Packaging choices are changing quickly across the UK food and events industry. Customers are paying closer attention to sustainability, event organisers are becoming stricter about what they allow on-site, and suppliers now offer far more eco-friendly packaging options than they did even a few years ago.

At the same time, traditional packaging is still cheaper, often stronger, and usually easier to source in bulk. For concession operators, stalls, mobile vendors, and event caterers, the challenge is finding packaging that works operationally while still matching customer expectations and budget.

This guide compares compostable and traditional packaging in a practical, vendor-focused way. We will look at how each option performs for popcorn, candy floss, waffles, slush, ice cream, snow cones, and other fast-moving event snacks. We will also cover cost, durability, storage, compliance, and customer perception so you can choose what fits your setup.

Why Packaging Choice Matters for Concession Businesses

In a fast-serving environment, packaging is not just “something to hold the food”. It affects speed, consistency, and how smoothly you can trade during rush periods.

Good concession packaging needs to stack well, store easily, and stay reliable even when you are serving quickly. It also plays a bigger role in presentation than many vendors realise. Most event snacks are eaten immediately, so the packaging becomes part of the product in the customer’s hand. A sturdy cup or premium tub can make the serving feel higher value, which supports stronger pricing.

For mobile vendors, packaging choices also affect your day-to-day operation. Bulk ordering and storage space matter, waste handling varies by venue, and speed of service is always a priority. You also need to consider compliance, especially as more councils and festival organisers tighten requirements.

The 2025 and 2026 events season is expected to bring more sustainability expectations across many venues, so understanding the pros and cons now helps you stay ahead rather than scrambling last minute.

What Counts as Compostable Packaging?

Compostable packaging is usually made from plant-based materials such as PLA, CPLA , bagasse, bamboo, and certain types of coated kraft paper.

The key point is that compostable packaging is designed to break down in commercial composting facilities. That means it is not always suitable for home composting, and it does not always break down properly if it ends up in general waste.

In event catering, common compostable items include cold cups, kraft tubs, bagasse plates, wooden cutlery, and compostable spoons.

Compostables work well for many concession foods, but they do have limitations. PLA-based products, for example, are great for cold drinks but can soften or warp with heat. That makes them unsuitable for hot liquids and high-temperature use.

What Counts as Traditional Packaging?

Traditional packaging includes materials that are widely used because they are cheap, durable, and available in bulk.

This usually includes PET plastic cups, PP tubs, polystyrene trays, laminated paper food containers, and other conventional materials.

Traditional packaging remains popular in high-volume event environments because it is consistent and predictable. PET cups hold their shape well, laminated tubs resist oil and moisture, and plastic containers are easy to store without worrying about heat or humidity.

Even though traditional packaging is less eco-friendly overall, many vendors still rely on it because it performs well when speed and durability matter most.

Compostable vs Traditional Packaging: The Key Differences That Matter in Real Trading

There is no perfect answer for every business. The right choice depends on your products, your venues, and how you trade. Here are the key areas that matter most for concession operators.

Cost

Compostable packaging usually costs more per unit than traditional packaging. Plant-based materials and specialist manufacturing processes typically push prices higher, although the gap has narrowed going into 2025 and 2026 compared to previous years.

Traditional packaging still wins on raw cost. PET cups, laminated tubs, and many standard food containers remain the cheapest option when buying in bulk.

However, the real-world cost difference can be smaller than it looks on paper. If compostable packaging helps you secure better events, meet organiser requirements, or justify slightly higher pricing, it can still be commercially worthwhile.

Strength and durability

Compostable packaging is often strong enough for concession service, but it behaves differently depending on moisture and temperature.

PLA cups are excellent for cold drinks and slush, but they do not handle heat well. Kraft trays and bagasse plates work well for waffles and warm desserts, but they can soften if sauces pool or if moisture builds up.

Traditional packaging tends to be more durable across the board. PET cups keep their shape even when stacked tightly or filled quickly during a rush. Laminated tubs hold up better against oil and moisture, which is why they are still widely used for popcorn and high-volume service.

Durability is one of the main reasons many vendors keep traditional packaging in their setup, especially for high-footfall events.

Storage and shelf life

Storage is a bigger factor than most people expect, especially for mobile operators.

Compostable packaging can be more sensitive to heat and humidity. If you store stock in a warm van, a hot stockroom, or a damp area, some compostable items can warp, soften, or become brittle around the edges.

Traditional packaging usually tolerates a wider range of storage conditions. This makes it easier for vendors who do not have perfect storage control between events.

If you trade outdoors often or carry stock across multiple locations, traditional packaging can be simpler to manage.

Environmental impact

Compostable packaging can reduce reliance on conventional plastics and improve your overall sustainability message, especially if your venue has the correct waste streams.

The important detail is that compostable packaging needs the right disposal system to break down properly. If a venue does not provide composting facilities, compostables may still end up in general waste, which reduces the environmental benefit.

Traditional packaging has a higher environmental impact overall, but some items may still be recyclable depending on local facilities and how the waste is sorted.

Customer perception matters here. Even if the waste stream is not perfect, many event-goers still prefer eco-friendly packaging, and that expectation alone can influence buying behaviour and brand trust.

Local rules and event requirements

This is where packaging decisions can become non-negotiable.

More UK councils and private event organisers are moving towards low-waste policies for 2025 and 2026. Some festivals require compostable or recyclable packaging across all vendors. Others still allow traditional materials but may restrict certain items like polystyrene.

Before you commit to a full packaging change, it is worth checking the typical requirements for the events you work. It also helps to understand what waste streams the organiser provides, because that affects how compostable packaging is actually handled on-site.

If you regularly trade council events or large festivals, switching at least part of your packaging range to compostables may become essential rather than optional.

Compostable vs Traditional Packaging by Product Type (What Works Best)

Different foods behave differently in packaging. Moisture, oil, heat, and holding time all matter. Here is a practical breakdown for common concession products.

Popcorn packaging

Popcorn is light, but it can release heat and steam, and oil can weaken lower-quality packaging.

Traditional tubs or PP tubs remain one of the strongest choices for popcorn because they resist oil and hold their structure well. They also stack cleanly and are reliable in high-volume environments.

Compostable popcorn options exist, but they can lose rigidity faster if popcorn is served hot and held for longer periods.

A strong approach is to use traditional tubs for heavy service, and compostable kraft boxes for smaller portions or premium presentation where holding time is shorter.

Candy floss packaging

Candy floss is one of the easiest products to package because it has very little moisture. That means compostable packaging performs well here and holds up reliably.

Compostable tubs work well and support an eco-friendly brand image. Clear PET tubs can also be effective if you want maximum visibility, especially for colourful candy floss that sells on appearance.

Candy floss is a product where compostables can be an easy switch without operational downsides.

Waffle packaging

Waffles sit in the middle. They are warm, and toppings add moisture.

Compostable kraft trays and bagasse plates usually work well for waffles, especially if you serve quickly and avoid letting sauces pool for too long. They look clean, feel premium, and support sustainability messaging.

If you serve heavily loaded waffles or expect longer waits between serving and eating,  traditional laminated trays can hold up better and reduce sogginess.

Slush packaging

Slush is cold and moisture-heavy, so cup quality matters.

Compostable PLA cups are ideal for cold drinks and have become a popular option for slush operations. They are clear, look premium, and handle cold temperatures well.

Traditional PET cups remain the most durable and often the lowest-cost option, especially for high-volume events where stacking and speed are priorities.

If you want a simple compostable upgrade, slush cups are often one of the easiest places to start.

Ice cream packaging

Ice cream melts, so tubs need to handle moisture and keep their shape.

Compostable tubs with a suitable lining can work very well, especially for premium or artisan-style ice cream where presentation matters. They also align well with customer expectations in eco-focused venues.

Traditional laminated tubs remain extremely reliable for high-speed, high-volume events where durability and consistency matter most.

Snow cone packaging

Snow cones are cold, wet, and often eaten while walking. That means leak resistance and strength matter.

Traditional PET cups are usually the strongest choice for snow cones because they keep their shape and resist moisture well. Compostable options have improved and can work, but they need to be chosen carefully for strength.

If you trade events with strict packaging requirements, compostable cups may be necessary. Otherwise, many operators stay with traditional cups for reliability.

Branding: How Packaging Shapes Customer Perception

Packaging is part of your presentation, and customers notice it more than many vendors expect.

Compostable packaging often creates a more thoughtful, premium impression. Some customers are willing to pay slightly more because the product feels better presented and more aligned with modern expectations.

Traditional packaging can still look premium if you choose high-quality clear cups, colourful tubs, or printed packaging that looks intentional rather than basic.

Whichever route you choose, consistency matters. Customers remember stalls where every detail feels deliberate and well put together.

A Balanced Approach: Mixing Compostable and Traditional Packaging

Many concession operators do not go fully compostable or fully traditional. They mix packaging based on what works best for each product.

A balanced setup might look like this:

• Compostable cups for slush

• Traditional tubs for popcorn

• Compostable trays for waffles

• Recyclable PET cups for certain cold drinks

This approach reduces environmental impact while keeping operational efficiency high.

If you are unsure where to start, switching one or two product lines first is often the best move. You can then monitor customer reaction, serving speed, and waste handling at events before making bigger changes.

Final Thoughts

Compostable packaging is becoming a realistic and increasingly common choice for the 2025 and 2026 event season. Traditional packaging still wins in many areas, especially cost, durability, and storage flexibility.

The best choice depends on your menu, your event types, your storage conditions, and your brand positioning. When you choose packaging that supports both your service style and customer expectations, you build a setup that feels professional, performs reliably, and helps you trade confidently at busy events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is compostable packaging required at UK festivals in 2025/2026?

Some festivals and event organisers now require compostable or recyclable packaging, while others still allow traditional materials with restrictions on certain items like polystyrene. Always check organiser rules before the event so you stay compliant.

Is compostable packaging more expensive than traditional packaging?

Yes, compostable packaging is usually slightly more expensive per unit. However, the price gap has narrowed, and the cost can be offset if it helps you secure better events or charge slightly higher prices due to improved presentation.

Does compostable packaging actually break down at events?

Compostable packaging breaks down properly in commercial composting facilities. If an event does not provide the correct waste streams, compostables may still end up in general waste, which reduces the environmental benefit.

What is the best packaging for popcorn at events?

Traditional laminated tubs or PP tubs are often the best choice for popcorn because they resist oil and hold their structure well. Compostable kraft options can work for smaller portions or premium presentation, but they may soften faster with heat and steam.

What is the best packaging for slush drinks?

Compostable PLA cups work very well for slush because they are designed for cold drinks and look premium in clear presentation. PET cups are still the strongest and lowest-cost option for high-volume trading.

What packaging works best for waffles with toppings?

Compostable kraft trays and bagasse plates work well for most waffle service, especially when customers eat quickly. For heavily loaded waffles or longer holding times, traditional laminated trays may hold up better.

Should mobile traders use compostable packaging?

Mobile traders can use compostable packaging, but storage conditions matter. Compostables can be more sensitive to heat and humidity, so if you store stock in warm vans or outdoor conditions, you may need to choose stronger options or mix compostable and traditional packaging.

What is the best way to switch to eco-friendly packaging without disrupting service?

Start with one or two product lines, such as slush cups or waffle trays. Monitor how they perform during real service, then expand gradually once you know what works best for your setup.

Do customers care about eco-friendly packaging at events?

Yes, many customers notice packaging and prefer eco-friendly options. Even small changes can improve brand perception and make your stall feel more modern and premium.

Can I mix compostable and traditional packaging?

Yes, and many operators do. Mixing packaging types lets you keep strength and efficiency where it matters most, while still reducing environmental impact and meeting organiser expectations.