Whether it be a restaurant, bar, café, pub or hotel, if the sun is shining in the UK, customers want to be outside – simply because of the rarity!
Tips for outside furniture
If there is space available, operators should make use of it by encouraging customers to dine or drink outside. Through spring and summer, this is important for businesses to consider as it maximises the number of potential custom.
Having the right outdoor commercial furniture to battle with the unpredictable elements of British weather is a key element of any venue’s furnishings. With outdoor furniture coming in a range of different materials, it can be difficult to know which is best for your business. To help, we’ve put together a guide of the pros of the main three materials: wood, metal, rattan and plastic.
Commercial metal furniture and seating
Perhaps the most popular outdoor furniture material is metal. Metal chairs and tables are a good option for resisting the heavy rain and longer lengths of sunshine. Stainless steel and aluminium outdoor furniture are also light enough to be easily rearranged by yourself or by customers. This means that they can be easily stored away through winter and won’t take long to set up.
Wooden furniture for outdoors
Typically associated with pubs who have wooden benches and tables, wood is a versatile and rustically attractive choice. The drawback of wooden outdoor furniture is undoubtedly the high maintenance that is required to keep it looking in good condition. Decay and rot through very wet conditions are common, which is why we generally advise customers to steer away and use wood-effect outdoor furniture.
Plastic furniture for commercial use
Made from durable and water-resistant Polypropylene material, these chairs are highly versatile for use in a range of different outdoor spaces. Because plastic chairs are available in so many different styles and colours, operators can be unique with their choice, too.
The material was previously seen as a cheaper choice by customers but with more innovate designs and finishes, this problem is fading. If the budget is low, plastic seating might be the best option for value for money.
Rattan furniture for business
Rattan is a strong, flexible type of vine used to create this seating and tabling. The furniture is stylish, lightweight and because of the weave used, extremely comfortable without the need for cushions.
Commercial outdoor furniture advice
Each has their own merits and as a business owner, you need to choose the correct fit for your unique needs. If you need advice on weighing up which would be best for your establishment, get in touch with our team 0116 2983 641 who will be able to provide assistance.
All of our commercial outdoor furniture is available to browse here. With seasons changing, now is the right time for operators to think about updating their outdoor furniture.