From grills, smokers and outdoor cookers, to state-of-the-art outdoor kitchens and patio products, the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) unveiled new products and trends during the opening of HPBExpo.
“As more and more consumers take the joys of cooking outdoors year round, the industry’s manufacturers are launching new and innovative products to make cooking any dish – from appetizer to dessert – easy no matter your location,” said Sue Crosby, HPBA communications director. “This year’s Expo showcases the endless possibilities of outdoor cooking and features an exciting variety of products for grillers of all experience levels.”
As the May-September peak outdoor cooking season approaches, homeowners can expect to see grills, smokers and outdoor living products in high demand. The trends that will drive sales during 2014 and beyond include:
Wood Pellets on the Rise
Made from compressed sawdust, wood pellets are heating up grills and smokers across the country. An all-natural product, wood pellets produce a strong, slow-burning source of heat that gives a unique smoky flavor to foods. This year, new wood pellet grills and smokers are making it easier to cook outdoors no matter what time of year.
Portability
Industry manufactures are making it easier to take the party anywhere – from parking lots to campsites – by making light-weight and durable grills and smokers. Collapsible, small portable parts and all-terrain features make it simple to cook and smoke foods on-the-go.
Ovens in the Outdoors
New innovations are making it easier to do anything you can do inside, outside. With outdoor gas and wood-fired ovens, cooking enthusiasts can make a pizza, roast vegetables, bake desserts and more all from the convenience of the backyard. Outdoor ovens provide an extra cooking space during the holidays and allow families to cook their favorite dishes while enjoying the outdoors any season of the year.
Keeping Accessories Organized
When entertaining in the outdoors, it’s important to have everything you need right at your fingertips. New innovations such as countertops with drawer storage and drink coolers make it easy to enjoy any party outside. With full sinks, refrigerators and lighting, you can bring all the amenities of your indoor kitchen, outdoors.
Pictured: A Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet grill
