The global food tray market has shown steady growth, with revenue reaching USD 10,105.9 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow further, with an estimated value of USD 10,399.0 million in 2025 and anticipated to reach USD 16,461.1 million by 2035 at a CAGR of 4.7% between 2025 and 2035. The increasing demand for ready-to-eat and takeout meals is one of the major contributors to this growth.

The increasing demand for food trays is largely driven by the rapid growth of the food service sector, including hospitals, cafes, fast-food chains, and catering businesses. As these establishments continue to expand, the necessity for efficient food preparation, packaging, and delivery solutions becomes more pronounced, fostering greater reliance on food trays.

Discover Growth Opportunities in the Market – Get Your Sample Report Now
https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-14355

The Food Tray Market refers to the industry involved in the production, distribution, and consumption of trays used to hold, transport, and serve food. These trays are commonly used in foodservice settings like restaurants, cafeterias, airlines, and catering, as well as in packaging for retail products, such as ready-to-eat meals or fresh produce.

Advancements in Food Packaging: A Game Changer for the Food Tray Market

Innovative breakthroughs in food packaging are reshaping the landscape of the food tray market. Cutting-edge material science is paving the way for the development of microwave-safe, ovenable, and biodegradable trays, offering consumers both convenience and sustainability.

One of the most notable advancements is the introduction of active and intelligent packaging solutions. These include trays equipped with oxygen absorbers and temperature indicators, designed to enhance food freshness and safety. Additionally, the integration of nanotechnology has led to the creation of antimicrobial surfaces, significantly reducing contamination risks and extending the shelf life of food products.

Key Market Trends Fueling Growth

1. Sustainability at the Forefront – The demand for eco-friendly and biodegradable food trays is increasing as businesses and consumers prioritize sustainability. The shift toward recyclable and compostable materials is influencing manufacturers to adopt greener alternatives.
2. Smart Packaging Solutions – Intelligent food trays that monitor temperature and freshness are gaining traction in the market, catering to evolving consumer preferences for food safety and quality.
3. Expansion of the Food Service Industry – The proliferation of food delivery services, online food platforms, and quick-service restaurants is driving the need for innovative and durable food tray solutions.
4. Regulatory Push for Safe Packaging – Governments worldwide are implementing stringent regulations to ensure food safety, compelling manufacturers to adopt compliant packaging solutions that meet industry standards.

Driving Factors Behind Market Expansion

The food tray market’s upward trajectory is supported by several pivotal factors:

• Surging Demand from the Hospitality and Healthcare Sectors – Hospitals and healthcare institutions require a steady supply of hygienic and sustainable food trays to cater to patients’ dietary needs. Similarly, the hospitality sector is witnessing a rise in dine-in and takeout orders, boosting demand for premium packaging solutions.
• Growing Consumer Awareness of Food Safety – With heightened concerns over contamination and foodborne illnesses, the market is shifting toward antimicrobial and tamper-proof food trays.
• Technological Innovations in Packaging – Advanced manufacturing processes, including the use of biodegradable polymers and smart packaging features, are enhancing product appeal and functionality.
• Increase in Ready-to-Eat and Convenience Foods – The rising popularity of pre-packaged meals and on-the-go consumption trends is fueling the adoption of food trays across supermarkets, retail chains, and restaurants.

Key Takeaways From the Food Tray Market

• The global food tray industry recorded a CAGR of 2.9% from 2020 to 2024.
• The industry reached a market value of USD 10,105.9 million in 2024.
• The USA is expected to lead in North America with a projected CAGR of 3.7% through 2035.
• India is anticipated to see significant growth in South Asia Pacific, with a CAGR of 5.8% by 2035.
• Plastic-based food trays are forecasted to grow at a remarkable CAGR of 52.4% from 2025 to 2035.
• Distributor tray end uses are projected to expand at a CAGR of 39.7%.

Competitive Landscape

Key companies in the food tray industry are investing in the creation of innovative sustainable solutions, as well as forming collaborations. Key food tray providers have also been purchasing smaller players to expand their footprint and penetrate the food tray market in numerous regions.

Recent Industry Developments in the Food Tray Market

• In January 2025, Hartmann division fiber wise displays fibre-based fresh food trays containing 70% less plastic.
• In October 2024, Yangi unveils its latest packaging innovation, a fiber- based food tray designed to replace conventional plastic trays in the food sector tray Industry. The fiber tray is recyclable in existing paper streams worldwide.
• In July 2024, Holmen launches Inverform PET 30, a 30-gsm version of its popular ready-made meal trays.
• In April 2024, Klockner Pentaplast (kp) has announced the launch of what it describes as the first food packaging trays comprising 100% recycled PET (rPET) deriving exclusively from trays.

Key Players of the Food Tray Market

• Amcor
• Sonoco Products Company
• Huhtamaki Oyj
• DS Smith Plc
• Mondi Group PLC
• Hitray
• HSQY Plastic Group
• Easy Green
• BillerudKorsnas
• International Paper Company
• Quinn Packaging
• Pactiv LLC
• Tray-Pak Corporation
• Brodrene Hartman A/S
• ESCO Technologies Inc.
• Novolex

Key Segments of the Food Tray Industry

By Material Type:

In terms of material type, the industry is divided into plastic, paper paperboard, aluminium and others. Plastic is further divided into polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), others (HIPS, HDPE, etc.)

By Tray Type:

In terms of tray Type, the industry is divided into single cavity and multi cavity.

By Distribution Channel:

By distribution channel, the market is divided into direct sales, distributors, retailers, E-retail.

By Capacity:

By capacity, the market is divided into standard, customized.

By End Use:

The market is classified by end use such as manufacturing, commercial, institutional, household.

By Region:

Key countries of North America, Latin America, Europe, The Middle East and Africa, East Asia, South Asia, Oceania have been covered in the report.