Thinking of Buying a Barbecue & Barbecue Equipment Business in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask
The Australian barbecue and outdoor cooking equipment sector is closely tied to the broader household appliance and outdoor leisure industries.
In 2024, total industry revenue for domestic appliance repair and maintenance reached $2.08 billion, employing over 12,600 people across 2,865 establishments.
While this category includes ovens, stoves, and kitchen appliances, the barbecue segment reflects similar market drivers: strong demand for premium, high-tech models, shifting consumer preferences towards outdoor lifestyles, and sustainability-focused purchasing decisions.
Revenue is expected to contract at an annualised 1.4% through 2029 across the appliance category, with opportunities emerging for businesses specialising in high-end, durable, and eco-friendly barbecue equipment.
1. Is the Business Financially Sustainable and Profitable?
Why It Matters:
Barbecue businesses generate revenue from equipment sales, accessories, fuel products, and sometimes after-sales repair and maintenance.
Profitability is strongest in premium product categories, such as stainless steel outdoor kitchens and smart barbecues, where consumers see long-term value.
What to Check:
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Revenue mix and margins – Determine whether sales rely on low-cost, mass-market barbecues or premium models with higher margins.
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Supplier and import costs – Rising metal prices and a strong Australian dollar impact component costs, particularly for imported barbecues.
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After-sales and service revenue – Assess opportunities to capture ongoing income from repairs, spare parts, or cleaning services.
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Inventory and seasonality – Evaluate how the business manages stock turnover during summer peaks versus off-season demand.
2. How Competitive is the Business’s Market Position?
Why It Matters:
The barbecue and outdoor equipment industry is highly competitive, with department stores, hardware chains like Bunnings, and specialist retailers all vying for market share.
Businesses that differentiate through premium offerings, eco-friendly fuels, or bundled outdoor living packages (furniture plus barbecues) maintain stronger margins.
What to Check:
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Market positioning – Is the business competing on price or specialising in high-end outdoor cooking solutions?
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Customer base – Review sales to households versus commercial clients such as restaurants and caterers.
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Digital and retail integration – Assess whether the business sells through e-commerce platforms, showrooms, or hybrid models.
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Brand reputation – Evaluate online reviews, warranties offered, and service reputation, which strongly influence buyer loyalty.
3. Is the Business Aligned with Industry Trends and Future Growth?
Why It Matters:
Consumer demand is shifting towards outdoor entertaining, energy-efficient cooking appliances, and smart-connected barbecues.
Sustainability is also shaping purchasing, with eco-friendly fuels (pellet grills, electric barbecues) gaining traction.
What to Check:
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Product innovation – Confirm if the business stocks smart grills, energy-efficient burners, or modular outdoor kitchens.
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Sustainability credentials – Review eco-friendly product ranges, recyclable materials, and alignment with Australia’s growing green consumer base.
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Revenue diversification – Assess expansion into accessories, outdoor dining sets, catering equipment, or premium imported brands.
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Regulatory compliance – Ensure gas and electrical products meet Australian safety standards under the Electrical Safety Act 2002.
Ready to Invest in a Thriving Barbecue & Barbecue Equipment Business?
With Australians embracing outdoor entertaining and premium lifestyle purchases, the barbecue equipment sector presents strong long-term opportunities.
However, success depends on profitability management, competitive differentiation, and alignment with sustainability and smart appliance trends.
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