Fire up the grill: interest in BBQs surges 556% ahead of summer

· BBQ prices have increased 8% *(£31) since February and are continuing this upwards trend

· Alongside the price rises, interest in BBQs has increased 556%

· Popularity of BBQs is up 35% on the same period last year

Brits looking to enjoy warmer weather by firing up a brand-new barbeque face paying over the odds. Research by impartial price and product comparison service, PriceSpy, reveals a year-on-year surge in the price and popularity of BBQs in the run up to summer.

PriceSpy’s data reveals that since February, barbeque prices have risen by 8% or £31. June records the highest average prices so far this year, with the costs still rising as the UK eases lockdown measures.

Figure one: Rise in BBQ prices from 1st February to 7th June 2020.

Lockdown grilling

With Brits spending more time at home, flame grilling is proving to be more and more popular. According to PriceSpy, in April alone, BBQ popularity saw a massive 556% increase as the UK entered the first full month of lockdown.

This trend has continued throughout the year. May saw an average week on week popularity increase of 12.6%. Compared to the same time the previous year, purchases are up by 35%.

Figure two: Price increases from 1st February till 7th June

PriceSpy UK managing director, Olof Karp, said: “With the combination of lockdown easing and warmer weather, Brits are looking to make the most of being at home and in the sun. Barbeques are becoming a go-to way of getting out the house and seeing loved ones, with far more people planning to light up the charcoal this year compared to last.

“Unfortunately, however, with increased demand, comes increased prices. Whilst prices are on the up, consumers should shop around, do their research and check price histories to make sure they're not paying over the odds.”

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Notes to editor

PriceSpy’s data includes product popularity statistics from February 1st till June 7th, 2020.

*Calculated by examining the average price increase on selected popular products on PriceSpy from February 1st till June 7th.

Media enquiries

For more information or to request any imagery:
Tushar Parmar/ 07428 584 468 / [email protected] Lizzie Elkin / 07824 832 106 / [email protected]