Key Insights

The US single-use plastic bag market, valued at $26.96 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by the continued demand across diverse sectors like food and beverage, healthcare, and personal care. A Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.72% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a consistent, albeit moderate, expansion. This growth is fueled by the convenience and affordability of plastic bags, particularly for consumer goods packaging and retail applications. However, increasing environmental concerns regarding plastic waste and stricter regulations aimed at reducing plastic consumption pose significant restraints. The market is segmented by material type (paper and paperboard, plastics, aluminum, and others) and end-user industry. The plastics segment currently dominates due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. The shift towards sustainable alternatives, including biodegradable and compostable bags, is gaining traction, though adoption rates vary across sectors. Regional variations exist, with higher consumption in densely populated areas like the Northeast and West. Major players, including Amcor Plc, Snapsil Corporation, and Graphic Packaging International Inc., are actively responding to evolving consumer preferences and regulatory changes through innovation in materials and manufacturing processes. The market's future trajectory will depend heavily on the balance between consumer demand, regulatory pressures, and the successful development and adoption of eco-friendly alternatives.

The growth in the US single-use plastic bag market is expected to continue, albeit at a measured pace, driven by factors such as increased consumption in the food and beverage sector, particularly quick-service restaurants and grocery stores. However, the gradual adoption of reusable bags and the increasing focus on sustainable packaging solutions are impacting the market. Growth within specific segments, like those utilizing biodegradable plastic alternatives or paper-based options, is likely to outpace the overall market average. Regional variations in growth will be influenced by differing levels of environmental regulation and consumer awareness. Market participants are adapting by focusing on innovation, including the development of recycled content plastic bags and exploring strategic partnerships within the recycling infrastructure. Analyzing the specific performance of various materials across different segments and regions will be critical to a deeper understanding of market trends and opportunities.

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

This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the US single-use plastic bags market, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. With a focus on market dynamics, growth drivers, and future trends, this report covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with a base year of 2025. The report uses data from 2019-2024 as a historical benchmark.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Structure & Innovation Trends

This section analyzes the competitive landscape of the US single-use plastic bags market, encompassing market concentration, innovation drivers, regulatory frameworks, substitute products, end-user demographics, and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities.

The market is characterized by a moderately consolidated structure with key players holding significant market share. While precise market share figures for individual companies are proprietary information within the full report, analysis reveals a concentration among the top 10 players, including 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, and Dart Container Corporation. M&A activity in the sector has been moderate over the past five years, with deal values ranging from USD xx Million to USD xx Million, primarily driven by strategic acquisitions aimed at expanding product portfolios and geographic reach. Innovation is driven by factors such as increasing environmental concerns leading to a push for biodegradable and compostable alternatives, along with advancements in material science and manufacturing technologies. Stringent regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning plastic waste reduction, significantly impact market dynamics, driving the adoption of sustainable solutions and influencing packaging choices. The increasing demand for convenience in various end-user industries fuels the market growth while driving the search for innovative and sustainable substitutes to single-use plastic bags. End-user demographics are diverse and influence market segment performance through changing consumption patterns.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Dynamics & Trends

This section delves into the key factors influencing the growth trajectory of the US single-use plastic bags market. The market exhibits a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is primarily driven by the robust demand from the food and beverage sector, coupled with the rising consumption of packaged goods across other end-user industries. Technological disruptions, particularly in materials science, are creating new opportunities for biodegradable and compostable bag alternatives, while consumer preferences are shifting towards more sustainable and eco-friendly options. The intense competitive landscape, characterized by both established players and emerging startups, fuels innovation and drives down prices. Market penetration of eco-friendly alternatives is gradually increasing, although traditional plastic bags still retain a significant share, particularly in segments less sensitive to environmental concerns. This section further explores the impact of fluctuating raw material prices, economic conditions, and evolving consumer behavior patterns on overall market growth.

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

This section identifies the leading regions and segments within the US single-use plastic bags market. The analysis considers both end-user industries and material types.

By End-user Industry:

• The Food and Beverage industry remains the dominant segment, owing to the high demand for packaging solutions for various food products.
• The Healthcare and Pharmaceutical sector shows significant growth driven by hygiene requirements and sterile packaging needs.
• Personal care products demonstrate stable growth, driven by consumer demand for packaged items.

By Material:

• Plastics continue to dominate the market due to their cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and durability.
• Paper and paperboard show moderate growth as consumers and businesses seek more sustainable alternatives.

The dominance of specific regions and segments is influenced by factors such as population density, economic activity, regulatory policies, and the prevalence of specific end-user industries. For example, densely populated urban areas generally exhibit higher demand for single-use plastic bags compared to rural regions.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Product Innovations

The US single-use plastic bags market witnesses ongoing innovation, with a focus on developing sustainable alternatives. Companies are actively exploring biodegradable and compostable materials, alongside improved recycling technologies and more efficient manufacturing processes. This drives the development of products with enhanced barrier properties, strength, and recyclability, improving market fit and expanding application possibilities while reducing environmental impact.

Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis

This report provides a detailed segmentation of the US single-use plastic bags market based on end-user industry (Food, Beverage, Healthcare and Pharmaceutical, Personal Care, Other End-user Industries) and material (Paper and Paperboard, Plastics, Aluminum, Other Materials). Each segment is analyzed individually, providing market size, growth projections, and competitive dynamics. The report examines the various market segments, projecting their growth over the forecast period.

Key Drivers of US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Growth

Several key factors propel the growth of the US single-use plastic bags market. These include: the continued expansion of the food and beverage sector, growing demand for convenient packaging in various end-user industries, and ongoing advancements in material science leading to more efficient and sustainable options. Furthermore, evolving consumer preferences towards convenient packaging contribute to market growth. However, increasing environmental concerns and the resulting regulatory pressures might impact market dynamics.

Challenges in the US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Sector

The US single-use plastic bags market faces significant challenges, notably stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing plastic waste, along with increasing costs of raw materials and fluctuations in supply chains. These factors create uncertainty in pricing and production timelines. Furthermore, the intensifying competition from sustainable alternatives poses a considerable hurdle for traditional plastic bag manufacturers. These challenges collectively impact profitability and sustainability in this market sector.

Emerging Opportunities in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market

Emerging opportunities exist in the development and adoption of biodegradable and compostable alternatives, catering to increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. The increasing focus on recycling and waste reduction presents further opportunities for companies offering innovative recycling solutions and technologies. Furthermore, new markets and expanding applications in various industries provide growth prospects for manufacturers capable of developing customized packaging solutions.

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 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 utensil dispenser, enhancing its usability and space-saving features in food service businesses.

Future Outlook for US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market

The future of the US single-use plastic bags market hinges on the balance between consumer demand for convenience and growing concerns over environmental sustainability. The continued innovation in sustainable materials and recycling technologies will shape market growth. Companies that adapt to these evolving trends and invest in environmentally conscious solutions are poised to succeed in the long term. The market anticipates a steady growth trajectory, fueled by ongoing demand in various sectors, with the market share steadily shifting towards sustainable alternatives.

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