According to The NPD Group, outdoor living products such as firepits and gazebos have become a potential bright spot for those consumers who are showing signs of 'cocooning' and scaling back on summer vacation plans. In addition, one-third of consumers surveyed indicate their desire for outdoor living has increased. Various options in type and price point make barbecues/grills the most popular outdoor entertaining product owned.

According to Mark Delaney, director of NPD's Home industry sector, "The BBQ/grill has become a status symbol among higher income households." Furthermore, "Garage storage products are a potential source of incremental sales -- getting a lot of exposure in Do-It-Yourself publications lately, and attracting a very appealing demographic," said Delaney.

Source: The NPD Group