Barbecue Mania: The Grilling Season is Booming and Becoming More Sustainable Than Ever

The grilling season has become increasingly popular, with more people spending money on barbecuing than ever before. As temperatures rise, many people turn to the grill for dinner. Today, there is a wide variety of grilling options available, from small electric grills for balconies to fully equipped outdoor kitchens. With so many choices, there’s a grill for everyone and every budget.

According to Marina Freundl, the Austria boss of gas grill manufacturer Napoleon, the barbecue boom began around six years ago and has led to an increase in sales for many manufacturers. Companies like Weber-Stephen, the market leader in classic kettle grills, have experienced significant growth in sales due to the growing popularity of premium grills. This growth is not only due to higher sales but also because people are willing to spend more money on leisure activities like barbecuing.

Weber-Stephen’s entry-level kettle grills cost around 300 euros while Napoleon’s gas grills start at roughly 400 euros. The market for grills and accessories is booming, with customers willing to pay for accessories like tuxedo accessories, stainless steel grill trays and rib racks. Meat producers are also benefiting from the barbecue boom, with sausages being the most popular grilled meat product followed by pork and chicken.

When it comes to heating a grill, opinions differ between charcoal and briquettes enthusiasts who prefer smoky aromas and a special ambiance. However, gas and electric grills have become 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 or PEFC or buying from local charcoal burners for a more environmentally friendly option