As the UK foodservice market continues to shift toward sustainability, restaurants are investing more in high-quality, eco-friendly packaging that enhances both presentation and customer trust. In 2025, the demand for compostable, recyclable, and premium-feel packaging has surged—especially with the rise of delivery, takeaway, and grab-and-go culture.
If you're a restaurant owner or food entrepreneur looking to upgrade your packaging strategy, here are the top five best-selling eco packaging products UK restaurants are buying in 2025.
1. Kraft Paper Bowls & Lids (for Soups, Curries & Bowls)
Kraft bowls remain the number one choice for UK restaurants in 2025. Their versatility, leak resistance, and premium natural look make them perfect for everything from Asian curries to healthy salads.
Why restaurants love them:
Sturdy, leak-proof, and microwave safe
Eco-friendly appearance that customers appreciate
Ideal for both dine-out and delivery
Best for: Cloud kitchens, Indian/Asian restaurants, salad bars, meal-prep brands.
2. Compostable Paper Cups (Hot & Cold Beverages)
Sustainable beverage packaging has become a must-have—especially as more cafés and bakeries commit to reducing plastic waste. Compostable paper cups are now among the best-selling eco packaging UK cafés rely on.
Why they sell:
Fully compostable options available
Compatible with branding and custom printing
Perfect for takeaway coffee culture
Best for: Cafés, bakeries, dessert shops, bubble tea stores.
3. Ripple-Wall & Double-Wall Hot Cups
With colder winters and rising coffee consumption, ripple-wall and double-wall cups are trending. Their insulating properties keep drinks hot while protecting customers’ hands—no extra sleeves needed.
Why restaurants choose them:
Enhanced insulation
Premium feel
Works well for high-volume cafés
Best for: Coffee chains, artisan cafés, food trucks.
4. Eco-Friendly Meal Boxes (Burgers, Wraps, Rice Boxes)
Plant-based and recyclable meal boxes have become a top choice for takeaways, especially those offering loaded meals, wraps, noodles, and comfort food.
Why they stand out:
Sturdy structure for delivery
Great for branding
Grease-resistant and eco-friendly
Best for: QSRs, gourmet burger brands, noodle bars, street food kitchens.
5. Ice Cream & Dessert Paper Bowls
The dessert delivery boom continues in 2025, driving demand for eco-friendly dessert bowls. Whether it's gelato, frozen yogurt, or brownies & ice cream combos, paper dessert bowls are among the fastest-growing packaging items.
Why they’re popular:
Ideal for cold & semi-liquid desserts
Available in multiple sizes
Can be custom printed for brand recall
Best for: Dessert parlours, ice cream brands, event caterers.
Final Thoughts
Restaurant packaging in the UK is evolving rapidly—and sustainability is no longer optional. The best-selling eco packaging products UK restaurants choose in 2025 all have one thing in common: quality, convenience, and a strong eco message.
Choosing the right packaging can help you:
✔ Improve customer experience
✔ Boost brand visibility
✔ Reduce environmental footprint
✔ Increase repeat orders
If you’re looking for premium restaurant packaging UK brands trust, switching to high-quality eco-friendly options is the smartest investment you can make in 2025.
