Tap Into the £1.2 Billion Solid Fuel Market
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With the rising cost of living, more people are entertaining at home, making indoor and outdoor
spaces more important than ever. Spending on alfresco dining is growing, with 90% of UK
households owning a barbecue. From fire pits to American-style smokers, British families are
embracing outdoor living, and this summer will be no different.
Eco-conscious grilling is on the rise, with more consumers choosing natural lumpwood charcoal
and kiln-dried wood as sustainable, clean-burning fuels. By stocking these products, garden
centres can meet evolving demand and tap into the £1.2 billion solid fuel market, driving sales
and positioning themselves as key destinations for outdoor living essentials.
Why you need to stock kiln-dried wood
Kiln-dried wood is a highly profitable item for retailers due to its premium pricing, lower shipping
costs and customer demand. The kiln drying process removes excess moisture, making the
wood lighter and reducing transportation expenses while also preventing defects like warping
and insect infestation.
Retailers can leverage their premium status to justify higher markups and create upselling
opportunities. Many of your competitors won’t stock kiln-dried wood, which makes it a great
product to strengthen market positioning. Altogether, the combination of high demand, reduced
costs and upselling potential makes kiln-dried wood a lucrative item for retailers.
Why you should stock a variety of charcoal
Barbecuers vary from novices using easy light briquettes to enthusiasts opting for lumpwood,
but all of them need charcoal. Its strong seasonal demand, repeat purchases and excellent
margins make it a standout product for garden centres. Premium options command higher
prices, and charcoal’s long shelf life and low storage needs make it easy to stock. Plus, it
creates cross-selling opportunities with barbecues, fire pits and garden furniture.
By offering a variety of charcoal and kiln-dried wood, you can diversify beyond plants and tools,
tapping into both summer and winter sales. Charcoal peaks during barbecue season, while kiln-
dried wood appeals to customers seeking reliable firewood for winter months after a long
summer of fuelling their firepits and smokers. Both products are cost-effective to stock and
deliver strong returns, making them a smart addition to your revenue strategy.
Why Quality Matters
Stocking premium fuel builds trust and loyalty. High-quality charcoal burns hotter, cleaner with
no additives, ideal for eco-conscious grilling. Kiln-dried wood, with its low moisture content,
burns more efficiently than seasoned alternatives, producing less smoke and consistent heat.
Offering quality fuels positions your store as a reliable source, encouraging repeat visits and
word-of-mouth referrals.
Join the Homefire Family
Now is the perfect time to plan for the season and connect with trusted suppliers. These
products offer year-round sales potential, broad customer appeal and high margins.
Our offer to readers
10%* off all orders made before 30th April with code “OUTDOORLIVING25”
Call: 01623 860 228
Email: Trade@homefire.co.uk
*£300 MOQ. 3–5 day delivery. No deferred deliveries. Discount applies to IA prices. Offer ends
30th April 2025.