Pros & cons of different types of folding tables
Folding tables are available in many different styles and types. Here are some of the pros & cons of different types of folding tables.
Steel framed folding tables might seem like the best option when you have a high turnover of events but if you have to pack away tables to store them after use, they’ll need to be lifted by your catering staff. A light weight but still hard-wearing aluminium framed folding table might work to your advantage.
The Alu-Lite folding table can be carried by one person, rather than two which saves on the number of staff members you need to set event rooms up. A lighter weight table also prevents lifting and carrying injuries. Aluminium folding tables are robust and can stand a busy service. We have Alu-Lite tables that are still in service for decades after they were initially purchased in high turnover event venues.
Another advantage to aluminium frames is that this material is rust resistant and is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Aluminium can be recycled, and eco-friendly materials are becoming an important choice for facilities managers. Event organisers may be specifically looking for an event venue that has ECG policies in place to measure and reduce their carbon footprint.
If you need to move a number of tables long distances across a ballroom or conference centre, or between function rooms along corridors, you’ll need a table trolley. Collapsible tables can be lifted onto the table trolley and moved around the room. Each table can then be unpacked close to the site of the event or the position of the table. Working from the far end of a large room, like a ballroom, means that the last tables are unpacked off the table trolley when close to the door for a convenient exit.
Aesthetics play a part in choosing the right tables. Many venues now choose to serve on linen-less tables with simple placemats or a tablecloth that only cover part of the table. In these cases, the look of the table is important to maintaining a five star feel. Quality wood and laminate finishes provide a more upmarket feel in comparison to plastic folding tables.
A good quality folding table will also have secure table legs and locking mechanisms. These will ensure that the table is not wobbly during service. Unstable tables can cause a plethora of problems like spillages, which then have to be cleaned up. Securing table legs will protect your property and your guests.
Contract catering companies can use folding tables for their buffet service or as dining and banquet tables. Folding tables can be easily packed into vans at the end of the event, making them ideal for temporary venues. Tables that are moved frequently for temporary events need to be heavy duty and deal with a lot of handling.
Tables can be placed end-to-end to form a long buffet table with lots of surface area so that guests can line up and help themselves to food and drink or various courses from a buffet. Laminate table tops provide a hygienic and easy to keep clean table surface that is attractive to look at when it is on display.
One more advantage to foldable tables is that they save space where storage rooms are compact. This is often the case at event venues where decorations for different types of events, like weddings, celebrations, parties, and funeral gatherings has to be stored alongside tables and chairs until appropriate. Stacking chairs, which can be stacked up to ten chairs high, save on space too.
Forbes Group has been supplying folding tables to hospitality and leisure venues for over forty years. If you need advice, our team has a wealth of experience and will be able to advise you on the right table for your requirements.