Spring is around the corner but it's not too early to plan for customers wanting to dine outdoors. As dining outdoors has become more prevalent, expanding seating outside is an easy way to help improve sales.
Over the past two years, many locations have expanded to outdoor seating because of Covid restrictions on indoor dining. As those restrictions are easing up around the country, customers are still interested in sitting outside. Whether it's a college, office building, healthcare facility, or restaurant, having outdoor seating available is a good option.
Even when the weather is a little chilly, it's possible to have comfortable outdoor seating options available. Using fire pits and patio heaters can transform your patio dining areas into useable space, even if it's cold outside. In addition, having the ability to expand your floor space opens up endless possibilities for parties, special events, and an overflow of patrons.
Patio heaters come in different sizes and can be fueled with liquid propane or connected to natural gas, allowing heaters to be placed on the patio permanently. In areas that have cool nights all year round, patio heaters will offer guests a place beneath the stars to dine.
Air screens are not a new addition to foodservice facilities and have been used on back doors, cooler, and freezer doors in facilities for years. However, using them on entrance and service doors can have more effect than keeping the flies out.
Air screens also act as a barrier to keep air conditioning or heat inside, keeping the energy being paid for where it's intended to be. When used in conjunction with patio heaters warming the air and wind blocks for patio furniture, customers can bask in the sun while there's still snow on the ground. How cool is that?
Special events often require a separate space, and a patio can be a perfect place for an anniversary, birthday party, or wedding dinner. Having furniture that can withstand the elements and maintain its color is important when looking for items for outdoor dining.
Look for furniture specifically made for outdoor use, repel mold, and have a variety of colors to coordinate with the business's decor. Purchasing the right furniture eliminates the need to continuously replace deteriorating and unattractive pieces.