Food Tray Market Report 2025 (Global Edition)

Global Food Tray Market Report 2025 Market Size Split by Material Type (Plastic, Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Others (HIPS, HDPE, etc.), Paper & Paperboard, Aluminium), by Tra...

Food Tray Market Report Description

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How 2025 Tariffs Are Reshaping the Consumer Goods Industry

In 2025, the global trade landscape has shifted dramatically following the U.S. introduction of sweeping tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration. These "Liberation Day Tariffs," launched in April, aim to reduce trade deficits and boost domestic manufacturing. Tariffs range from 10% on imports from countries like the UK and Australia to 46% on Vietnamese goods, with a blanket 34% tariff on many Chinese imports and 25% on all steel, aluminum, and auto parts. This policy heavily impacts the consumer goods sector apparel, appliances, packaged foods, and personal care products due to their deep reliance on global supply chains, especially in Asia. U.S.–China trade tensions have intensified, with reciprocal tariffs reaching up to 145% on U.S. goods and 125% on Chinese exports, while China’s trade surplus with the U.S. hit USD 102.6 billion in March 2025. In response, the EU and Canada have implemented retaliatory measures, signaling a broader shift toward protectionism.

The consumer goods industry is feeling immediate effects: production costs are rising, sourcing is delayed, and inflation pressures are mounting. Apparel and footwear now face 25% tariffs, prompting brands to seek nearshoring options or raise prices. Household appliances incur 20% tariffs, complicating inventory and procurement strategies. Packaged foods and beverages are hit with 10–15% tariffs, impacting contracts and leading to supplier diversification and product reformulation. Personal care firms face higher costs for imported ingredients and packaging, leading to local sourcing efforts and delays in new product launches. Meanwhile, electronics, though temporarily exempt, are preparing for possible disruptions by diversifying suppliers and increasing inventories.

China remains the backbone of U.S. consumer goods sourcing, accounting for a large portion of imports either directly or through upstream components. This makes tariffs on Chinese goods especially disruptive. The rising input costs 15–30% in many categories combined with seasonal pressures and tight timelines, are causing delays and increased costs. Smaller brands, in particular, are struggling due to limited capital and reduced supplier leverage. Many are being forced to increase prices, cut product variety, or compromise on quality.

Market research is now critical to navigating this volatile environment. It supports supplier mapping and risk assessment, helping brands identify alternative sourcing countries with stable regulations and quality control. It also aids in cost and margin analysis, guiding decisions on pricing and sourcing changes. Optimization of product design and materials through research allows companies to reduce costs while maintaining consumer expectations. Additionally, research helps assess consumer price sensitivity, enabling strategic repositioning. Tracking regulatory changes and running scenario planning models allow firms to anticipate and adapt to future trade shifts.

To cope, companies are restructuring their global sourcing models. Major brands like Nike and IKEA are expanding operations in Vietnam, India, and Mexico, while embracing “in-market for market” strategies to reduce exposure to tariffs and logistics risks. Many are adopting AI-driven demand forecasting and automated procurement, and pushing suppliers for transparency. Product redesign and SKU rationalization are also common. The most successful firms are those using data-driven insights, operational flexibility, and strategic supplier partnerships to adapt not just survive in this new era of global trade.

Food Tray Market Insights Video

Competitive Landscape of the Food Tray Market

The food tray industry is highly competitive, with several companies vying for consumers' attention. Food tray makers are always innovating to deliver trays with better functionality, robustness, and visual appeal. Furthermore, major rivals try to set themselves apart with distinctive designs, eco-friendly materials, and customization options to fulfill a wide range of consumer needs and preferences. With multiple local and regional competitors, the food tray market is highly fragmented and competitive worldwide. Prominent producers of food trays utilize various promotional strategies, including joint ventures, acquisitions, growth, and alliances. Leading food tray producers prioritize the launch of new products as a strategic means of expanding their consumer base. These processes have led to the introduction of better plastic trays.

April 2023: Huhtamaki's flexible packaging products include innovative mono-material technology. This creative and eco-friendly packaging is made to fit changing consumer and customer needs and is offered in paper, PE, and PP retort materials. (Source:https://www.huhtamaki.com/en/media/media/press-release/2023/huhtamaki-to-launch-sustainable-flexible-packaging-innovation.--the-game-changing-technology-provides-a-unique-combination-of-best-in-class-protection-full-recyclability-and-affordability--/) June 2022: As the needs of contemporary food service operators changed, Pactiv Evergreen unveiled a new range of tamper-evident fry cartons. These inventive containers address the expanding trends of delivery and takeout by emphasizing mobility, security, and safety. (Source:https://investors.pactivevergreen.com/news-releases/news-release-details/pactiv-evergreen-introduces-tamper-evident-fry-cartons-its)

Top Companies Market Share in Food Tray Industry: (In no particular order of Rank)

• Amcor
• DS Smith Plc
• Novolex
• Mondi Group PLC
• BillerudKorsnas
• Huhtamaki Oyj
• Quinn Packaging
• ESCO Technologies Inc.
• Pactiv LLC
• Sonoco Products Company
• International Paper Company
• Brodrene Hartman A/S
• Tray-Pak Corporation
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*List of Second Tier Companies, List of Third Tier/ Start-up Companies (Inquire with sales executive) Request Any Company Profile for Preview Purpose OR Data Validation!

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Regional Analysis of the Food Tray Market

Which Region Dominates the Food Tray Market in 2024?

According to Cognitive Market Research, North America led the market in 2024, accounting for almost 40% of global sales. The demand for food trays has increased due to the growth of takeout services and the emergence of online meal delivery platforms. Durable, practical, and environmentally friendly food trays are becoming more and more necessary as more customers want to order meals for takeaway or delivery. The remarkable success that DoorDash and its subsidiary Caviar have had in snatching up 65 percent of meal delivery sales from American consumers is a major factor propelling the expansion of the food trays market in the United States, which in turn affects the market in North America. This accomplishment has a significant effect on the sector. Food trays are in higher demand as a result of DoorDash and Caviar's domination in the meal delivery market. The increasing demand for packaging solutions that can efficiently wrap and deliver meals is a result of the rise in online food orders brought about by the popularity of these platforms. Because they are convenient, safeguard the food during delivery, and guarantee its quality when it arrives, food trays are the recommended option. The demand for food trays as a necessary packaging solution is driven by the growth of meal delivery services led by Caviar and DoorDash.

Which Region is Expanding at the Fastest CAGR?

Asia-Pacific stands out as the fastest-growing region in the Food Tray market. The region is rapidly becoming more urbanized, people's habits are evolving, and disposable money is rising. A greater inclination for eating out and the expansion of the food service sector are the results of these trends. The need for food trays is being driven by food outlets such as restaurants, cafés, food courts, and others, who are looking for quick and easy ways to show and serve food to customers. According to ICRA's forecast, the quick-service restaurant industry in India is expected to grow by 20–25% in FY24. This growth would be primarily driven by factors such as an increase in demand, increased market penetration, and rapid outlet expansion. Food trays are in demand due to India's anticipated growth in the quick service restaurant (QSR) sector, which is being fueled by rising consumer demand and developing store networks. Given that India is a sizable market in the region, the expansion of the QSR sector there has an impact on the demand for food trays everywhere in the region.

The current report Scope analyzes Food Tray Market on 5 major region Split (In case you wish to acquire a specific region edition (more granular data) or any country Edition data then please write us on info@cognitivemarketresearch.com

• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Rest of Europe)
• Asia Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, South East Asia, Rest of APAC)
• Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Rest of South America)
• Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE, Egypt, Qatar, Rest of Middle East)
• Africa (Nigeria, South Africa, Rest of Africa)

The above graph is for illustrative purposes only.

North America Food Tray Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Food Tray market size was estimated at USD 12415.2 Million, out of which North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 4966.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2024 to 2031.

• According to Cognitive Market Research, the US had a major share in the Food Tray market with a market size of USD 3918.24 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period. Convenient eating options are in high demand as a result of Americans' busy lives. Food trays provide an advantageous and transportable option for preparing and eating food while on the go.
• The Canada Food Tray market had a market share of USD 595.93 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% during the forecast period. Due to developments in printing technology, Canadian producers are able to produce aesthetically pleasing food trays that improve product marketing and brand awareness. This turns food trays from being just packing into an effective marketing tool.
• The Mexico Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 451.91 million in 2024.

Europe Food Tray Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Food Tray market size was estimated at USD 12415.2 Million, out of which Europe held the market more than 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3724.56 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% from 2024 to 2031.

• The United Kingdom Food Tray market had a market share of USD 625.73 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period. The market for online food delivery in the UK is expanding. Strong food packaging that can survive shipping and keep food quality during delivery is therefore required. Food trays are perfect for this because of their qualities, which include being leak-proof, stackable, and frequently tamper-evident.
• The France Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 3.7% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 342.66 million in 2024.
• According to Cognitive Market Research, the Germany Food Tray market size was valued at USD 737.46 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period. German customers have high standards for the caliber of goods. In order to provide premium food trays with enhanced functionality, like longer shelf lives or greater heat retention, food tray makers are always coming up with new ideas. These innovations can help both food producers and customers.
• The Italy Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 320.31 million in 2024.
• The Russia Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 577.31 million in 2024.
• The Spain Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 3.6% during the forecast period with a market size of USD 305.41 million in 2024
• The Luxembourg Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 115.46 million in 2024.
• The Portugal Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 78.22 million in 2024.
• The Greece Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 44.69 million in 2024.
• Rest of Europe's Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 3.2% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 577.31 million in 2024.

Asia Pacific Food Tray Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Food Tray market size was estimated at USD 12415.2 Million, out of which Asia Pacific held the market around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2855.50 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.0% from 2024 to 2031.

• According to Cognitive Market Research, the China Food Tray market size was valued at USD 1284.97 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. Cost-effectiveness continues to be a major consideration for Chinese manufacturers. Food trays provide an affordable packaging option that can optimize production procedures and reduce wastage.
• The Japan Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 394.06 million in 2024.
• The India Food Tray market had a market share of USD 342.66 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.8% during the forecast period. In India, there is a growing demand, particularly among young people and working professionals, for ready-to-eat meals. Food trays are a practical method to package and eat prepared meals thus they perfectly suit this trend.
• The South Korea Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 285.55 million in 2024.
• The Australian Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 148.49 million in 2024.
• The South East Asia Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 9.0% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 197.03 million in 2024.
• The Rest of Asia Pacific Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 202.74 million in 2024.

South America Food Tray Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Food Tray market size was estimated at USD 12415.2 Million, out of which the Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 620.76 million in 2024. It will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% from 2024 to 2031.

• According to Cognitive Market Research, the Brazil Food Tray market size was valued at USD 265.69 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period. In Brazil, concerns over food safety are growing. Manufacturers of food trays are reacting to this by creating products that use materials that reduce the danger of contamination and conform to changing standards.
• Argentina's Food Tray market had a market share of USD 104.29 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. Argentina has a thriving food processing sector, especially for meat and agricultural products. Food trays provide an effective and hygienic method of packaging these processed foods, which in turn fuels the industry's expansion.
• Colombia's Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 55.25 million in 2024.
• Peru Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 50.90 million in 2024.
• Chile's Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 5.7% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 44.69 million in 2024.
• The Rest of Latin America's Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 99.94 million in 2024.

Middle East Food Tray Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Food Tray market size was estimated at USD 12415.2 Million, out of which the Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 248.30 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2024 to 2031.

• The GCC Countries Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 106.27 million in 2024. Premium and imported food items are becoming more and more popular among GCC customers. Food trays can be made to look better, which serves as a marketing tool in addition to their practical packaging function.
• The Egypt Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 26.07 million in 2024.
• The South Africa Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.7% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 39.23 million in 2024. Braai culture, which involves outdoor grilling and social events, is quite popular in South Africa. Adding to this well-liked custom, food trays can be utilized to serve cooked meals or hygienically pack and transport braai items.
• The Turkey Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 21.35 million in 2024.
• The Nigeria Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 26.07 million in 2024.
• The Rest of the MEA Food Tray market is projected to witness growth at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period, with a market size of USD 29.30 million in 2024.

Food Tray Market Analysis

Food Tray Market Material Type Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, Plastic is the dominating category. These trays come in a variety of design possibilities and are easily customizable to fulfill individual needs. They can be used in a variety of food applications because they come in a range of sizes, shapes, and colors. Plastic trays are renowned for being robust and long-lasting. They are less likely to break than other materials and may tolerate being handled roughly during transit. This makes them perfect for usage in takeout/delivery applications, catering services, and food service establishments. They can be made with elements that support hygienic practices and food safety. They guarantee correct food handling procedures and are simple to maintain, clean, and sanitize.

Paper & Paperboard are the fastest-growing categories in the Food Tray market. Due to their eco-friendly and biodegradable qualities, paper and paperboard food trays are becoming more and more popular, which is in line with growing environmental concerns and regulatory pressure to reduce the use of single-use plastics. These materials appeal to businesses and consumers who care about the environment because they provide a sustainable packaging option. Paper-based trays are now more useful and long-lasting due to developments in material science; it means that they can be used with a variety of meal types and delivery applications. Paper and paperboard trays are therefore increasingly being chosen in the food packaging sector.

The above Chart is for representative purposes and does not depict actual sale statistics. Access/Request the quantitative data to understand the trends and dominating segment of Food Tray Industry. Request a Free Sample PDF!

Food Tray Market Tray Type Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the dominating category is Multi Cavity. This type of food tray makes it possible to package several food products or servings on one tray. As a result, the procedures involved in preparing, packaging, and serving food are more efficient. It reduces the need for individual trays or containers for each food item, saving time and effort. Trays with multi-cavities maximize storage and transit space usage. It maximizes the use of available space and minimizes the total footprint by holding many food items on a single tray. Additionally, This is particularly significant for food delivery, catering services, and bulk packing, where effective use of available space is essential. They are made to fit particular serving sizes of every food item. By offering a standardized portioning system, they guarantee precision and consistency in serving quantities. Foodservice businesses, meal prep services, and portion-controlled food packaging will all benefit from this.

The fastest-growing category in the Food Tray market is Single Cavity. This is due to ready-to-eat meals and single-cavity servings becoming more and more popular, which is driving up demand for single-cavity food trays. These trays are perfect for delivery and takeout because of their ease of use and simplicity. They are also preferred in environments where efficiency and speed are crucial, such as cafeterias and fast-food restaurants. Single cavity trays are becoming more and more popular as consumer lifestyles get busy, which is fueling market expansion.

The above Graph is for representation purposes only. This chart does not depict actual Market share.

Food Tray Capacity Segment Analysis

Food Tray Market Capacity Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the dominating category is Standard. Standard-size food trays are still in high demand because of their adaptability and usefulness in a variety of food service industries. These trays are often used in hospitals, schools, and catering services because they are perfect for portion-controlled meals. Because of their uniform size, they are guaranteed to work with automated packaging systems and to be portable and easily stored. Standard capacity trays remain a dependable option for packaging needs as the food industry prioritizes ease and efficiency.

The fastest-growing category in the Food Tray market is Customized. Customized-size food trays are becoming more and more in demand as companies look for packaging solutions that are specifically designed to match their demands. Portion sizes can be adjusted with customized trays, allowing for a variety of product choices and distinctive branding possibilities. Specialty food items, meal kits, and gourmet food services are in very high demand. Customized capacity trays enable companies to stand out from the competition and improve customer satisfaction, which propels market growth in this particular segment.

• Standard
• Customized

Food Tray End Use Segment Analysis

Food Tray Market End-Use Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the dominating category is Commercial. The rise of the food service industry, which includes fast-food chains, restaurants, and catering services, is propelling the food tray market's commercial segment. For these companies to guarantee food quality and safety during transportation and service, they need dependable, long-lasting, and reasonably priced packaging solutions. The growth of delivery and takeout services further increases the need for commercial food trays. In commercial uses, innovations in materials and design like heat-resistant and tamper-evident trays are improving their attractiveness and usefulness.

The fastest-growing category in the Food Tray market is the Household. The food tray market's household segment is expanding as more and more people want to prepare easy meals at home. Food trays offer a useful method for serving, reheating, and storing food that accommodates a variety of dietary requirements and hectic schedules. They are perfect for meal preparation and storage because they provide portion control and are frequently safe to use in the freezer and microwave. The popularity of meal kits and the trend toward home-cooked convenience are major factors driving the need for food trays in residential settings.

• Manufacturing
• Commercial
• Institutional
• Household

Food Tray Distribution Channel Segment Analysis

Food Tray Market Distribution Channel Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the dominating category is Direct Sales. In the food tray industry, direct sales represent a significant distribution channel that enables producers to interact directly with food service providers, caterers, and other enterprises that need large quantities of food trays. Numerous benefits come with using this channel, such as improved client interactions, customized alternatives for unique requirements, and more effective logistics. In addition, direct sales allow manufacturers to offer customized service and support, guaranteeing that customers receive trays that precisely match their needs in terms of dimensions, composition, and features. In the market for food trays, this straightforward strategy frequently leads to greater consumer pleasure and loyalty.

The fastest-growing category in the Food Tray market is the E-retail. In the food tray business, the e-retail is growing in significance. Demand for food trays that are robust, safe, and aesthetically pleasing for food product packaging and delivery is growing as more people buy groceries and ready-to-eat meals online. Trays that can survive transportation-related difficulties while preserving food integrity and freshness are essential for e-retailers. Growth in this market sector is being driven by innovations in packaging technology, such as tamper-evident seals and compartmentalized designs, which are essential to meeting the strict standards of e-retail distribution channels.

• Direct Sales
• Distributors
• Retailers
• E-retail

Author's Detail

Sneha Mali

Research Analyst at Cognitive Market Research

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I am a research analyst working in various domains including the Consumer Goods domain, and my primary responsibility is to conduct thorough research on various subjects and provide valuable insights to support client requirements. I have knowledge of research methodologies, and data mining which enables me to analyze large data sets, draw meaningful conclusions, and communicate them effectively. I stay up-to-date with the latest research trends, methodologies, and technologies to ensure that my research is accurate, relevant, and impactful.

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