Although we use plates and glasses on a daily basis, we rarely think about the state of the global tableware market. However, as in other niches, it has changed significantly in recent years. Thanks to efforts by consumers, manufacturers, and sustainable suppliers, we’ve seen a large shift from single-use plastic tableware to reusable or biodegradable and compostable alternatives. Porcelain, glass, and crystal tableware will always be considered both classical and trendy. In this post, we’ll share more about the trends among tableware suppliers and manufacturers and how they react to shifts in demand. We’ll also discuss the current size of the global tableware market and how it’s expected to change.
Key takeaway: Currently, the global market’s size is roughly 50 billion dollars and is expected to grow by around 6% annually. Offline retail sales still dominate the tableware market. However, online purchases at retail or wholesale prices are rapidly growing.
Categories Included in the Tableware Market
In order to establish the size of the global tableware market, we must first understand what is included in it. Most researchers include both reusable and disposable tableware in their analysis. In fact, there is separate research about the state of the biodegradable and disposable tableware markets. That’s because these niches are more dynamic. Most trends and investments are focused on limiting plastics and investing in biodegradable materials. Let’s examine the main categories included in the tableware market.
- Cutlery and flatware;
- Kitchen utensils;
- Dishes, bowls, and other dinnerware;
- Serveware;
- Glassware and other drinkware varieties;
- Metalware and cookware;
Most of these products come in both reusable and disposable varieties.
Current State and Size of the Global Tableware Market
According to estimates, the current size of the global tableware market is around 50 billion USD. Europe has a dominant market share among the continents. It’s followed by the Asia-Pacific region and North America. Here are some characteristics of the tableware market.
Large Share of Disposable Products
Disposable goods are one of the primary drivers of the tableware market. They are commonly used by fast food restaurant businesses, event organizers, institutions, catering businesses, and many individuals. As there has been a notable switch from plastic to biodegradable alternatives, the size of the disposable tableware market has increased. That’s because products made from eco-friendly materials are usually more expensive compared to single-use plastic tableware.
Online Growth
Although most individuals purchase plates and glasses in brick-and-mortar stores, online sales of tableware have increased significantly in recent years. That’s thanks to improved return policies and reduced delivery time. Furthermore, it has become increasingly popular for wholesale sales of tableware to happen online as well. Thanks to platforms like BlueCart, business owners can compare products offered by different suppliers and manufacturers.
Developing Markets
Countries like China, India, and Indonesia play an important role in the growth of the tableware market. The growing urbanization and the increased purchasing power of these societies have led to growing sales of tableware and various other household products. Developing markets are expected to play a major role in the growth of tableware sales.
Growth Thanks to Food Service Establishment
The foodie culture has helped various sectors of the economy. It led to increased travel and growth in the hospitality sector. However, it has also affected the tableware market. Customers wish to try new and exciting culinary experiences. This increased demand has led to the opening of new restaurants that specialize in certain cuisines or offer a high-end customer experience. Michelin-starred restaurants are a great example of this trend. These establishments often purchase luxury tableware from manufacturers or wholesale restaurant supplies. This has helped the growth of the tableware market in the US.
Growth Rate Will Continue
Although the market is fairly saturated, researchers expect the growth to continue in the near future. With about a 6 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR), the tableware market can offer excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Trends in the Tableware Market
- Sustainability is the main trend in the global market for dinnerware. Companies that rely on disposable tableware products have been switching to biodegradable alternatives.
- Versatility is also a major trend among manufacturers and buyers of tableware. As customer preferences switch, producers aim to answer the demand for a wide variety of product designs. Of course, classical designs will always be high-demand products in the tableware market as well.
- Handcrafted items have become trendy in recent years as well. Their uniqueness makes them an excellent choice for both individuals and businesses.
- Smart technology products. In recent years, there have been multiple innovations in the global tableware market. From tableware with temperature control to functional designs for disposable tableware products, there are multiple ways to improve the dining experience of customers with technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Global Tableware Market
Interested in reading more about how to find suppliers for your business? Or perhaps you wish to know more about the pros and cons of using broadline distributors vs specialized ones? Either way, there are multiple useful resources available on our website. Below are the answers to common questions regarding the tableware market.
What Are the Most Popular Materials for Tableware?
Porcelain is the most common product used for manufacturing durable and reusable tableware products. Plates and other goods made from porcelain are affordable and can last for many years. There are also high-end types of porcelain such as bone china.
In the disposable tableware market, the most common materials used are plastic and paper (or cardboard). In recent years, sustainability has been the major trend in the tableware niche market. Therefore, a lot of producers and buyers have switched to biodegradable alternatives such as fiber or bamboo. Sugarcanes, palm leaves, and cornstarch are also popular materials used for biodegradable and compostable products.
What Are the Main Categories of Tableware?
Most people associate the term tableware with dinnerware. In fact, the two words are often used interchangeably. And even though plates, bowls, and other dinnerware are the most popular products in the tableware sector, there are other categories as well. Drinkware is also a category in the tableware sector. Cups and glasses are the main product types. Drinking accessories such as ice buckets or ice cube trays are often included in this subcategory as well. Flatware is the third major category in the tableware industry. It primarily includes cutlery and kitchen utensils.
Are There Business Opportunities in Tableware?
Yes. The increased focus on sustainability has created multiple opportunities to start profitable business endeavors in the tableware wholesale and retail sectors. For example, you can start an eCommerce store that sells various types of dinnerware and glassware. Benefiting from the dropshipping model will require a much smaller capital investment. Additionally, you can sell disposable tableware that is made with eco-friendly materials. The subcategories of biodegradable and compostable tableware are expected to grow significantly in the future. Another potential opportunity can be found in the handmade subcategory. Handmade and unique products will always be in demand as they showcase craftsmanship and skills.
BlueCart: The Place to Buy and Sell Tableware and Restaurant Supplies
Whether you’re a manufacturer who’s looking to increase B2B sales of tableware or you are in the restaurant industry, BlueCart is the right marketplace for you. Our wholesale ordering software connects producers and suppliers with wholesale buyers. By combining various marketing opportunities and automation tools, BlueCart helps both distributors and their customers. Schedule a free demo and see how our solutions can help you!