Tuesday, September 1, 2009

How to Minimize Furniture Costs

Sticking to a budget is crucial to the success of any start up or existing business. In the restaurant business, keeping track of expenses is imperative to a smoothly running establishment. Obviously, you want your business to run smoothly without any financial stresses. Unfortunately, very few of us can ever be completely free of financial obligations so here are a few tips to minimize the costs you incur when purchasing restaurant furniture.

1) Look at different finish options. A wood seat may be more economical than an upholstered seat because it takes less labor to manufacture. If you are set on having cushioned seats, look at different fabric and vinyl options. Different grades of material have different prices. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons before choosing the cheapest material, however, as you may be forced to replace your furniture more frequently if you are too cheap.

2) Ask the supplier about clearance furniture. Often items are discontinued by a manufacturer and the stock on hand needs to be sold quickly. One thing to keep in mind when buying discontinued furniture is that when it is time to replace it, you are not likely to find the exact same chair. Again, weigh the pros and cons.

3) Buy in bulk. Sometimes suppliers will cut a deal if you buy a certain quantity. Try to furnish your entire restaurant at once, and not replace furniture on a rotating schedule. Also, if you have outdoor dining, purchase your patio furniture at the same time you purchase your dining room furniture. The larger your order, the less you spend per piece on shipping and freight charges as well.

To find quality furniture at low prices, visit Hazelwoods.

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