Building the smoker that now stands at the heart of my operation was a journey of creativity, problem-solving, and a deep commitment to quality craftsmanship. I built it from scratch, drawing inspiration from traditional methods while also incorporating modern elements to enhance efficiency. Every part of the smoker, from the firebox to the smoking chamber, was designed with the intention of delivering the perfect balance of heat and smoke to produce rich, flavorful food. The process was as much about personal learning as it was about creating a tool that would allow me to showcase the best of British produce in an exciting and unique way.
Along the way, I realised the importance of having the right equipment to make my work more efficient. After hosting numerous events and seeing firsthand the needs of both the catering side and the logistical side, I set about designing a fire grill and prep table that would complement the smoker and streamline the process. The grill needed to be adaptable, offering the flexibility to cook over an open flame, while the prep table had to be robust enough to handle all the ingredients and tools that are essential for turning out high-quality dishes. I used materials that would not only last but also allow for easy transportation, such as powder-coated frames and castor wheels for maneuverability, ensuring the setup could be easily moved and set up for any event.
As I continue to expand, the vision is clear: I want to build a sustainable business that combines top-quality barbecues, delicious catering, and ethically sourced British meat. The goal is to create a business model where everything from the BBQ equipment to the meat supply comes full circle. By working directly with local farmers, I can ensure that the meat is of the highest quality, ethically raised, and produced with care, supporting British agriculture and small-scale farming in the process. The events I host, whether it’s a wedding, a local cookout, or a corporate gathering, will all tell the story of how British produce can shine when treated with respect and cooked with passion.
One of the key elements of this venture is to champion British food in a way that not only celebrates its diversity and richness but also makes it accessible to the local community. By hosting events that highlight British cuisine—whether it’s a smoky BBQ, slow-cooked meats, or seasonal vegetables—I aim to educate and excite people about the incredible food that comes from the land around us. This isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating experiences that bring people together and foster a deeper appreciation for where their food comes from.
Ultimately, I see this as more than just a business; it’s a movement to promote sustainability, support local farmers, and showcase the very best of British food culture. I’m excited to keep building, evolving, and growing, whether it’s refining my smoker, offering new BBQ equipment for sale, or hosting community events that inspire others to connect with food in a more meaningful way. This journey is just beginning, and the future is full of opportunities to bring people together and celebrate British produce, British craftsmanship, and the joy of sharing a good meal.
– Fred
AX Barbecue
We don’t just cook over fire—we build the tools for it. Our range of heavy-duty fire grills, smokers, and barbecue equipment is designed and crafted by UK farmers and fabricators, ensuring durability, performance, and a connection to the land.