R-PET pricing in the US firmed into early May as demand patterns shifted amid higher virgin PET costs. Early April tightness from reduced flake yields gave way to relief by mid-month. Late April uplift in virgin PET encouraged converters to pivot toward recycled inputs. Beverage packaging and thermoforming buyers maintained steady procurement aligned with recycled-content mandates, though some paused fresh purchases and diversified supplier engagement. Weekly assessments showed a shift from a mixed April into an upward start to May, with solid demand for clear flakes used in bottles and recycled-content packaging, supported by persistent stocking patterns among converters. Substitution toward recycled feedstock increased amid rising virgin PET concerns, supported by wash-line operations and Midwest capacity additions, in tandem with improved collection rates nationwide. Bottle-bale availability kept feedstock costs elevated, while energy costs also remained volatile amidst Middle East Geopolitics. The outlook signals a modest near-term downturn before a late-summer rebound, driven by recycling stability, substitution dynamics, and regional supply changes as demand rebalances.
