As the temperatures rise, it seems like people have an insatiable appetite for grilling food over a flame. The barbecue season is in full swing, and more money is being spent on grilling than ever before. From small electric grills for balconies to fully equipped outdoor kitchens, there is a grill for everyone and every budget.
According to Marina Freundl, the Austria boss of gas grill manufacturer Napoleon, the barbecue boom has been going strong for the past six years. This growth has led to increased sales for many manufacturers in the industry, including Weber-Stephen, the market leader in classic kettle grills. The market for grills and accessories is booming, with customers willing to pay extra for accessories like tuxedo accessories, stainless steel grill trays, and rib racks.
Meat producers are also benefiting from the barbecue craze, with sausages being the most popular grilled meat product followed by pork and chicken. However, opinions differ on how to heat a grill. Charcoal and briquettes enthusiasts love smoky aromas and a special ambiance but gas and electric grills are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of use, better temperature regulation and shorter lead time. Gas and electricity also have environmental benefits as they emit less pollution compared to charcoal. Sustainability expert Johannes Heiml recommends using charcoal with sustainability seals like FSC and PEFC or buying from local charcoal burners for a more environmentally friendly option.
