Thirty percent of grills sold have side burners to prepare sauces or warm beans. And, because nearly 60 percent of grills now are used year-round, new composite materials for shelves and handles resist weather damage. Year-round grilling is mostly practiced by owners of gas grills. Gas grill sales continue to increase market share over charcoal grills. A poor economy, escalating energy costs and fiscal uncertainty will translate to more home grilling and entertaining.
People take fewer vacations and go out to eat less.
They do steaks on the grill for family and friends. Grilling was popular even with a strong economy. Three out of four U.S. households own a grill, according to the barbecue association. This year, more pricey infrared burner grill models are available. Infrared grills heat by channeling a standard gas burner into a ceramic tile with more than 15,000 microscopic holes.