Barbecue Grill Sales Up 2.5 Percent in 2004

The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association anticipates 15 million barbecue grills sold in 2005.

According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), 14.5 million new grills were sold in 2004, a 2.5 percent increase over 2003. HPBA expects a 15 million shipment level in 2005.

?EUR??,,????'??Generally improving economic conditions, new housing starts hitting 1.9 million, and second home purchasing on track to double by 2010, are all strong indicators for substantially more shipments,?EUR??,,????'?? said Don Johnson, HPBA director of market research. ?EUR??,,????'??Perhaps the largest single factor is the $200 billion U.S. homeowners spent on remodeling and renovation this year. More that a third of that went for outdoor amenities,?EUR??,,????'?? Johnson explained.