Commercial outdoor furniture can be supplied in a huge variety of designs and finishes; some is also available in retail outlets, some is available to order only (often with significant minimum orders), whilst some has specific "contract" specifications, usually making it more robust. A small proportion of commercial outdoor furniture is built for marine environments, where salt in the air is particularly corrosive.

UK hospitality operators have to consider the winter months when their commercial outdoor furniture often remains unused; if it is not stored inside, it is likely to deteriorate; for this reason, it can be preferable to opt for stacking chairs and tables with flip-tops (which nest together) for compact storage. A few four-legged tables can neatly stack on top of each other.

Other considerations that are easy to overlook are the colour and finish of table tops (in particular) - black finishes can get too hot to touch in direct sunlight, while some metals and white surfaces cause unpleasant bright reflections.

Materials matter too - hardwood is one of our favourite outdoor materials, as it ages beautifully, although it also needs regular care - usually a wash-down and then a re-oil. Convincing wood-looking plastic alternatives are also available. Plastic is rightly popular, but dark colours can bleach in direct sun (the correct UV specification can minimise this). Look out for drainage holes - without these, water can puddle and leave a muddy watermark. Cast iron is usually used in pedestal table bases; it gives great stability, is long-lasting and is good at resisting the wind. But pedestal bases mean you can't also have a central parasol hole.

Occasionally commercial outdoor furniture needs to be secured - the easiest solution is choosing a design that includes an opening through which a security chain can be led.

Outdoor spaces in hospitality venues have the potential to be transformed into inviting, relaxing retreats and functional areas that can cater to the needs of your guests. Of course, a large part of transforming an outdoor space into something amazing for your guests is dependent on the selection of the right commercial outdoor furniture. 

Commercial outdoor furniture encompasses a wide range of options designed for outdoor use in commercial settings. It can include everything from tables and chairs to lounge furniture and outdoor dining furniture. These items are constructed to withstand various weather conditions like wind and rain, making them ideal for outdoor spaces such as restaurant terraces, hotels, office campuses, and public parks.

Enhance the customer experience: Outdoor spaces furnished with the right contract furniture will significantly enhance the customer experience making it both beautiful and comfortable. Comfortable seating, aesthetically pleasing designs, and durable materials create an inviting atmosphere, encouraging customers to spend more time and money at your establishment.

Versatility and aesthetics: Well-chosen commercial outdoor furniture adds versatility to your space. Create separate spaces in your outdoor areas by using specific pieces of furniture to designate a use for the space. You can create different atmospheres, from a casual cafe to a sophisticated lounge area and cater to a range of customer needs and preferences. 

Employee well-being: If you’re designing an outdoor space for an office or business, you need to carefully consider how employees will use the space for breaks, lunch and other leisure times. Investing in quality outdoor furniture and carefully curating the space is essential to provide a comfortable and relaxing environment for employees which will help increase their morale and productivity, making them more efficient throughout the rest of the day.

Before making any moves to choose outdoor commercial furniture you need to evaluate your outdoor space. Measure the area to ensure that the furniture you choose fits comfortably without overcrowding. Keep in mind the movement of people in the space, especially if there will be other elements like landscaping, water features, pools, etc. It’s important to think of the purpose of the space and imagine how guests will interact with it. This will help inform you commercial outdoor furniture selections. 

Commercial outdoor furniture should be built to withstand the elements. Contract Chair Co. includes whether a piece of furniture is adequate for indoor or outdoor use, and you can filter your searches based on that. Generally speaking, you should look for materials like aluminium, iron, high-density plastic, or high-quality synthetic rattan that are weather-resistant and durable, ensuring a longer lifespan for your furniture.

As with any furniture in the hospitality space, you should choose furniture that not only looks appealing but is comfortable to use. Cushions and fabric should be of high quality and easy to clean. The aesthetic should align with your brand and the atmosphere or theme you’re creating.

With commercial outdoor furniture regular maintenance is important to ensure its longevity. Make sure you have a regular maintenance schedule in place including cleaning, covering during the off-season, and repairing any damage promptly. All furniture, even if it’s rated for outdoor use will require some sort of maintenance. Refer to the specific product you’re interested in for instructions on how to te care of it. 

Commercial outdoor furniture can be amazing, adding a sense of elegance and style to your outdoor spaces. But at the same time, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. With furniture left outdoors, there is a risk of theft or vandalism. This risk can be mitigated by putting the furniture away every evening, or by implementing security features such as CCTV or overnight security guards. Another thing to remember is that outdoor furniture will need some regular TLC to keep it looking its best. Regular cleaning and inspections are essential to prevent damage and ensure the furniture's longevity.