Paper cup manufacturers are easy to find, but finding a trustworthy supplier that can provide a long-term, stable supply is not. If you are an importer, distributor, or brand owner in the food service industry, you’re not just buying “paper cups,” but building a supply chain system that can support business growth, new product development, and increasingly stringent sustainability requirements. This article is written specifically for decision-makers actively screening and comparing manufacturers, not just providing general information.
Behind every list of paper cup manufacturers lie significant differences, including production capacity, risk, sustainability, and the true level of B2B service. Some suppliers are ideal for national coffee chains, others for environmentally conscious niche brands, and still others for importers needing cost-competitive OEM projects. Choosing the wrong partner can lead to inventory shortages, quality issues, or compliance problems, issues whose impact may not become apparent until long after the first shipment arrives at your warehouse, and which can damage your brand.
In the following guide, we will delve into 15 major paper cup manufacturers relevant to the US market, covering large integrated groups, agile specialist companies, and overseas OEM suppliers. You’ll learn which suppliers are best suited for large-scale production, which are leading the way in eco-friendly packaging, and which can provide the flexibility needed for growing brands. More importantly, you’ll gain a practical framework to help you decide which manufacturers are worth including on your shortlist and how to combine them to build a robust multi-supplier paper cup supply system.
Key Buying Questions Before Choosing a Manufacturer
Before you shortlist any paper cups manufacturers, it helps to look beyond catalogs and unit prices. The questions below are designed for real-world B2B sourcing: they focus on capacity, risk, customization, sustainability, and total cost, not just “Can you make this cup?”. If you get clear answers in these four areas, you can quickly see which suppliers are capable of supporting a scalable, long-term supply program instead of just a one-time shipment.
Capacity and Risk Management
When you look at paper cups manufacturers, the first filter is not price, it is capacity and risk. Ask each supplier for real numbers: monthly cup output by size, peak season capacity, and how much of that is already committed to existing customers. For US-based plants, confirm how many lines can be switched to your specification in an emergency. For overseas partners, look at both factory capacity and consolidation options at ports, so you can predict how quickly production can ramp up if demand jumps.
Risk management also means understanding how fragile or resilient each manufacturer’s operations are. Do they rely on a single mill, a single coating line, or one critical subcontractor, or do they have redundant equipment and backup raw-material sources? Ask about recent disruptions, lead time volatility, and their worst-case plans for power cuts, labor shortages, or logistics bottlenecks. A supplier that can show you a written continuity plan is far more likely to protect your fill rate when the market swings.
Customization Supported
Customization is not just about printing your logo; it is about how far a paper cups manufacturer can adapt to your brand and operations. Clarify which parts they can customize in-house: cup sizes, wall structure, coatings, lid fit, embossing, and packaging format for your warehouses. Ask if they support multi-SKU campaigns and seasonal designs without painful retooling fees. The more of this they can handle internally, the less coordination work lands on your team later, especially when you scale to new regions.
For brand owners and importers, the real test is how smoothly the supplier runs an OEM or private-label project. Request a clear workflow: who owns dielines, who checks artwork, what the proofing steps look like, and how many days each stage usually takes. Good manufacturers will share print guidelines, color-matching standards, and sample timelines up front. That transparency allows you to calculate launch dates realistically and avoid last-minute marketing surprises across multiple markets. It also reveals how well their internal teams communicate under time pressure.
Sustainability and Compliance
Sustainability and compliance are no longer “nice to have” checkboxes; for many food and beverage brands they are non-negotiable. When you screen paper cups manufacturers, ask which fiber certifications they hold (FSC, PEFC, SFI), whether they offer PFAS-free or plastic-free coatings, and what compostability or recyclability claims are independently verified. Do not rely on marketing language alone. Request copies of test reports and certificates, and check that expiry dates and scope really match the products you plan to buy.
Regulatory risk is growing fast, especially around single-use plastics, PFAS, and labeling rules in the US and EU. A serious manufacturer will have someone responsible for monitoring regulations and translating them into product changes and documentation. Ask how they support customers when laws change: do they proactively propose new substrates and cup designs, or simply wait for you to ask? A partner that can guide you through compliance protects both your brand and your retail listings. Their track record here is often a good proxy for how future-proof your packaging portfolio will be.
Procurement Costs
Procurement cost is much more than the unit price printed on a quote sheet. When you compare paper cups manufacturers, build a full landed-cost view: base price, freight, duties, storage, and the cost of safety stock you must hold because of lead times. Include hidden operational costs such as frequent artwork changes, partial shipments, or quality issues that generate returns and credit notes. A supplier that looks “cheap” on paper can become very expensive once these factors are added back in.
You should also evaluate how each supplier affects your working capital and planning flexibility. Longer lead times mean larger minimum orders and inventory buffers, which lock in cash and warehouse space. On the other hand, a near-shore or domestic manufacturer with reliable short lead times may justify a slightly higher price because it lets you order more frequently and adjust to demand swings. Map these trade-offs explicitly so finance, supply chain, and marketing can align on the true best option.
Top 15 US Paper Cups Manufacturers
Dart Container
- Founded: 1960 – building on roots as Dart Manufacturing (est. 1937) in Mason, Michigan
- Headquarters: MASON, MICH.
- Products & Services: Single-use foodservice packaging – foam, plastic & paper cups, containers, lids (including Solo paper cups)
Dart Container is one of the largest cup manufacturers in North America, especially strong in large chains and foodservice distributors. With its Solo acquisition, the company can supply everything from value foam cups to higher-spec paper and compostable SKUs, backed by a dense manufacturing and distribution network. For buyers who need high-volume, multi-format cup programs (paper + plastic + lids) under one supplier, Dart is a proven, scalable partner.
Graphic Packaging International
- Founded: 1991 – current holding structure, with operating roots dating back over a century
- Headquarters: ATLANTA, GA.
- Products & Services: Fiber-based consumer & foodservice packaging – paperboard, folding cartons, cupstock & finished paper cups
After integrating International Paper’s North America consumer packaging business in 2018, Graphic Packaging has positioned itself as “the number one player in paper cups” in North America, producing an estimated 30% of regional supply. For global brands and large QSR systems, GPI offers vertically integrated fiber supply, cup design, and high-speed forming capacity. If you’re building a long-term, paper-first packaging platform with focus on sustainability and security of supply, GPI is one of the most strategic partners to evaluate.
Georgia-Pacific (Dixie）
- Founded: 1927
- Headquarters: ATLANTA, GA.
- Products & Services: Tissue, pulp & packaging – Dixie® branded paper cups, plates, and GP PRO foodservice solutions for commercial operators
Georgia-Pacific’s Dixie brand is one of the most recognized names in paper cups for both retail and away-from-home channels. Through GP PRO, the company supports major chains, institutions, and workplaces with coordinated cup-and-dispenser systems, inventory programs, and national distribution coverage. For buyers who care about brand familiarity, consistent quality, and integration with other paper hygiene products, Georgia-Pacific is a strong, enterprise-grade choice.
Huhtamaki North America
- Founded: 1920 (global Huhtamaki); North America manufacturing footprint expanded over several decades
- Headquarters: DESOTO, KAN. (NORTH AMERICA HQ)
- Products & Services: Foodservice packaging – paper hot & cold cups, lids, molded fiber tableware (including Chinet), and custom QSR solutions
Huhtamaki is a global leader in paper cups and foodservice packaging, with a strong U.S. manufacturing base. It supplies many international coffee and QSR brands with branded cup programs, including specialty formats (insulated, double-wall, and fiber-lid systems). For buyers seeking a supplier that can harmonize design across multiple regions and support global brand standards while manufacturing locally in the U.S., Huhtamaki is a top-tier candidate.
Novolex
- Founded: 2014 as Novolex brand – completed combination with Pactiv Evergreen on April 1, 2025
- Headquarters: CHARLOTTE, N.C.
- Products & Services: Food, beverage & specialty packaging – paper and plastic cups, food containers, trays, molded fiber, and cartons across 250+ brands
The merger of Pactiv Evergreen into Novolex created one of North America’s largest foodservice packaging platforms, with a huge installed base in restaurant, institutional, and retail channels. The combined portfolio spans paper cups, cold cups, lids, and alternative materials, backed by a continent-wide manufacturing and distribution network. For buyers looking for a “one-throat-to-choke” partner that can handle complex, multi-category packaging programs and rapid scale-up, the new Novolex is a strategically important manufacturer to benchmark.
Eco-Products
- Founded: 1990
- Headquarters: BOULDER, COLO.
- Products & Services: Compostable & recycled foodservice packaging – PLA-lined paper hot cups, fiber cold cups, lids, clamshells, plates, and utensils
Eco-Products focuses 100% on environmentally preferable packaging, targeting operators who want to shift from conventional PE-lined cups to compostable or recycled-content options. Now part of Novolex, it combines sustainability leadership with the backing of a major packaging group. If your sourcing team is under pressure to hit ESG goals while maintaining a reliable U.S. supply of certified compostable paper cups, Eco-Products should be on your shortlist.
World Centric
- Founded: 2004
- Headquarters: ROHNERT PARK, CALIF.
- Products & Services: Certified compostable tableware and packaging – plant-based hot & cold cups, lids, fiber clamshells, and cutlery
World Centric is a mission-driven manufacturer focused on plant-based, compostable packaging with strong certification credentials. It supplies both distributors and chains that want to move beyond “greenwashed” claims to genuinely compostable cup systems. For buyers who need clear sustainability storytelling, third-party certifications, and a brand that resonates with environmentally conscious consumers, World Centric is a high-signal partner.
Genpak
- Founded: 1969
- Headquarters: CHARLOTTE, N.C.
- Products & Services: Foodservice packaging – foam, plastic & paper containers, portion cups, paper hot cups and eco-forward lines for QSR & supermarkets
Genpak has a long history in U.S. foodservice packaging and offers a broad, pragmatic range for chains and distributors. While historically strong in foam and plastic, it has been expanding its paper and eco-forward offerings, including paper cups suitable for hot and cold drinks. For buyers who prioritize supply reliability, broad SKU coverage, and the ability to consolidate foam, plastic, and paper under one supplier, Genpak is a solid mid-to-large-scale option.
WinCup
- Founded: 1968
- Headquarters: ATLANTA, GA.
- Products & Services: EPS foam cups & containers, lids, straws and innovative sustainable lines like Vio™ foam and phade® PHA straws
WinCup is known for foam cups and cold-drink packaging, but in recent years it has invested heavily in more sustainable materials, including biodegradable foam and PHA-based straws. While its core remains foam, its R&D and transition products are highly relevant to chains that still rely on foam performance but need a roadmap toward lower-impact packaging. For buyers managing a phased material transition, WinCup can offer both legacy and emerging solutions.
YesPac
- Founded: 2005
- Headquarters: PISCATAWAY, N.J.
- Products & Services: U.S.-made single-use packaging – paper hot & cold cups, PET clear cups, paper food containers, lids, and custom-printed packaging
YesPac markets itself heavily on “Made in USA” production, lead time control, and value pricing. Its mix of paper hot cups, cold cups, and branded food containers is especially attractive to regional chains and distributors who want domestic manufacturing without minimums as high as the largest multinationals. If you’re benchmarking agile U.S. converters that can support private-label programs and relatively flexible MOQs, YesPac is worth a closer look.
Seda North America
- Founded: 2011 in North America (group roots in Italy, 1964)
- Headquarters: MOUNT PLEASANT, WIS.
- Products & Services: Paper-based food & beverage packaging – hot and cold cups, ice cream containers, food buckets, and high-graphic printed packaging with compostable options
Seda North America is part of Seda International, a European cup specialist known for high-quality graphics and innovation for major FMCG and QSR brands. Its Wisconsin plant is LEED-certified and focused on sustainable paper packaging. For buyers who care about premium print quality, differentiated cup formats (like insulated or specialty structures), and European design know-how with U.S. manufacturing, Seda is a strong contender.
Karat Packaging / Lollicup USA
- Founded: 2000 – started as Lollicup® USA and evolved into Karat Packaging Inc.
- Headquarters: ROCKWALL, TEX.
- Products & Services: Disposable foodservice packaging paper & plastic cups, eco-friendly Karat Earth® cups, lids, containers, straws, plus beverage ingredients and custom print
Karat Packaging is especially strong in beverage and bubble-tea segments, but its manufacturing capabilities now span mainstream foodservice cups and containers as well. With multiple U.S. distribution centers and a 500,000 sq ft hub in Texas, it’s designed for fast replenishment and private-label programs. For buyers in café, bubble-tea, fast-casual, and regional QSR networks needing both packaging and ingredients under one roof, Karat/Lollicup is an efficient, growth-friendly partner.
Morrison Cup Solutions
- Founded: 1991 (as Morrison Distribution and Marketing)
- Headquarters: EDMOND, OKLA.
- Products & Services: Custom-branded foam, paper & plastic cups, souvenir cups, lids, plus in-house design, printing, signage and distribution for C-stores and foodservice
Morrison Cup Solutions is a specialist rather than a generalist: it focuses on custom cup programs, especially for convenience stores, coffee programs, and regional food brands. With in-house creative and relatively low minimums, it’s ideal for buyers who want brand-forward artwork, fast turnarounds, and tight control over cup branding without managing multiple agencies and suppliers. If your priority is brand impression per cup rather than just lowest unit price, Morrison is a good niche partner.
International Paper
- Founded: 1898
- Headquarters: MEMPHIS, TENN.
- Products & Services: Renewable fiber-based packaging – containerboard, corrugated boxes, and solid bleached sulfate (SBS) paperboard used for foodservice items and cupstock
International Paper no longer runs its own North American consumer cup-converting business (it combined that unit with Graphic Packaging), but it remains a critical upstream supplier of SBS and fiber-based substrates for paper cups and foodservice packaging. For large buyers building a resilient, multi-supplier paper cup ecosystem, IP is a strategic material partner: securing board supply, sustainability credentials, and innovation in fiber can be as important as choosing the final cup converter.
Million Pack
- Founded: 2005 (incorporated 2009-09-17 in Ningbo, China)
- Headquarters: NINGBO, ZHEJIANG, CHINA
- Products & Services: Eco-friendly disposable food packaging – paper cups, bowls, trays, takeout boxes, cup lids, bags & tableware, with OEM/ODM and global export support
Million Pack is a China-based manufacturer, but it is an active exporter to North America with strong specialization in paper food containers and paper cups. The company focuses on kraft and compostable-style packaging, with full custom-print capability and rapid product development (new SKUs launched weekly). For U.S. buyers open to offshore sourcing, Million Pack can act as a flexible capacity extension: handling custom designs, seasonal projects, and cost-sensitive programs while still aligning with eco-friendly material expectations.
How to Build a Resilient Paper Cups Supply System
A strong paper cups program is not just about choosing “the best manufacturer”. It’s about designing a system that can absorb demand spikes, regulatory changes, and unexpected disruptions without putting your brand or operations at risk. In practice, that usually means deciding how many manufacturers to work with, what role each one plays, and how you will keep them aligned on specs, quality, and timelines over time.
One Manufacturer vs Multi-Supplier Strategy
One Manufacturer vs Multi-Supplier Strategy
If you are starting from scratch, it’s tempting to give everything to a single “hero supplier”. That can work for a while, but it concentrates risk and bargaining power. On the other hand, too many suppliers create complexity and dilute volumes. Most mature buyers end up with a hybrid approach: one lead manufacturer plus one or two strategic alternates. The table below summarizes the trade-offs.
| Strategy | When It Works Best | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Single / Lead Manufacturer Only | Early-stage brands, limited SKUs, low-to-medium volume in one main region | Simple communication, clean forecasting, stronger volume leverage, easier to manage specs and artwork |
| Dual / Multi-Supplier System | Growing brands, multi-region distribution, high volume or strict service-level KPIs | Built-in backup capacity, regional optimization, room to test new materials and designs, better pricing |
Shortlisting in Three Steps
- Filter by capacity, certifications, and fit with your footprint
Start by removing manufacturers that clearly cannot support your scale or compliance needs. Check realistic monthly output, peak-season capacity, and the certifications required for your target markets (FDA, EU, FSC, PFAS-free, compostability, etc.). At this stage, you’re not negotiating prices; you’re simply making sure every name on your shortlist can technically and legally supply what you need across all regions you plan to serve. - Compare eco options, customization, and service model
With a smaller pool of qualified suppliers, shift focus to differentiation. Look at who can offer the material mix and sustainability roadmap you want (standard PE, plastic-free barrier, bagasse, PLA, etc.), and how flexible they are on cup sizes, coatings, and printing. Evaluate their service model: project management, artwork support, response times, and how they handle urgent changes. The goal is to identify a lead supplier and one or two strategic alternates whose strengths are complementary. - Run structured trials and stress-test the relationship
Before you commit major volume, run controlled trial orders with the top candidates. Test more than just the cups: measure on-time delivery, claim handling, responsiveness to technical questions, and how transparent they are when something goes wrong. Use the trial phase to align on specifications, quality standards, and communication routines. At the end, you should know exactly which supplier will be your primary manufacturer, which one will act as backup or innovation partner, and how much volume you plan to allocate to each in your long-term supply plan.
Conclusion
Choosing a paper cup manufacturer isn’t about finding a perfect factory, but rather about establishing a system that can support your brand in the long term. The 15 manufacturers in this guide each have their own unique characteristics, and overseas original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Million Pack offer a combination of cost-effectiveness and environmentally friendly innovation. By considering factors such as production capacity, customization options, compliance, and total cost of ownership, you can more easily determine which manufacturers are worth including on your shortlist.
