New Products and Latest Trends Heat Up the Barbecue Industry
ATLANTA, March 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) unveils the hottest new products and trends the barbecue industry has to offer today during HPBExpo, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. With more than 300 exhibitors and nearly 5,000 attendees, the annual Expo is the largest indoor-outdoor living show in North America showcasing the latest must-have products for barbecues, outdoor kitchens and tailgates.
With 86 percent of North American households owning a grill or smoker, and the majority (62 percent) of grill owners using their grills year round, the barbecue industry remains hot. Shipments of grills and smokers reached more than 14.7 million in 2011 alone.
"With the continued popularity of outdoor cooking, manufacturers are looking for new ways to keep the spark of this favorite activity alive. The focus of 2012 is all-in-one work areas, multi-functional grills, keeping safety a top priority and continuing to innovate accessories for easier and fun cooking experiences," said Leslie Wheeler, HPBA communications director. "From the grilling novice to the most seasoned chef, this year's Expo offers something for everyone."