March 12, 2020
Top Trends At 2020 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo: Convenience And Tradition
Crescent City Shines with Manufacturers Latest Innovations at 2020 Show
NEW ORLEANS (March 12, 2020) – Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo, the nation’s largest trade show for all things flame, is on parade this week in New Orleans, as manufacturers unveil and showcase their newest barbecues, outdoor kitchens, grilling accessories, fire pits, indoor/outdoor fireplaces and much more.
“We are excited for retailers and distributors nationwide to connect with manufacturers just as spring grilling sales begin nationwide and as store owners formalize their fall fireplace and heath sales plans,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO of HPBA.
“HPBExpo is also the ideal opportunity to peek at what’s coming to living rooms and outdoor kitchens and patios in the year ahead,” Goldman continued. “Based on what we’re seeing the showroom floor and hearing in hallway conversations, expect products and accessories that offer convenience without sacrificing authenticity.”
HPBA shares five top trends on display at the 41st Expo:
- Stone and wood accents return. Outdoor kitchens and indoor fireplaces are accented with either real or authentically-replicated stone bricks and/or wood, a return to more traditional furnishings. In addition, gas and electric indoor fireplaces are centered with even more realistic logs, with a particular preference toward birchwood.
- Pergolas gain prominence. As part of the woodsy movement, pergolas are trending at Expo. One in 10 grill owners have a full outdoor kitchen, and exhibitors are displaying how these overhead structures that offer a touch of shade and a bounty of beauty can conform to myriad outdoor kitchen styles.
- Silver is the color of the year. After several years of grill manufactures boasting bold colors for their new products, this year’s showroom floor is dominated with a return traditional chrome silver, from starter to the most premium barbecues.
- White kitchen spaces emerging. While grills return to silver, look for more kitchen islands and cabinetry in white. The trend for Instagram friendly white cooking spaces inside is moving outdoors as manufacturers develop sturdier materials designed to withstand elements.
- Specialty grills on display. Nearly two in five grill owners plan to purchase another grill this year, and many manufacturers are betting that consumer’s second – or third – grill will be a specialty grill, focusing on one or two cooking techniques. Exhibitors are proudly displaying wood fire pizza ovens and deep fryers. “Even a crawfish boiler or two has been spotted,” Goldman concluded. “We are – after all – in New Orleans.”
About the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA)
The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), based in Arlington, Va., is the North American industry association for manufacturers, retailers, distributors, representatives, service firms and allied associates for all types of barbecue, patio and hearth appliances, fuels and accessories. The association provides professional member services and industry support in education, statistics, government relations, marketing, advertising and consumer education.
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Media Contact: Eric Davis, FLM Harvest, 612.202.9407, eric@flmharvest.com