Requip’d Turns Hockey Sticks into BBQ Tools

Hat Trick BBQ, a company now known as Requip’d, operates in the US and Canada and has a great “green” story. They accumulate broken hockey sticks that would otherwise go into landfills, and create unique and interesting products that are a must-have for hockey fans, players, parents of hockey players, and those who love to BBQ. Which covers a pretty broad spectrum of society.

Requip’d is a fascinating story of entrepreneurship, sustainability, and the intersection of sports and recycling. The company was founded by two hockey-loving dads who saw an opportunity to turn a passion for hockey into a business with a positive environmental impact. Hockey players, especially those in the NHL, AHL and the NCAA, go through a lot of hockey sticks. These sticks are made from carbon fiber, which, while lightweight and durable, is not biodegradable. This means that when a stick breaks, it usually ends up in a landfill, contributing to environmental waste. Partnering with NHL, AHL, NCAA and other teams and manufacturers around North America they began upcycling thousands of hockey sticks into unique high quality BBQ sets. 

The story of Requip’d took another significant and heartwarming turn when it was sold in October 2021 to ABLE Force Employment, a not for profit, 501( c) 3 in Richboro, Pa.  This decision not only aligned with Requip’d’s commitment to community and social impact but also added a new dimension to its work—one that emphasized inclusion, empowerment, and the creation of meaningful opportunities for individuals who often face challenges in the traditional job market.

Requip’d Tools: Thoughtfully Designed

Their unique BBQ sets are a remarkable example of creativity and sustainability, crafted by talented adults with special needs using broken hockey sticks. Each piece of the set is thoughtfully designed, turning discarded sports equipment into functional, eco-friendly culinary tools.

To date, they have repurposed over thousands of hockey sticks into BBQ sets and bottle openers. The company has also teamed up with stick manufacturers like Easton, CCM, Reebok, and Warrior. In addition, Requip’d is a proud sponsor of Ice Hockey in Harlem, The Los Angeles Kings Sled Hockey Team, The Buffalo Sabres Sled Hockey Team, and the Connecticut Wolfpack Sled Hockey Team.

The Requip’d product line consists of items useful for the BBQ chef, such as a fork and brush set and bottle openers (they also do custom orders). Their products make a unique gift for the hockey and barbecue fan alike.

For more information, visit their website.