Discover your next big idea at PACK EXPO Las Vegas this September
Experience a breakthrough in packaging & processing and transform your business with solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries.
REGISTER NOW & SAVE

Foodservice packaging industry growing, despite challenges

A survey of members of the foodservice packaging value chain reveals growth and optimism, but challenges persist, particularly around environmental issues.

In 2018, nearly two thirds of foodservice packaging manufacturers and suppliers experienced growth in volume.
In 2018, nearly two thirds of foodservice packaging manufacturers and suppliers experienced growth in volume.

Every year, the Foodservice Packaging Institute (FPI) compiles the State of the Industry Report, based on surveys of both FPI members and non-members, representing the entire foodservice packaging value chain. According to its recently released 2019 report, nearly two thirds of foodservice packaging manufacturers and suppliers surveyed experienced growth in volume, while more than 45% reported profit growth in 2018. In addition, this year, 76% of the industry expect volume expansion, and 67% expect profit growth. Foodservice operators who responded also saw increased sales and were overwhelmingly optimistic that this trend would continue throughout 2019.

In another positive sign for the industry, more than 60% of the North American manufacturers reported another year of corporate expansion plans through construction of new facilities, expansion of current facilities, and mergers and acquisitions. Similar to previous years, more than 75% of North American converters also plan to purchase machinery in 2019.

The report also notes that respondents overwhelmingly view the fast casual sector as the greatest area for market expansion. This is due to the increased number of fast casual options, quality food offerings, and value to their customers. Areas such as supermarket/grocery stores and delivery services are also noted as opportunities for market expansion because of the popularity of being able to grab products on the go or have them delivered delivered. New this year, respondents also view convenience stores as an area of expansion as they try to compete with quick-serve restaurants and become an eating destination.

North American converter and supplier respondents once again have varied opinions on the top challenges facing the industry. Overall, environmental issues took center stage, showing up along with traditional business issues, like labor and government legislation/regulation. The results highlighted five common challenges facing the industry (ordered from most to least important):

1. Public perception of packaging or foodservice packaging as “waste”

2. Lack of qualified labor

3. Recovery/end-of-life options for foodservice packaging

4. Increasing government legislation/regulation

5. Environmental activism

Annual Outlook Report: Automation & Robotics
What's in store for CPGs in 2025 and beyond? <i>Packaging World</i> editors explore the survey responses from 118 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG <i>Packaging World</i> readers for its new Annual Outlook Report.
Download
Annual Outlook Report: Automation & Robotics
2024 PACK EXPO Innovations Reports
Exclusive access: Packaging World editor-curated reports revealing PACK EXPO's most groundbreaking technologies across food, healthcare, and machinery sectors. Each report features truly innovative solutions selected from hundreds of exhibitors by our expert team. Transform your operations with just one click.
Access Now
2024 PACK EXPO Innovations Reports