternatives, impacting regional growth.

• By End-user Industry: Food and beverage (largest segment), followed by healthcare and pharmaceutical, personal care and other end-user industries.
• By Material: Plastics (dominant material), followed by paper and paperboard, with a small but increasing market share for other materials.
• Key Regional Drivers: States with stricter environmental regulations are experiencing faster growth in sustainable alternatives.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Product Landscape

The US single-use plastic bag market offers a diverse range of products, including standard plastic bags, biodegradable bags, compostable bags, and oxo-biodegradable bags. Innovations focus on enhancing durability, recyclability, and biodegradability, aligning with growing environmental concerns. Key performance metrics include tensile strength, thickness, and biodegradation rate. Many companies are emphasizing the use of recycled content in their products and promoting their sustainability credentials to attract environmentally conscious consumers.

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

Key Drivers:

• Growing demand from the food and beverage industry.
• Convenience and cost-effectiveness compared to reusable bags.
• Technological advancements in biodegradable and compostable materials.

Challenges:

• Stringent environmental regulations and increasing bans on single-use plastics in many states.
• Growing consumer preference for eco-friendly alternatives.
• Fluctuations in raw material prices and supply chain disruptions.
• Competition from reusable bags and other sustainable packaging options.

Emerging Opportunities in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market

The market presents significant opportunities in the development and adoption of advanced biodegradable and compostable plastic alternatives. Furthermore, tapping into the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions in the healthcare and personal care sectors presents lucrative avenues for expansion. Focusing on lightweight designs to reduce material usage and improve recyclability can also help reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastic bags.

Growth Accelerators in the US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Industry

Long-term growth will be driven by technological advancements leading to more sustainable and cost-effective biodegradable options. Strategic partnerships between packaging companies and waste management firms will further accelerate market expansion. Effective marketing and public awareness campaigns promoting responsible disposal and recycling practices will also play a vital role.

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

Notable Milestones in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Sector

• September 2022: Novolex invested USD 10 million to expand its Indiana recycling facility, increasing its capacity to recycle plastic bags and PE films by 28 million lbs (12,698 MT) annually.
• July 2022: Novolex launched a new stand for its Cutlerease disposable utensil dispenser, improving its placement flexibility for food service businesses.

In-Depth US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Outlook

The US single-use plastic bags market is poised for continued growth, albeit at a moderated pace, driven by the increasing availability of sustainable alternatives and a focus on reducing the environmental footprint of single-use plastics. Strategic investments in R&D, sustainable material sourcing, and efficient recycling infrastructure will be critical for long-term success in this evolving market. Companies focusing on eco-friendly solutions and transparent sustainability practices are expected to capture a larger market share in the coming years.

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