Upholstered chairs in the catering industry – more than just seating

Upholstered chairs have long since established themselves as a staple in the catering industry. Their soft upholstery and attractive design play a key role in creating a restaurant’s atmosphere. But why are they so popular in this sector in particular? And how do they compare to conventional chairs from a furniture shop?

Why use upholstered chairs in restaurants?

• Comfort: Arguably the most important reason for using upholstered chairs is the increased comfort they offer. Guests clearly feel more at ease on softly upholstered chairs and tend to stay seated for longer.
• Atmosphere: Upholstered chairs create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. They convey a sense of luxury and quality, which has a positive effect on the overall ambience of a restaurant.
• Variety: Upholstered chairs are available in countless designs, colours and materials. This means they can be perfectly tailored to a restaurant’s individual style.
• Acoustics: Upholstered chairs help to improve room acoustics by absorbing sound. This results in a more pleasant background noise level and allows for relaxed conversations.

The difference compared to chairs from a furniture shop

Upholstered chairs for the hospitality industry differ from those found in furniture shops in several key ways:

• Durability: Catering chairs must withstand heavy use and are therefore often made from particularly robust materials.
• Ease of care: The covers on catering chairs are usually removable and easy to clean.
• Functionality: Many catering chairs have additional features such as stackability or the option to attach them to tables.

Higher turnover through comfort

Studies have shown that greater seating comfort leads to guests staying longer and spending more per person. Guests who feel comfortable are more likely to spend more money and return more often.

Why is this the case?

• Relaxation: Comfortable seating encourages relaxation and invites guests to linger.
• Positive associations: Guests often associate comfortable chairs with a pleasant experience and good service.
• Social interaction: Comfortable seating encourages social interaction and contributes to a positive atmosphere.

Conclusion

Upholstered chairs are a worthwhile investment in the hospitality industry. They enhance guest comfort, improve the atmosphere and can even lead to higher turnover. By choosing the right upholstered chairs, restaurateurs can create a distinctive ambience and build long-term loyalty amongst their guests.

Additional aspects you might wish to consider:

• Value for money: There are upholstered chairs to suit every budget. It is important to find good value for money.
• Design: The design of the upholstered chairs should complement the overall look and feel of the restaurant.