Executive Summary

Our business focuses on producing and selling

eco-friendly disposable plates and cups made
from biodegradable materials. With a rising
awareness of environmental issues and
increasing demand for sustainable alternatives,
we aim to cater to university cafes and food
streets, particularly targeting locations like
Anarkali Food Street. By offering high-quality,
affordable, and eco-conscious products, we are
positioned to reduce single-use plastic waste and
meet the growing demand for sustainable
tableware solutions.

Our goal is to establish strong partnerships with

universities, local food vendors, and cafes to
provide cost-effective, sustainable alternatives to
traditional disposable products. With a strong
focus on environmental responsibility, quality,
and affordability, we aim to secure a significant
market share in this emerging industry.

Key Highlights:

Products: Biodegradable disposable plates and

cups made from natural, eco-friendly materials.
Target Market: University cafes and food
vendors, particularly in areas like Anarkali Food
Street.
Competitive Advantage: Affordable, sustainable
products that help reduce plastic waste.
Financial Goal: 20% market penetration in the
first year, with projected annual revenue growth
of 25%.
Industry Analysis
1. Industry Size, Growth Rate, and Sales
Projection
The global biodegradable disposable tableware
market was valued at around USD 6.3 billion in
2023 and is expected to grow at a compound
annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.5% from 2024 to
2030. In Pakistan, this trend is reflected in urban
centers, where consumer awareness and demand
for sustainable products are rising. We estimate
a local market size of approximately PKR 500
million, with annual sales growth of 20% in key
areas like universities and food streets.

2. Industry Structure
The eco-friendly disposable tableware industry is
fragmented, with a mix of large multinational
corporations and smaller local manufacturers.
Key participants include producers of raw
materials such as bagasse, cornstarch, and
bamboo, as well as manufacturers specializing in
biodegradable finished products. Our business
will focus on providing high-quality, mid-priced
products to address both environmental
concerns and budget constraints.

3. Nature of Participants
Raw Material Suppliers: Provide biodegradable
inputs like sugarcane bagasse, corn-based
polymers, and bamboo fibers.
Manufacturers: Convert raw materials into
finished disposable products.
Distributors: Supply products to food vendors,
cafes, and retail outlets.
Retailers: Serve end consumers and businesses.
4. Key Success Factors
Product Quality and Innovation: Continuous
improvement in the design and durability of
biodegradable products.
Cost Competitiveness: Offering eco-friendly
options at prices comparable to traditional
plastic disposables.
Distribution Efficiency: Building strong
relationships with key customers like universities
and food vendors.
Brand Recognition: Raising awareness about the
benefits of using biodegradable tableware.
5. Industry Trends
Increasing Consumer Demand: A shift towards
sustainable living and environmentally friendly
products.
Government Regulations: Policies banning or
limiting plastic use, encouraging eco-friendly
alternatives.
Technological Advancements: Ongoing
innovations in biodegradable material
processing, enhancing product quality and
affordability.
6. Long-Term Prospects
The long-term outlook for the eco-friendly
disposable tableware industry is highly positive.
As environmental awareness grows and
government regulations become stricter, demand
for biodegradable products is expected to rise
significantly. By focusing on innovation, cost
management, and market expansion, businesses
in this industry can anticipate steady growth and
profitability over the next decade.
Company overview:
[our Business Name] specializes in manufacturing high-quality disposable plates and cups
made from paper and thermocol. Our products cater to the food service industry, including
street food vendors, catering businesses, and event organizers, providing them with reliable,
cost-effective solutions for serving food and beverages.

Company History:
Founded in [Year], [our Business Name] began with a vision to address the growing demand
for disposable tableware in the food industry. The business was started by [ Name], who has a
background in [mention relevant experience, e.g., manufacturing, small business operations,
etc.] and a deep understanding of market needs. Recognizing the increasing demand for
disposable tableware, [our Name] initiated the project with a focus on quality and
affordability, ensuring that small and medium-sized food vendors could benefit from cost-
effective options.

Mission statement:
Our mission is to produce and supply high-quality, durable, and cost-effective disposable
tableware for food vendors and event organizers. We are committed to streamlining
operations and delivering products that meet the practical needs of our customers, ensuring
satisfaction and consistent quality.

Products and services:

We specialize in manufacturing the following products:
Disposable plates:
Made from durable paper materials in various sizes suitable for meals, snacks, and desserts.
Thermocol plates for customers requiring lightweight, cost-effective solutions.

Disposable cups:
Paper cups designed for serving beverages such as tea, coffee, and cold drinks.
Thermocol cups for quick service and affordability.

Additional services:
Bulk product packaging for distributors and large-scale buyers.
Customizable designs and sizes based on customer requirements for events or branding.

Current status:
[our Business Name] is currently in the startup phase. We have secured two rented rooms—
one dedicated to storing raw materials such as paper rolls and thermocol sheets, and the other
for setting up production machinery. We are in the process of finalizing equipment purchases
and establishing supply chains for raw materials. With a planned launch within six months,
our focus is on building inventory, finalizing partnerships, and initiating marketing efforts.

Ownership:
[our Business Name] is a sole proprietorship owned and managed by [our Name]. As the sole
owner, [our Name] oversees all aspects of the business, including production, financial
management, supplier relationships, and customer acquisition.

Key partnership:
To ensure smooth operations and consistent quality, [our Business Name] has established key
partnerships, including:

1. Raw material supplier: Agreements with reliable paper and

thermocol manufacturers to maintain a steady supply of raw materials.
 2. Logistics provider: Collaboration with local logistics companies to
ensure timely delivery of finished products to customers.

3. Wholesalers and distributor: Building relationships with

wholesalers who will distribute our products to local food vendors and retailers.

Overall schedule:

Our overall schedule is outlined below, with specific milestones and timelines to ensure the
successful launch and growth of our business.

Month 1-2:setup and preparation

During the first two months, we will focus on setting up our business operations. This will
include renting two rooms, one for storage and the other for production, purchasing machines
and raw materials, and hiring a machine operator. We will also spend time developing our
marketing strategy, creating marketing materials, and establishing relationships with
suppliers.

Month 3-4:Production and sales launch

In months three and four, we will begin production of our disposable plates and cups. We will
start with a small production run to test our machines and processes, and then gradually
increase production to meet demand. We will also launch our sales efforts, focusing on direct
sales calls, product samples, and social media marketing.

Month 5-6:Evaluation and adjustments:

After the first six months, we will evaluate our progress and make any necessary adjustments
to our operations, marketing strategy, or product offerings. This will include reviewing our
financial performance, assessing customer feedback, and identifying areas for improvement.

Month 7-12 :Growth and Expansion:

In the second half of the year, we will focus on growing and expanding our business. This
will include increasing production capacity, expanding our marketing efforts, and exploring
new sales channels. We will also continue to evaluate and improve our operations, ensuring
that we remain competitive and efficient.

Beyond year one:

In the second year and beyond, we will continue to grow and expand our business, exploring
new markets, products, and technologies. We will also focus on maintaining our competitive
edge, ensuring that our products and services remain relevant and in demand.

### Market Analysis of Disposable Plates and Glass

The market for disposable plates and glasses is experiencing significant growth worldwide,
driven by factors such as changing lifestyles, increasing awareness of hygiene, and the
demand for convenient food packaging solutions. Below is a detailed analysis of this market:

---

#### **1. Market Overview**

Disposable plates and glasses are single-use items made from various materials such as
plastic, paper, foam, and biodegradable substances like bagasse and bamboo. These products
cater to a broad audience, including individuals, foodservice providers, and event organizers.
Their primary appeal lies in convenience, cost-effectiveness, and hygienic benefits.

---

#### **2. Market Drivers**

1. **Rising Demand for Convenience Products**
- Urbanization and busier lifestyles have led to increased demand for disposable products
for on-the-go consumption.
- Food delivery and takeaway services have surged, necessitating disposable packaging
solutions.
2. **Hygiene Concerns**
- Post-COVID-19, there is heightened awareness of hygiene, driving the adoption of single-
use products in homes, hospitals, and restaurants.

3. **Growth in the Foodservice Industry**

- Rapid expansion of quick-service restaurants (QSRs), cafes, and catering services bolsters
demand for disposable plates and glasses.

4. **Eco-Friendly Innovations**
- Rising environmental concerns have spurred the development of biodegradable and
compostable disposable plates and glasses, attracting environmentally conscious consumers.

---

#### **3. Market Challenges**

1. **Environmental Concerns**
- Single-use plastics contribute to waste and pollution, leading to regulatory restrictions in
many regions.
- Adoption of eco-friendly alternatives faces challenges such as higher costs and limited
availability.

2. **Competition and Price Sensitivity**

- The market is highly competitive, with numerous players offering products at varying
price points.
- Price-sensitive consumers often prioritize affordability over eco-friendliness.

3. **Supply Chain Disruptions**

- Fluctuations in raw material availability and costs (e.g., petroleum for plastics, pulp for
paper) can affect production and pricing.

---

#### **4. Material Trends**

1. **Plastic**
- Historically dominant due to cost-effectiveness and durability, but declining in favor due
to environmental bans.
2. **Paper**
- Gaining popularity as a recyclable option, particularly for lightweight usage.
3. **Biodegradable Alternatives**
- Materials like bagasse, bamboo, and PLA (polylactic acid) are seeing increased demand
due to sustainability initiatives.
4. **Foam**
- Commonly used but faces backlash for being non-biodegradable.

---
#### **5. Market Segmentation**
1. **By Product Type**
- Plates
- Glasses

2. **By Material**
- Plastic
- Paper
- Foam
- Biodegradable Materials

3. **By End-User**
- Residential
- Commercial (Hotels, Restaurants, and Cafes - HoReCa)
- Healthcare

4. **By Distribution Channel**

- Retail Stores
- Online Platforms
- Wholesale

---

#### **6. Regional Insights**

1. **North America**
- Mature market with strong eco-friendly product adoption due to strict environmental
regulations.
2. **Europe**
- Driven by stringent sustainability goals and high consumer awareness.
3. **Asia-Pacific**
- High growth potential due to urbanization, population growth, and an expanding
foodservice sector.
4. **Latin America and Middle East & Africa**
- Emerging markets with increasing adoption of disposable products in urban areas.

---

#### **7. Key Market Players**

Prominent companies driving innovation and competition in the market include:
- **Dart Container Corporation**
- **Huhtamaki Oyj**
- **Reynolds Consumer Products**
- **Georgia-Pacific LLC**
- **Eco-Products, Inc.**
- **Pactiv Evergreen Inc.**
---

#### **8. Market Forecast and Opportunities**

1. **Growth Projection**
- The global disposable plates and glasses market is expected to grow at a CAGR of
approximately **5-7%** from 2024 to 2030.
2. **Opportunities**
- Rising demand for biodegradable and sustainable products.
- Innovations in design and material, such as stronger and heat-resistant disposables.

---

### **Conclusion**
The disposable plates and glasses market is poised for robust growth, fueled by convenience,
hygiene, and eco-consciousness. Companies investing in sustainable materials and innovative
designs are likely to capture significant market share, especially in regions with stringent
environmental regulations. Addressing challenges like cost and environmental impact will be
key to long-term success in this sector.

Business plan

5. Economics of the business:

Revenue Drivers

The revenue drivers of the business revolve around the pricing strategy, sales volume, and the
product mix. Here are the primary revenue drivers:

1. Product Pricing:

o Plates: The price per disposable plate is set at PKR 6. Plates will be sold
primarily to food vendors who need durable tableware for street food,
takeaways, and other food service businesses.

o Cups: The price per disposable cup is set at PKR 5. These cups are targeted at
beverage vendors, dessert shops, and small eateries.

2. Sales Volume:
Sales volume will depend on:
 o Customer acquisition: As you penetrate the market and gain trust from food
vendors, sales volume is expected to grow gradually.

o Seasonal demand: Disposable products tend to have peak seasons (e.g.,

festivals, weddings, etc.) where demand will increase.

o Growth through customer retention and referrals.

3. Product Mix:

o Plates contribute around 60% of the total sales, while cups account for 40%.

o Product mix flexibility: The business can adjust the ratio of plates and cups
based on customer demand, allowing for better pricing strategies or discounts
on bulk orders.

4. Potential for Up-Sell:

o Offering discounts for bulk purchases can help increase sales volume.

Profit Margins

To assess the profitability, we need to calculate both gross margins and contribution margins.

1. Revenue per Unit:

o The average price for a plate is PKR 6.

o The average price for a cup is PKR 5.

Fixed and Variable Costs

1. Fixed Costs: These are costs that do not vary with production volume. They remain
constant regardless of the number of units produced.

o Rent: PKR 20,000/month for two rooms (one for production, one for raw
materials storage).

o Salaries: PKR 25,000/month for two workers.

o Utilities: PKR 10,000/month for electricity, water, and other maintenance.

 o Depreciation: Machinery and equipment cost PKR 500,000, which will
depreciate over 10 years. Fare per day of machine is 2500.

Total Fixed Costs:

Fixed Costs=20,000+25,000+10,000+5,000=PKR 60,000/month.

2. Variable Costs: These costs vary directly with the volume of production. They
include:

o Raw Materials (Paper, Thermocol, Plastic).

o Labor (workers paid per unit).

o Packaging and Distribution Costs.

Variable Cost per Unit:

Variable Costs per Unit=3.30PKR.

Startup Costs

Here are the initial costs required to start the business:

1. Rent Advance (2 months): PKR 40,000 (PKR 20,000/month for two rooms).

2. Machinery and Equipment: PKR 500,000 (for production machinery like molding,
cutting, and finishing).

3. Initial Raw Materials: PKR 10,000 (to begin production).

4. Miscellaneous Costs (Licenses, Marketing, Setup): PKR 20,000.

Total Startup Costs:

Total Startup Costs=40,000+500,000+10,000+20,000=PKR 570,000.

7 . Design and Development Program

The design and development program involve the following steps:
1. Product Design: Designing the disposable plates and cups to ensure they are functional,
durable, and meet the required quality standards.

2. Material Selection: Selecting the most suitable materials for the disposable plates and
cups, taking into account factors such as cost, durability, and environmental impact.

3. Prototype Development: Creating prototypes of the disposable plates and cups to test
their functionality and durability.

4. Testing and Quality Assurance: Conducting tests to ensure the disposable plates and cups
meet the required quality standards.

5. Design Refining: Refining the design of the disposable plates and cups based on the
results of the testing and quality assurance.

Development Status and Tasks

The development of GreenServe's disposable plates and cups is currently in the prototype
development stage. The following tasks need to be completed:

1. Prototype Testing: Conducting tests to ensure the prototypes meet the required quality
standards.

2. Material Sourcing: Sourcing the required materials for mass production.

3. Manufacturing Process Development: Developing a manufacturing process that ensures

efficient and high-quality production.

Challenges and Risks

The following challenges and risks have been identified:

1. Material Sourcing Risks: The availability and cost of raw materials may fluctuate,
affecting the production costs.

[Link] Volatility: Prices of raw materials can fluctuate due to market conditions, affecting
production costs and profit margins.
Environmental Concerns: Thermocol and plastic are non-biodegradable, leading to
criticism from environmentalists and policymakers.

Unstable Demand: Demand for disposable plates and cups may fluctuate due to seasonality
or changes in customer preferences.

Production Process of Disposable Plates and Cups

The production process for disposable plates and cups involves several stages, from raw
material preparation to the final product packaging. Below is a detailed explanation of each
step in the production process:

1. Raw Material Procurement and Storage

The first step in the production process is acquiring the raw materials necessary to make
disposable plates and cups. The primary materials used for production include:

 Paper: Used for making paper plates and cups.

 Thermocol (Polystyrene): Commonly used for making disposable plates, cups, and
trays.

 Plastic (Polypropylene or PET): Used for manufacturing cups, plates, and food
containers.
Once the raw materials are procured, they are stored in the designated room. Care must be
taken to store them in a dry and safe environment to prevent damage or contamination.

 Storage considerations:

o Paper is stored in stacks, kept away from moisture.

o Plastic and thermocol sheets are stored in their original packaging to avoid
exposure to sunlight and heat, which could affect their quality.

2. Machine Setup and Preparation

Once the raw materials are in place, the next step is preparing the machinery for production.
The machines typically used for making disposable plates and cups are:

 Plate Molding Machine: This machine forms disposable plates from sheets of
thermocol or paper. It applies heat and pressure to mold the material into the desired
shape.
 Paper plate molding machine

Thermocol plate making machine

  Cup Forming Machine: For disposable cups, a cup-forming machine is used, which
molds plastic or paper into cup shapes by feeding raw material into the machine and
using heat and pressure.

Before starting production, the machines should be checked for any maintenance needs and
calibrated to ensure consistent product quality.

3. Production Process (Molding and Shaping)

The actual production process involves the molding and shaping of the raw materials into
disposable products. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

1. Thermocol and Paper Plate Production:

o Heating and Compression: For thermocol plates, thermocol sheets are fed
into the machine, where they are heated to soften and then compressed into
molds that form the desired shape of the plate (round, square, etc.).

o Drying: The plates are then cooled and dried to harden the material and ensure
the shape remains stable.

o Paper Plates: For paper plates, paper pulp is fed into the machine, which is
then shaped using molds. The plates are subjected to heat and pressure to
ensure they retain their form.
Different mold shapes for plates
Plastic Cup Production:

o Heating and Molding: The plastic sheets (such as PET or PP) are fed into a
cup-forming machine, which uses a combination of heat and pressure to form
the plastic into cups.

o Trimming: Excess plastic is trimmed from the edges to ensure the cups have a
smooth, uniform appearance.

2. Shaping and Final Forming:

o After the plates and cups are molded, they are removed from their molds and
sent through machines that give them their final shape. For instance, any
additional trimming or smoothing is done to ensure consistent quality.
4. Quality Control and Testing

After the products are shaped, quality control is a critical step. This ensures that the final
products meet the required standards. The quality control checks include:

 Size and Shape: Ensuring that the plates and cups conform to the specified
dimensions.

 Strength and Durability: Testing the plates and cups to check whether they are
strong enough to hold food and liquid without breaking or leaking. This can be done
by subjecting a sample to a weight test or filling cups with liquid to check for leakage.

 Heat Resistance: Since disposable plates and cups often come into contact with hot
food or beverages, heat resistance is crucial. Products are tested by exposing them to
high temperatures.

 Surface Texture: Ensuring the surface of the product is smooth and free of defects
that could affect its usability or appearance.

Any plates or cups that fail the quality checks are discarded or recycled, and production
adjustments are made if necessary

Polythene grains (raw material) : 150 per kg

No of plates produced from 1kg raw polythene : 400

Rate of plates in whole sales market : 3Rs per piece

Price of 400 plates produced from 1kg polythene grains : 3*400= 1200

Price of machine : 5 lac(used)

Fare per day of the machine : 2500 per day

The disposable plates market in Pakistan has seen significant growth in recent years, driven
by changes in lifestyle, increasing urbanization, and the growing trend of outdoor dining and
catering services. Below is an analysis of the market:

---
Market Overview

1. Size & Growth:-

- The disposable tableware market, including plates, is valued at an estimated **PKR 10-15
billion**.

- The market is expected to grow at a **CAGR of 4.56** in the next 5 years due to
increased demand in urban areas.

2. Key Drivers

- Urbanization:- Rapid urbanization and smaller living spaces encourage the use of
disposable tableware.

-Food Delivery & Catering:- The growth of food delivery services and catering businesses
increases demand for disposable plates.

- Cost-Effectiveness:- These products offer an affordable and convenient alternative to

reusable dishes.

3. Consumer Segments

-Households:- Used for family gatherings and parties.

-Corporate & Event Planners:- High demand for disposable plates in weddings, events, and
office parties.

- Street Vendors & Restaurants:- Widely used for serving fast food and takeaway items.

---

Product Trends

1. Material Types:-
 - Plastic Plates:- Most commonly used due to affordability but face criticism due to
environmental concerns.

-Paper Plates:- Increasing demand due to eco-friendliness and government regulations on

plastic.

-Biodegradable Options:- Slowly gaining traction among environmentally conscious

consumers.

[Link] & Size:-

- Plates come in varying sizes, with 9-inch and 12-inch options being popular.

- Custom designs and branding options are available for corporate clients.

---

Competitive Landscape

[Link] Players:-

- Local manufacturers dominate the market, offering low-cost options.

- Imported premium brands cater to high-end consumers and corporate clients.

2. Pricing:-

- Local plastic plates: PKR 5-7 per plate (basic).

- Paper and biodegradable plates: PKR 20-50 per plate (premium).

3. Distribution Channels:-

-Wholesale Markets:- Key hubs in cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

-Retail Stores:- Supermarkets and local retailers.

 - E-commerce:- Platforms like Daraz are becoming popular for bulk purchases.

---

Challenges

1. Environmental Concerns:-

- Increasing awareness of plastic pollution impacts the demand for traditional plastic plates.

- Government regulations on single-use plastics may restrict growth.

2. Supply Chain Issues:-

- Raw material prices, especially for biodegradable plates, are volatile.

- Local manufacturing faces challenges from imports and fluctuating energy costs.

3. Competition:-

- High competition among local manufacturers keeps profit margins low.

---

*Opportunities*

1. Eco-Friendly Products :-

- Rising demand for biodegradable and compostable plates presents growth opportunities.

- Targeting environmentally conscious consumers with sustainable options.

2. Export Potential :-
 - With low production costs, Pakistan could become a key exporter of disposable plates to
neighboring regions.

3. Technological Advancements:-

- Investment in automated manufacturing can reduce costs and improve quality.

Market Outlook:-

The disposable plates market in Pakistan is poised for steady growth, particularly in urban
areas and among businesses. However, players in this market must address environmental
challenges and innovate with sustainable products to ensure long-term success.