Major supermarkets are taking disposable barbecues off their shelves due to increased wildfire risks. Asda joined other retailers in removing single-use grills due to ongoing hot and dry weather in parts of the UK. Recent fires in areas like Dunwich, Suffolk, and the Rhondda Valley in Wales have prompted this action.

Retailers such as Co-op, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Wilko, and The Range have paused sales of disposable BBQs, while Aldi, Lidl, Waitrose, and M&S have not sold them since 2022. This move aligns with voluntary guidance from the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) until mid-August, as the country faces an extended heatwave.

Jon Pearce, the Labour MP for High Peak, commended major chains for halting sales and urged smaller retailers to follow suit. Pearce emphasized the need for government intervention to address climate change challenges. He called for mandatory enforcement of NFCC guidelines on disposable BBQs and stressed the importance of preparing for future summers.

Pearce advocated for a ban on disposable BBQs in public spaces and urged the government to proactively address environmental risks. Fire chiefs warned of the escalating pressure on emergency services due to wildfires, with over 700 incidents responded to in England and Wales this year. The NFCC advised against using disposable BBQs in open areas to minimize fire risks.

In response to the situation, Co-op and Tesco emphasized their commitment to responsible retailing by following NFCC guidelines and temporarily discontinuing disposable BBQ sales. Co-op highlighted its environmental responsibility and adherence to safety policies during extreme weather conditions.

By removing disposable barbecues from their inventory, retailers are prioritizing public safety and environmental conservation in light of the growing wildfire threat.