Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JUNE 2023 40 T he Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo, the nation's largest trade show for all things flame, brought a live experience to Louisville, Kentucky this year as manufacturers unveiled and showcased their newest barbecues, outdoor kitchens, grilling accessories, firepits, indoor fireplaces, and much more. "As we gather in Louisville this week, we're delighted for retailers and distributors to connect with manufacturers as spring grilling and patio season is within sight and plans get underway for fall fireplace season," said Emily McGee, director of communications of the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. "It's an exciting time to be in this industry. These trends represent the innovation, technology, and future of our industry." According to HPBA, the whole outdoor kitchen continues to have its moment. Consumers are expanding their homes and patios to incorporate full backyard kitchens and entertainment for the whole family. HPBA'S FIVE TOP TRENDS ON DISPLAY AT THE 44TH EXPO 1. Take it easy "Technology continues to enhance and simplify the way we enjoy grilling our favorite meal or relaxing by the fireplace," said Emily McGee, director of communications for HPBA. "Retailers continue to find unique ways to innovate our experiences and keep us connected to our home even while we are away." 2. Customization Unique fire pits and fireplaces captured eyes at this year's show. From personalized fire pits such as a guitar, to those fancy long, horizontal electric fireplaces, retailers continue to push the envelope in terms of design and eye appeal. 3. Entertainer's Paradise The backyard patio continues to be an entertainer's paradise with games, appliances, and customization to serve everyone's needs. A new feature at HPBA Expo this year is recreation square – from pool tables to darts and poker tables, the entertaining opportunities are endless. "We're excited to welcome more retailers under the HPBA umbrella, including recreation," said Emily McGee, director of communications for HPBA. "Curating an experience both inside and outside of the home is important to our members and homeowners." 4. Sustainability Retailers are paying close attention to the materials they are using to build their outdoor kitchens, as well as the materials to package their products. Instead of using foam in the packaging of materials, they are opting for paper that is easier to recycle and gentler on the planet. 5. Pizza, Pizza, Pizza "If you haven't added a pizza oven to your backyard yet, now is a great time to add one to your patio," said Emily McGee, director of communications for HPBA. "From larger statement-piece ovens, to smaller ovens that are easier to move, retailers showcased a large variety of pizza ovens at this year's expo." BY THE NUMBERS, COMPARED TO LAST YEAR: Total registration: 21% up Attendee registrations: 22% up Attendee companies: 18% up Buying entities: 11% up Mark your calendars for HPBExpo 2024 in Nashville, Tennessee at the Music City Center February 13-15, 2024. Visit www.hpbexpo.com for more information. T R A D E S H O W [ N E W S ] HPBEXPO 2023 JUST WRAPPED UP... AND IT WAS A HOME RUN! Top trends at 2023 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo: highlighting new ways to entertain and enjoy your backyard RO

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