by Freedonia Industry Studies
February 7, 2024
Cup users and manufacturers struggle to decide between paper and plastic in the midst of sustainability efforts, while new materials present intriguing growth opportunities and challenges
Cleveland OH, February 7, 2024 – The Freedonia Group, a division of Marketresearch.com, has released a report, US Cups & Lids, focused on new developments regarding the products and materials used in this market over the next decade. Traditional paper and plastic cups continue to vie for market share, with growing environmental concerns allowing unique materials such as aluminum and molded fiber to gain traction within the industry.
Plastic cups remain a popular choice for both foodservice providers and food manufacturers due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. However, a growing distaste for plastic packaging, especially foam drink cups, leaves many users seeking alternatives.
Paper cups also see wide use across various markets, especially as drink cups for both hot and cold beverages. Although, concerns surrounding paper cup recyclability continue to plague the market.According to lead analyst Mark Mesisklis: “Cups pose a unique problem for recyclers due to the diverse array of materials, coatings, and sizes employed in the manufacturing of such a ubiquitous packaging product. Effective cup recycling requires sophisticated infrastructure and considerable consumer awareness.”
The disposable cups and lids market is at a critical juncture where sustainability and innovation intersect. Though paper and plastic remain dominant forces in the market, they will face greater resistance going forward as the green movement persists and recyclers across the country debate whether to accept these products in their recycling streams.
New cups made of aluminum and molded fiber have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional plastic and paper. A growing number of sports venues, event holders, and restaurants are experimenting with these products in response to consumer demands for sustainable, recyclable cups. These products offer strong environmental profiles compared to traditional paper and plastic cups, owing to their greater recyclability and compostability.
However, challenges persist in the widespread adoption of alternatives despite growing interest. Aluminum cups, although infinitely recyclable, pose much higher price points than other materials. Similarly, molded fiber cups, while biodegradable and compostable, may face performance issues when used with certain beverage types, such as smoothies or hot coffee.
The new study discusses these trends but also provides highly granular data on specific products and materials used in disposable cups and lids to help industry participants identify opportunities in this highly challenging market.
About The Freedonia Group
The Freedonia Group, a division of MarketResearch.com, is a premier international business research company, providing clients with product analyses, market forecasts, industry trends, and market share information. From one-person consulting firms to global conglomerates, our analysts provide companies with unbiased, reliable industry market research and analysis to help them make important business decisions. The Freedonia Group’s brands also include Packaged Facts, a trusted provider of consumer market research on food & beverage, pet products and services, demographics, and financial services, and Simba Information, the leading authority for market intelligence and forecasts on the education and professional publishing industries. Find off-the-shelf studies at https://www.freedoniagroup.com/ or contact us for custom research: +1 440.842.2400.
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