From providing shade on sunny days to sheltering guests during unexpected rain, the right umbrella can make all the difference in creating a comfortable and protected outdoor dining experience. Use this checklist of 10 key considerations to ensure your umbrella selection meets the essential requirements for success in your food service setting.
1. Safety
Verify that the umbrella's base is heavy and stable to prevent tipping, especially in high winds or busy areas. Check that the umbrellas are securely anchored, using Grosfillex weighted bases and appropriate fastening systems. Be sure to close umbrellas during windy conditions. Consider tables and table bases that accommodate and integrate the umbrella structure into their design for added stability and space efficiency. Choose umbrella formats that avoid the use of sharp edges and points to help avoid risk to guests or staff. Ensure that the umbrella meets local safety standards, including fire-resistant fabric if required.
2. Maintenance
Regularly clean the umbrellas, including the fabric and frames, to prevent mold, mildew, or dirt accumulation. Choose fabrics that are easy to wipe clean and resistant to staining from food or beverages. Ensure the base and support structure of the umbrella are clean and free from dust, rust, or grease. Look for removable umbrella covers that are easily cleaned to maintain sanitation. Be sure to move your umbrellas indoors during inclement weather or over the winter months for colder climates.
3. Composition
Select high-quality materials for both the umbrella fabric and frame to withstand weather elements like rain, sun, and wind. Use fade-resistant fabrics that will maintain their appearance even with prolonged exposure to sunlight. Ensure the frame and base materials are rust-resistant (e.g. commercial grade resin, aluminum, treated wood and brass metal hardware) to prevent degradation over time.
4. Aesthetics
Choose umbrellas that align with your restaurant’s theme, decor, and color scheme to enhance the overall ambiance. Consider branding options, such as custom logo printing on the umbrella canopy, to increase brand visibility, and select umbrella shape and color that pair well with your design to complement the atmosphere whether casual or upscale, traditional or modern.
5. Functionality
Ensure the umbrella can be easily opened, closed, and adjusted by staff for efficient use. Opt for umbrellas with adjustable positioning or tilt function to provide better shade positioning throughout the day. Umbrellas with automatic opening mechanisms make ease of use simpler but may require additional maintenance with frequent use. Alternatively, seek out manually activated systems like a hooked pin feature that allows for easy pulley cord tie-up which will also withstand continual use. Ensure umbrellas are lightweight enough for staff to move them, but heavy enough to remain stable.
6. Weather Resistance
Choose weather-resistant materials that can endure different climates, such as UV-protective fabric for sun exposure. Ensure the umbrellas can withstand light winds by using wind-resistant designs or features like vented canopies. Opt for water-resistant fabric that will dry quickly after rain, preventing the spread of moisture to customers.
7. Space Efficiency
Assess the available outdoor space to confirm that the umbrella size is appropriate for the seating arrangement - without overcrowding or overwhelming the décor. Use umbrellas that are easy to fold and store when not in use to optimize space during off-peak seasons, overnight and in bad weather. Also consider modular or adjustable umbrella sizes according to table size, number of seats and configuration to accommodate different customer needs.
8. Repair
Set up a regular inspection schedule for all umbrellas to check for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying fabric or rusted components. Look for a company that offers a generous warranty and customer service support. Have a system for quickly repairing or replacing damaged umbrellas to minimize service disruption and, consider keeping spare parts on hand for umbrella components such as ribs, or frames.
9. Lifecycle
Consider options for disposing of or recycling old umbrellas to minimize environmental waste. If possible, choose umbrellas that have minimal impact on the environment in terms of production and disposal.
10. Customer Experience
Ensure that umbrellas provide adequate shade or coverage for guests, creating a comfortable dining experience. Confirm that umbrellas do not obstruct the view or create a safety hazard for guests, such as blocking exits or walking paths, and provide umbrellas for both sunny and rainy weather to increase customer satisfaction and extend the dining season outdoors. See our blog, Finding Comfort with Outdoor Umbrellas and Accessories, to optimize customer experience.
Grosfillex Shade
The Grosfillex collection of umbrellas, umbrella bases, and umbrella poles are crafted with high-quality materials to keep patrons cool and comfortable. Shield your guests from the sun while adding a pop of color to your foodservice spaces. Built to last with weather-resistant materials, Grosfillex umbrellas ensure lasting comfort and style for years to come. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can ensure that the umbrellas in your food service setting are functional, safe, and aligned with your brand while enhancing the customer experience.
