When it comes to barbecuing, the choice between portable and non-portable barbecues often boils down to convenience, lifestyle, and specific needs. While traditional barbecues have their own charm and utility, portable barbecues have carved out a significant niche. They offer flexibility and a host of other advantages that make them a compelling choice for many.
In this blog, I will explain the differences between the two designs, as well as highlight how portable barbecues can give your business unique benefits that traditional barbecues may not be able to offer. I will also take time to disclose a case study where Cinders Barbecues was able to help a catering business achieve record profits at an energetic UK festival that took place in 2013.

What Makes a Portable BBQ Different from a Regular One?
Design and Structure
Portable barbecues are typically designed with compactness and lightness in mind. They often feature foldable legs, removable parts, and lightweight materials, making them easy to pack and transport. In contrast, regular barbecues are usually bulkier and made from heavier materials, as they are designed to stay put in one place.
Fuel Efficiency
Portable barbecues are engineered to be more fuel-efficient. They often have smaller cooking areas and better heat retention, which means you can use less fuel to achieve the same cooking results. This contrasts with regular barbecues, which may consume more fuel due to their larger size and less efficient design.
Mobility and Ease of Transport
The primary advantage of portable barbecues is their mobility. These barbecues can be easily carried to a park, beach, or even a friend’s backyard. They often come with carrying cases or built-in handles, unlike regular barbecues, which are fixed installations in a garden or patio.
Versatility in Usage
Portable barbecues are incredibly versatile. They can be used for camping, picnics, and even at home for small gatherings. Regular barbecues, while excellent for home use, lack this level of versatility due to their size and weight.
Advantages of Portable Barbecues
Convenience for Outdoor Activities
One of the standout benefits of portable barbecues is the convenience they offer for outdoor activities. Imagine heading to a scenic spot and setting up a barbecue in minutes. This convenience is unmatched by regular barbecues, which are stationary and require significant effort to relocate.
Space Saving
For those living in apartments or houses with limited outdoor space, portable barbecues are a godsend. They can be used on small balconies, terraces, or even indoors with proper ventilation. Regular barbecues simply cannot offer this level of flexibility in confined spaces.
Affordability
Portable barbecues are generally more affordable than their larger counterparts. They offer a cost-effective solution for those who want the joy of grilling without the investment in a large, permanent setup. Additionally, their fuel efficiency translates to savings over time.
Easy Maintenance and Cleaning
Cleaning a barbecue can be a chore, but portable barbecues simplify this process. They often have removable grills and parts that can be easily washed. Regular barbecues, with their larger size and fixed components, can be more challenging to clean and maintain.
Case Study: Paul Croft and Cinders Barbecues at Glastonbury Festival
Introduction to Paul Croft
Paul Croft, a seasoned catering consultant, is known for his expertise in outdoor events. In 2013, he was approached by a catering service preparing for the Glastonbury Festival. The challenge was to efficiently serve thousands of attendees with delicious barbecue dishes.
Recommending Cinders Barbecues
Paul recommended Cinders Barbecues for their reputation in providing high-quality portable barbecues. Cinders offered the catering service a mix of rental and purchase options, ensuring they had the right equipment without a significant upfront cost.
Success at Glastonbury Festival
The catering service, armed with Cinders' portable barbecues, was able to set up multiple cooking stations quickly. This flexibility allowed them to serve a variety of dishes efficiently, leading to record sales and profits. The success story of Glastonbury Festival highlighted the practical benefits of using portable barbecues in large-scale events.
About Cinders Barbecues
Products and Services
Cinders Barbecues specialise in portable barbecue solutions, offering a range of products designed for both personal and commercial use. Their barbecues are known for their durability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use.
Cinders Barbecues provide flexible options for their customers. Businesses can choose to rent portable barbecues for events, which is ideal for one-time or seasonal needs. Alternatively, purchasing options are available for those looking for a long-term investment.
Customer Testimonials
Paul Croft: "Cinders Barbecues provided exactly what we needed for the Glastonbury Festival. Their equipment is very reliable and their service was exceptional."
Catering Service Owner: "Renting from Cinders was the best decision my business could've made. The portable barbecues were easy to set up and helped us manage the crowd's increasing demands effortlessly."
End Note
Portable barbecues offer a range of advantages over traditional, stationary ones. Their design, fuel efficiency, mobility, and versatility make them an excellent choice for many barbecue enthusiasts and professionals alike. Companies like Cinders Barbecues have capitalized on these benefits, providing quality solutions that meet various needs.
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