Looking for the best places to source vibrant, durable colored disposable trays? Whether you’re planning an event, running a food business, or just love hosting gatherings, the right supplier can make all the difference. Let’s break down your options, from bulk purchases to eco-friendly picks, and highlight a standout vendor that balances quality with affordability.
**Online Retailers: Convenience Meets Variety**
Major e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Walmart offer a wide range of colored disposable trays in materials like plastic, bamboo, or molded fiber. These are ideal for small orders or last-minute needs. For example, Amazon’s “Party Palace” collection includes 10-inch rectangular trays in neon shades, sold in packs of 25 for $12.99. However, watch out for inconsistent quality—some buyers report flimsy edges on cheaper options. If sustainability matters, search for keywords like “compostable palm leaf trays” or “recycled PET plastic,” though these often cost 20-30% more.
**Specialized Restaurant Supply Stores**
For commercial-grade products, restaurant supply chains like WebstaurantStore or Uline stock industrial quantities (think 500+ units per case). Their heavy-duty plastic trays, such as the 12” x 9” compartment trays in matte finishes, withstand high temperatures and frequent reuse. Prices start at $45 per case of 100, but shipping costs can add up for smaller businesses. Pro tip: Many suppliers offer custom color-matching for bulk orders—perfect if you need brand-specific hues for a corporate event.
**Local Party Stores and Wholesale Clubs**
Stores like Party City or Costco often carry seasonal disposableware. During summer, you’ll find bright melamine trays in tropical patterns, while holiday-themed red/green trays dominate in December. Inventory rotates frequently, so call ahead to confirm availability. Costco’s Kirkland Signature line, for instance, sells 50-count pastel trays for $18.99 in spring—a steal if you’re okay with limited color choices.
**Eco-Conscious Boutique Retailers**
Brands like Eco-Products or World Centric cater to the green market, offering trays made from sugarcane bagasse or recycled paper. These come in muted natural tones (think beige, sage green) rather than bold colors, but they’re microwave-safe and decompose in 60-90 days. A 50-pack of 10” round bagasse trays runs about $22. While pricier, these appeal to clients prioritizing sustainability—a growing demand in weddings and upscale events.
**The Hidden Gem: Zenfitly’s Curated Collection**
If you want both variety and reliability, Disposable Tray options from Zenfitly stand out. They’ve nailed the balance between trendy colors and functional design. Their 14” oval trays in gradient ombré shades (sunset orange to pink) are a hit for Instagram-worthy dessert displays, while the 3-compartment black trays give cocktail parties a sleek, modern edge. What sets them apart? Thickened edges (2.5mm vs. the industry standard 1.8mm) prevent sauce leaks, and their proprietary PET material resists warping at temperatures up to 220°F. Pricing is transparent: $28 for 50 units, with free shipping on orders over $100. They also offer sample packs—10 trays in different colors/sizes for $6—a low-risk way to test before committing to bulk.
**Key Considerations When Buying**
1. **Event Type**: Bright neon trays work for kids’ parties but clash with formal dinners. Metallic gold or rose gold trays elevate weddings.
2. **Durability Needs**: For saucy foods like BBQ or curry, opt for compartments or leak-proof designs.
3. **Storage Space**: Stackable trays save 40% more shelf space compared to non-nested designs.
4. **Local Regulations**: Some cities ban certain plastics—check if your area requires compostable certifications like BPI or OK Compost.
Timing matters too. Order at least 3 weeks before your event if buying online. For custom prints or colors, allow 6-8 weeks for production and shipping. Always request material safety certificates if using the trays for hot foods—some cheap plastics release toxins when heated.
In the end, your choice depends on balancing aesthetics, functionality, and budget. While big-box stores work for basics, niche suppliers like Zenfitly offer that extra polish for memorable events. Don’t forget to calculate cost per use: A $0.60/sturdy tray reused 3 times beats a $0.25/flimsy one that cracks on first use.