The UK is notorious for its unpredictable weather, but that doesn't stop us from having a good old BBQ. We're a resilient bunch, and we're no strangers to setting up gazebos, rain ponchos, and even umbrellas over the grill to keep the flames alive. We're talking about BBQ lamb, black pudding, or even cauliflower steaks for the veggies in the crowd. And let's not forget the vast array of homemade BBQ sauces and rubs that are now gracing our tables, bringing that extra layer of flavor. It's all about hearty meals, good company, and a determination to grill come rain or shine. It's a celebration of flavors, an opportunity to showcase your culinary skills, and a reminder that we Brits know how to have a good time.
The British BBQ boom
The BBQ trend has taken off like a rocket. In 2021, over 150 million BBQ meals were consumed in the UK, according to the National BBQ Week, and that's not even counting the countless impromptu backyard cookouts and sizzling gatherings with friends and family.
Now, in 2023, it's clear that this isn't just a flash in the pan (pun intended). The numbers keep climbing. Grill manufacturers have reported a whopping 20% increase in sales, with more and more people investing in high-quality grills, smokers, and accessories to up their BBQ game. We're not just talking about your regular kettle grill here – we're talking state-of-the-art equipment that would make a Texan pitmaster proud.
Fire Up The Flavours
The growth of BBQ in the UK isn't just about burgers and sausages anymore. It's a full-blown culinary movement. People are experimenting with flavors, marinades, and techniques that would make Gordon Ramsay take notice. We're seeing more and more people diving into the world of slow-cooked meats, succulent ribs, brisket, and pulled pork that melts in your mouth. The BBQ revolution is all about exploring new tastes and pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the grill.
But just how big is this BBQ explosion?
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Sales of BBQ Equipment: According to data from the UK's Office for National Statistics (ONS), sales of BBQ equipment have been on a tear. In 2020, during the first COVID-19 lockdown, sales of barbecues and outdoor grilling gear jumped by a staggering 112% compared to the previous year. That's right, more people started to explore the wonders of outdoor cooking right in their own backyards.
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Meat, Meat, and More Meat: Brits are gobbling up meat like it's going out of style (which it definitely isn't). The Meat Advisory Panel reports that red meat consumption in the UK increased by around 4% in 2020, mainly due to the pandemic-induced BBQ fever. Beef, pork, and chicken have been the stars of the grill, with classic burgers and sausages still reigning supreme.
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Vegan & Veggie BBQ: While meat remains a BBQ favorite, there's a growing trend towards plant-based BBQ options. In 2021, the Vegan Society noted a 37% increase in the number of vegans in the UK, and this shift has extended to the world of grilling. Plant-based burgers, veggie kebabs, and grilled portobello mushrooms are becoming BBQ staples.
Why the BBQ Obsession?
What's fueling this BBQ obsession? Well, there are several factors at play:
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Lockdown Grillin' During Covid 19: With lockdowns in place during the past summers, many people found themselves with extra time at home. The BBQ became a fantastic way to break the monotony, offering a fun and tasty escape. But even as the lockdowns eased, people just just couldn't let go of their favourite pastime with their loved ones. So, the BBQ trend continued to grow, despite the lift of lockdowns.
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Foodie Culture: The rise of foodie culture, fueled by social media and TV shows, has encouraged people to experiment with their cooking. BBQ is a fantastic platform for culinary creativity, offering endless possibilities for flavor combinations and cooking techniques. The internet has played a significant role in spreading BBQ love. Social media platforms, YouTube, and food blogs have created a strong sense of community, where grill enthusiasts share tips, recipes, and drool-worthy pictures of their creations.
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Outdoor Dining: There's something magical about dining al fresco. The BBQ allows people to enjoy the great outdoors while indulging in delicious meals. It's a great way to socialize with friends and family safely. Pre-pandemic, BBQ festivals, competitions, and events were becoming increasingly popular, and they're expected to make a strong comeback. These events offer a chance for BBQ lovers to connect, learn from the pros, and taste some mouth-watering creations.
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Healthier Cooking: Grilling isn't just about mouthwatering flavors; it's also a healthier way to cook. Excess fats drip away, and you can use less oil, making it a more nutritious choice for many. The influence of celebrity chefs like Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay has also contributed to the BBQ craze. They've been sharing their BBQ expertise, giving everyone the confidence to try their hand at grilling.
An expanding menu
The growth of BBQ in the UK isn't just about burgers and sausages anymore. It's a full-blown culinary movement. People are experimenting with flavors, marinades, and techniques that would make Gordon Ramsay take notice. We're seeing more and more people diving into the world of slow-cooked meats, succulent ribs, brisket, and pulled pork that melts in your mouth. The BBQ revolution is all about exploring new tastes and pushing the boundaries of what's possible on the grill.
The rise in BBQ gatherings and street food markets has also played a massive role. BBQ festivals, food trucks, and pop-up stalls have been popping up all over the place. The diverse and delicious range of food options, from traditional British BBQ to international flavors, can make your taste buds tingle.
Not to mention that, over the past couple of years, BBQ playlists and craft beer collections have been given the attention they deserve. People are curating BBQ soundtracks that rival the food's sizzle, and craft breweries are popping up all over the place to complement the smoky flavors with unique brews. It's all about creating the perfect ambiance to enhance the BBQ experience.
What's even more exciting is that people are embracing BBQ as a year-round activity. It's not just a summer thing anymore. With the popularity of pellet grills, electric smokers, and other indoor/outdoor cooking equipment, you can enjoy BBQ in the dead of winter if you want. No more waiting for that one sunny weekend in June!
Be ready for next year
Missed out on the BBQ season in 2023? Make sure you’re ready for 2024!
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Bespoke packaging design
Looking for a quick win? Why not remarket your product as BBQ friendly next summer? Our in-house packaging experts can help create the perfect pack to inspire consumers to branch out from traditional BBQ favourites which are sure to be in huge demand. Whatever you’re looking to do, talk to the experts in flexible, full line solutions. Our pre-sales consultancy service is available to help all our prospects make the best choice for their business, by giving all the information you need to make an informed decision. Get in touch today for a free consultancy!
