Key Insights

The US single-use plastic bag market, valued at $26.96 million in 2025, is projected to experience moderate growth with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.72% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by the continued convenience and low cost of plastic bags across various sectors, including food and beverage, healthcare, and personal care. The rising demand for efficient packaging solutions in the food and beverage industry, particularly for grocery stores and restaurants, significantly contributes to market expansion. However, increasing environmental concerns regarding plastic waste and stringent government regulations aimed at reducing plastic consumption are key restraints. The shift towards sustainable alternatives like biodegradable and compostable bags, coupled with consumer preference for eco-friendly options, is presenting challenges to the traditional plastic bag market. The market is segmented by material type (paper and paperboard, plastics, aluminum, and others) and end-user industry. The plastic segment currently holds the largest market share due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility, while the paper and paperboard segment is experiencing growth due to increasing environmental awareness and governmental initiatives promoting sustainable alternatives. Regional analysis shows significant market presence across the United States, with variations in consumption patterns across the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and West regions, influenced by population density, consumer habits, and local regulations. The competitive landscape is characterized by both large multinational corporations and smaller regional players, with continuous innovation and mergers and acquisitions shaping the market dynamics.

The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued market growth, albeit at a moderate pace, as the industry adapts to the evolving regulatory environment and consumer demands. Companies are increasingly investing in research and development to create more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging solutions, seeking to balance profitability with environmental responsibility. The growth will likely be concentrated in regions with less stringent regulations and a higher demand for cost-effective packaging solutions in the short term. However, long-term growth will be heavily influenced by the success of companies in transitioning towards sustainable alternatives and adapting to the growing emphasis on circular economy principles. Further analysis of consumer behavior and the impact of specific environmental policies will be crucial in refining future market projections.

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, covering market size, segmentation, growth drivers, challenges, and opportunities from 2019 to 2033. The report utilizes data from the historical period (2019-2024), the base year (2025), and the estimated year (2025) to forecast market trends until 2033. This crucial resource is designed for industry stakeholders, investors, and businesses seeking to understand and navigate this dynamic market.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Concentration & Innovation

The US single-use plastic bag market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with a handful of major players commanding significant market share. Amcor Plc, Berry Global Inc, Novolex, and Pactiv LLC are among the leading companies, leveraging their established distribution networks and brand recognition. However, the market also features several smaller players specializing in niche segments or regional markets. Market share fluctuates based on innovation, pricing strategies, and regulatory changes. Recent mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been moderate, primarily focused on enhancing production capabilities or expanding geographic reach. Deal values have ranged from xx Million to xx Million USD in recent years.

Innovation within the industry is driven by the need to address environmental concerns and meet evolving consumer preferences. This includes a focus on developing biodegradable and compostable alternatives, improving recycling infrastructure, and introducing more sustainable packaging designs. Stringent government regulations regarding plastic waste management are pushing innovation towards eco-friendly materials and recycling solutions. The rise of e-commerce and its associated packaging demands further contributes to the need for efficient and sustainable packaging solutions. Product substitutes, such as reusable bags and alternative packaging materials (e.g., paper bags), exert competitive pressure, compelling manufacturers to invest in product differentiation and sustainability initiatives. End-user trends favor convenience and affordability, impacting the demand for various bag types and materials.

• Key Metrics: Market concentration (HHI) – xx, Average M&A deal value – xx Million USD.
• Innovation Drivers: Sustainability concerns, government regulations, consumer demand for eco-friendly options, e-commerce growth.
• Competitive Dynamics: Product differentiation, pricing strategies, M&A activity, substitute products.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Industry Trends & Insights

The US single-use plastic bag market is poised for significant evolution, with projections indicating a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 4.5% to 6% during the forecast period of 2025-2033. This growth trajectory is underpinned by the persistent demand from a diverse array of end-user sectors, with the food and beverage industry remaining a dominant consumer. However, the market is navigating a dynamic landscape shaped by escalating environmental consciousness among consumers and increasingly stringent governmental regulations aimed at mitigating plastic waste. In response, the market is witnessing a notable surge in the adoption of biodegradable and compostable bag alternatives. This shift is largely attributed to a growing consumer preference for sustainable options and the supportive policy frameworks being implemented by various governmental bodies. Furthermore, technological innovations, particularly in material science and advanced recycling technologies, are acting as catalysts, reshaping the industry’s operational paradigms and product offerings. The competitive arena is characterized by its intensity, compelling manufacturers to relentlessly pursue optimizations in production processes, enhance their product portfolios with an emphasis on sustainability, and strategically defend their market share amidst the pervasive pressure to embrace environmentally responsible practices. This pronounced shift in consumer preferences towards eco-friendly choices necessitates continuous innovation in material composition and the refinement of recycling methodologies, which will undoubtedly manifest in evolving market shares and an intensified focus on the development and promotion of sustainable packaging solutions.

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

The food and beverage industry represents the largest segment in the US single-use plastic bag market, driven by high consumption levels and extensive packaging needs. The plastics segment dominates the market by material type, due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. However, the paper and paperboard segment is showing significant growth driven by increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

• By End-user Industry:

  • Food and Beverage: High volume consumption, reliance on single-use packaging.
  • Healthcare and Pharmaceutical: Sterility requirements, need for protective packaging.
  • Personal Care: Packaging for cosmetics, toiletries, and hygiene products.
  • Other End-user Industries: Retail, industrial, and various other sectors.

• By Material:

  • Plastics: Cost-effective, versatile, readily available.
  • Paper and Paperboard: Growing demand due to eco-friendly attributes.
  • Aluminum: Niche applications, where high barrier properties are required.
  • Other Materials: Bioplastics, compostable materials, etc., gaining market share.

Key Drivers of Segment Dominance:

• Food & Beverage: High consumption volumes, established infrastructure, convenience.
• Plastics: Low cost, high durability, readily available manufacturing infrastructure.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Product Developments

Recent product innovations focus on improving the sustainability of single-use plastic bags. This includes developing bags from recycled materials, incorporating biodegradable or compostable polymers, and designing bags for easier recycling. Several companies are introducing lightweight and thinner designs to reduce material usage and lower environmental impact. These innovations are crucial for adapting to stricter environmental regulations and meeting growing consumer demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis

This comprehensive report meticulously segments the US single-use plastic bag market across key categories. The end-user industry segmentation includes: Food, Beverage, Healthcare and Pharmaceutical, Personal Care, and Other End-user Industries. Concurrently, the material type segmentation encompasses: Paper and Paperboard, Plastics, Aluminium, and Other Materials. For each identified segment, the report provides an in-depth analysis derived from historical data, current market valuations, projected growth trajectories, and a thorough examination of competitive dynamics. The report further offers critical insights into the principal drivers and restraining factors within each segment, alongside identifying lucrative opportunities for market entry and strategic expansion. It is noteworthy that growth projections exhibit considerable variance across segments, with the paper and paperboard segment anticipated to demonstrate accelerated growth, largely propelled by the escalating demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging alternatives.

Key Drivers of US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Growth

The robust growth of the US single-use plastic bag market is principally fueled by several interconnected factors. Paramount among these is the sustained and increasing demand originating from the food and beverage industry. The burgeoning e-commerce sector also plays a significant role, as it inherently necessitates a greater volume of packaging solutions, including plastic bags. Furthermore, the continuous expansion in the production of diverse consumer goods directly correlates with an elevated requirement for packaging. Complementing these demand-side drivers are proactive government initiatives that actively promote the adoption of sustainable packaging solutions. These initiatives are proving instrumental in stimulating innovation within the realm of biodegradable and recyclable materials. Concurrently, significant advancements in material science and sophisticated manufacturing processes are leading to the development of plastic bags that are not only more efficient in their production but also more cost-effective for manufacturers and end-users alike.

Challenges in the US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Sector

The industry faces considerable challenges, including increasing pressure to reduce plastic waste through stricter regulations and bans, fluctuations in raw material prices impacting profitability, and intensifying competition from eco-friendly alternatives such as reusable bags and compostable packaging. Supply chain disruptions and logistic challenges also impact operations and overall cost management. These factors pose substantial hurdles to market growth, especially for manufacturers reliant on conventional plastic materials.

Emerging Opportunities in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market

The market presents substantial opportunities for businesses that focus on sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. The growing demand for biodegradable and compostable bags, coupled with technological advancements in recycling processes, opens avenues for product innovation. Furthermore, expansion into niche segments like specialized packaging for pharmaceuticals and healthcare products offers potential for growth. Collaboration with waste management companies and exploring new recycling technologies is crucial for capturing emerging market opportunities.

Leading Players in 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

Key Developments in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Industry

• September 2022: Novolex bolstered its commitment to sustainability by investing USD 10 Million to expand its Indiana recycling facility. This strategic expansion significantly increased its capacity to recycle plastic bags and polyethylene (PE) films, enabling the processing of an additional 28 million pounds (approximately 12,698 metric tons) annually.
• July 2022: Novolex introduced an innovative new stand for its Cutlerease single-use utensil dispenser. This enhancement was specifically designed to improve usability and convenience for businesses operating within the food service sector.

Strategic Outlook for US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market

The future trajectory of the US single-use plastic bag market is intrinsically linked to the widespread adoption of sustainable manufacturing practices and the continuous integration of technological advancements. Companies that proactively focus on the development of eco-friendly alternatives and actively contribute to the enhancement of recycling infrastructure are strategically positioned to capture a substantial share of the evolving market. The seamless integration of cutting-edge technologies and the optimization of supply chain efficiencies are deemed indispensable for achieving long-term market success. The market is widely anticipated to experience substantial growth, driven by persistent innovation in sustainable packaging solutions. This innovation will be crucial in addressing the escalating global concerns surrounding environmental sustainability and in meeting the burgeoning consumer preference for ethically and environmentally conscious product choices.

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