August 16
Pros
Less Expensive
Plastic is usually so much less expensive than wood, metal, or Formica furniture. You will be able to purchase what you need with money left over for replacement seating and tables. Replacement is not a huge issue when it is necessary as the costs are lower than other types of furniture. If you wish to change styles, that can be done quickly and easily.
A good quality table may also not require linen cloths as many other types of tables do. The tabletop is attractive enough to add placemats or nothing but a centerpiece and place settings. This would be further savings for your venue.
Easy to Clean
Plastic is notoriously simple to maintain and keep clean. Usually, all it requires is a simple wipe-down with an effective cleaner. Crayon marks, food stains, crumbs, and dirt are easily wiped away. If your furniture is used outdoors, bird droppings, mud, soot, and falling debris are easily wiped off.
Lightweight
Many restaurants have to constantly move tables around to accommodate larger groups and then move them right back after they have left. Having lightweight tables and chairs is clearly a plus in these situations. The transition is quick and easy with little or no physical strain, and guests do not have to wait long for plus-size tables for large groups.
Modern Appeal
Plastic furniture can come in traditional designs and styles, but they are clearly more appealing in modern form. The styles usually have straight lines and are in solid colors which will match just about anything.
Variety of Styles and Colors Available
One of the biggest advantages of plastic is the variety that is available. It used to be that you could buy white plastic furniture and that was just about it. Now you can designate the colors you wish to use. You can choose from pastels or go with bright tones. Black and white can be particularly stunning. An eclectic look can be derived when you use varied colors and tones mixed in with antique or wooden pieces.
Weatherproof
If you have indoor-outdoor areas in your venue, plastic furniture can be a real lifesaver. You can place it both inside or outside without fear of damage or water issues. If it is used outside, it can be easily hosed down when not in use. The many bright colors that plastic furniture is available in make it particularly appealing for patios and other outside spaces.
Cons
Uninviting
Plastic has many pluses but, in certain situations, can be a rather cold and austere alternative to seating and dining. It often lacks the warmth and appeal of other materials such as wood or wrought iron.
Difficult to Repair
Once a plastic table or chair breaks, it can be virtually impossible to repair. The best thing to do is to replace it with a new piece which can be inconvenient, timely, and sometimes pricey. If several pieces are broken or damaged, you may lack the number of seats you need for your dining areas.
Uncomfortable
Plastic, if not molded to your body, can be hard and very uncomfortable. Cushions will not always be an option, and the hard surfaces may be unappealing to diners who have to sit for long periods of time. The seating can also become quite cold under certain circumstances.
Image Issues
The use of plastic furniture can often be seen as a "cheap" alternative. A restaurant that utilizes plastic furniture in both indoor and outdoor areas may be perceived as less desirable than those that feature wood, metal, or in their furniture choices. One exception may be an extremely modern venue that pays top dollar for unique and artful furniture pieces that match its surrounding modern decor. Even using plastic furniture for your outdoor areas and another type of furniture on the interior can give your establishment a less than stellar impact, as the transition from inside to outside may be just too abrupt for your customers.
Review all of these advantages and disadvantages before making a final decision. Plastic may be your best choice at this time but know that there are so many other options out there for future decisions. You can easily start furnishing your restaurant with plastic designs and then as budget allows, begin replacing it with sturdier and more solid pieces.
Plastic furniture can be a real plus or a very real negative when it comes to your restaurant business. It all depends on the look and feel that you wish to achieve and the type of clientele you wish to attract.
