Disposable Packaging Sales Drop as US Dining Slows

Manufacturers face falling demand for supplies as Americans shift away from frequent restaurant dining.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Dining Out

Disposable Packaging Sales Drop as US Dining Slows

Live Poll

Compared to last year, are you and your household eating out at restaurants less frequently?

Disposable packaging manufacturers and supply companies reported declining demand in the US throughout the second and third quarters of 2026. This trend follows a broader shift as consumers eat out at restaurants less frequently.

Why it matters

Lingering inflation and stagnant wages have influenced consumer dining habits, leading to reduced patronage at restaurants. Consequently, businesses are purchasing fewer disposable items like cups, plates, and delivery containers.

Huhtamaki Oyj reported decreased second-quarter sales in North America, with the region accounting for one-third of their total sales. Additionally, Essity recorded falling sales volumes and prices for cleaning supplies during the third quarter.

The players

Huhtamaki Oyj

This is a global manufacturer that specializes in food and drink packaging, including paper and plastic products for the service industry.

Essity

This is a global hygiene and health company that produces professional cleaning supplies and paper-based consumer goods.

The details

Restaurants are scaling back on essential supplies such as paper towels, delivery containers, and cleaning products as consumer demand wanes. While some diners prioritize fast-food value menus, others are eating out less due to the impact of working from home and economic constraints.

Huhtamaki Oyj reported decreased sales in North America during Q2 2026.
Essity reported falling sales volumes in the US during Q3 2026.
An analyst report on regional sales impacts was published in October 2026.

Culture Shift

This decline in packaging demand reflects the broader societal shift toward home-centric living following the rise of remote work. This change marks a departure from historical dining patterns, as the convenience of dining out is increasingly weighed against household budget constraints.

Consumers may notice that restaurants are increasingly relying on delivery-focused menus to sustain spending as in-person dining frequency remains low. Shoppers may also find that local fast-food establishments focus more heavily on value-oriented menu items to attract cost-conscious diners.

The takeaway

The decrease in demand for restaurant disposables highlights how macroeconomic pressures are reshaping the hospitality supply chain. Readers can adapt by monitoring value menu offerings at their preferred chains to maximize their household dining budget.