August 22, 2025, 2:36 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
In midsummer, grilling has become a staple ritual for many—and often, charcoal needs to be replenished. Those heading to the supermarket almost automatically encounter the large bags: They’re placed right in front of the store or at the entrance. But why do supermarkets position grill charcoal so prominently? myHOMEBOOK investigated this question.
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Charcoal Is a Seasonal Product
Many would probably prefer to grill year-round—but the fact is, grilling is mostly done during the warm season. That’s why supermarkets stock charcoal especially at this time. It is a seasonal product, but unlike other items such as those for Easter or Christmas, it can’t be assigned to a specific department, according to Thomas Bonrath from Rewe Markt GmbH to myHOMEBOOK. While Easter bunnies fit into the candy section, there’s no designated area for charcoal.
This is also another reason why charcoal is often placed in front of or at the entrance of the supermarket. Since it’s a seasonal product, there’s typically not enough space inside the store.
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Charcoal Is Robust
Unlike chocolate or fruit, charcoal is relatively robust. It is “insensitive to drafts, temperature fluctuations, and sunlight, making it better suited for placement at the entrance than other food or non-food items,” says Bonrath.
Customers Are Encouraged to Buy
There are several reasons why charcoal or even potting soil, balcony plants, or in winter, de-icing salt and firewood are placed in front of a supermarket or at the entrance. A key reason is that stores want to draw attention to these items by placing them at the entrance, enticing consumers into the store.