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 various end-user industries. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.72% from 2019 to 2024 indicates a consistent, albeit moderate, expansion. Key drivers include the convenience and affordability of plastic bags, particularly within the food and beverage sectors, and their widespread use in retail settings. However, growing environmental concerns surrounding plastic waste and increasing government regulations aimed at reducing plastic consumption pose significant restraints. The market is segmented by end-user industry (food, beverage, healthcare, personal care, and others) and material type (paper and paperboard, plastics, aluminum, and others). While plastic remains dominant, we expect to see a gradual shift towards more sustainable alternatives like paper and biodegradable plastics, fueled by consumer preference and regulatory pressure. This shift will influence market dynamics in the coming years, presenting opportunities for manufacturers of eco-friendly packaging solutions. The regional distribution across the United States (Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, Southwest, and West) likely mirrors overall population distribution and consumption patterns, with higher concentrations in densely populated areas.

The forecast period from 2025 to 2033 anticipates continued market expansion, albeit at a potentially moderated pace due to the aforementioned restraints. Companies such as Amcor Plc, Snapsil Corporation, and others are key players navigating this evolving landscape, focusing on innovation and diversification to meet shifting consumer demands and regulatory compliance. Strategic initiatives will include investing in recyclable or biodegradable plastic bag technologies and exploring alternative packaging materials. The success of these companies will be contingent upon their ability to balance cost-effectiveness with sustainability, thereby catering to both consumer and environmental concerns. The market's long-term trajectory will depend heavily on the implementation and effectiveness of policies designed to curb single-use plastic waste and encourage the adoption of environmentally sound alternatives.

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, dominant segments, product landscape, challenges, opportunities, and key players. The report covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on the forecast period 2025-2033 (Base Year: 2025, Estimated Year: 2025). The study examines the parent market of packaging materials and the child market of single-use plastic bags within the broader US consumer goods landscape. This report is crucial for industry professionals seeking to understand the market dynamics and future trends within the US single-use plastic bags sector. The market size is projected to reach xx million units by 2033.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Market Dynamics & Structure

The US single-use plastic bag market is characterized by moderate concentration, with several large players holding significant market share. Technological innovation is driven by the need for sustainable alternatives and improved performance characteristics. Stringent environmental regulations and growing consumer awareness are key factors shaping market dynamics. The market faces competition from reusable bags and alternative packaging materials, impacting adoption rates. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been relatively low in recent years, but strategic partnerships are becoming increasingly important.

• Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 10 players holding approximately xx% market share (2024).
• Technological Innovation: Focus on biodegradable and compostable materials, improved barrier properties, and efficient manufacturing processes.
• Regulatory Framework: Increasingly stringent regulations on plastic waste management and disposal are impacting market growth.
• Competitive Substitutes: Reusable bags, paper bags, and other sustainable packaging alternatives pose a significant threat.
• End-User Demographics: High consumption in food retail, grocery, and restaurants, and growing demand from e-commerce.
• M&A Trends: Low M&A activity in recent years, though strategic alliances and partnerships are more common.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Growth Trends & Insights

The US single-use plastic bag market witnessed a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024), driven by increased consumption from retail, food services, and e-commerce. Adoption rates remain high, particularly within food and beverage sectors. However, growth is anticipated to moderate due to regulatory pressures and the rise of sustainable alternatives. Technological disruptions, such as the development of biodegradable plastic, are expected to impact market growth. Consumer behavior shifts towards sustainable options and reduced plastic usage are significantly impacting market trajectory. Market penetration of biodegradable/compostable bags is currently at xx%, expected to reach xx% by 2033.

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

The food and beverage segment dominates the US single-use plastic bag market, followed by the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. California, Texas, and Florida are leading states in terms of consumption. Plastic remains the dominant material, although the market share of paper and paperboard is gradually increasing.

• By End-user Industry: Food & Beverage (xx million units), Healthcare & Pharmaceutical (xx million units), Personal Care (xx million units), Others (xx million units).
• By Material: Plastics (xx million units), Paper & Paperboard (xx million units), Aluminum (xx million units), Others (xx million units).
• Key Drivers: High consumption in food retail and rising e-commerce, favorable regulatory environment in certain regions.

US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market Product Landscape

The market offers a wide range of single-use plastic bags, varying in size, material, thickness, and features. Innovations focus on improving barrier properties, increasing durability, and incorporating sustainable materials. Many manufacturers are emphasizing enhanced recyclability and compostability as unique selling propositions, leveraging advanced material technologies.

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

Key Drivers: Increased retail sales, e-commerce growth, and the convenience provided by plastic bags drive market expansion.

Challenges: Growing environmental concerns, stringent regulations, and the rise of eco-friendly alternatives create significant hurdles, resulting in an estimated xx% reduction in market growth in the coming years. Supply chain disruptions and fluctuating raw material prices add to the challenges.

Emerging Opportunities in US Single-Use Plastic Bags Market

Growing demand for biodegradable and compostable plastic bags presents a significant opportunity. Targeting the e-commerce sector with specialized packaging solutions holds potential for expansion. Further development of innovative materials and sustainable manufacturing processes will be key to unlocking future growth.

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

Technological advancements, such as developing innovative sustainable materials and improved recycling technologies, are vital growth catalysts. Strategic partnerships between manufacturers and retailers can facilitate broader market adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. Expanding into untapped niche markets and exploring new applications for sustainable packaging can unlock long-term growth.

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 invests USD 10 million to expand its Indiana recycling facility, increasing its annual recycled material output to 28 million lbs.
• July 2022: Novolex launches a new stand for its Cutlerease utensil dispenser, enhancing its usability and market reach.

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

The US single-use plastic bag market is poised for moderate growth, driven by advancements in sustainable materials and technologies. Companies focusing on environmentally friendly alternatives and efficient recycling solutions are expected to gain a competitive edge. Strategic partnerships and market expansion into niche sectors present significant opportunities for future market leadership.

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