Tables are an industry staple

By Jeff Griffin

Tables are dependable moneymakers for general rental centers and stores specializing in parties and special events. High-quality tables are relatively inexpensive, durable and easy to store, and there is a continuing rental demand. Customers who rent tables almost always need to rent other special event items including chairs, linens, tableware and more.
Wooden-top round and rectangular tables widely used at events remain industry staples. Lightweight alumin-um and ABS - which have lightweight plastic tops that can be used without covering - tables are growing in popularity. Specialty tables also are in demand. Round knockdown tables consisting of top, column and base are available in various top diameters and assemble and disassemble quickly without tools. Card tables are rented by homeowners and institutions.
"Everyone has use for an extra table once in awhile," said Charles McCourt, president of McCourt Manufacturing, Fort Smith, Ark. "During setup, make sure table legs are locked. One advantage of ABS tables is that they weigh approximately 20 percent less than wooden tables."
One of the best features of rental tables is their longevity. They can be rented again and again with minimal upkeep. With reasonable care and maintenance, tables can remain in rental inventories for years.
"If rental stores purchase the right tables and maintain them, there will be few problems," said Ken Persson, vice president-sales and marketing for Maywood Furniture Corp., Maywood, N.J. "Usually 10 to 12 rentals pay for the purchase of a top-quality plywood banquet table."

Who rents tables?
Individuals need a few tables for family events and small parties. Businesses need tables to accommodate several hundred people for corporate banquets. Many caterers rent tables rather than buy them.
Wedding planners and special event organizers rent tables on a regular basis. Tables are rented by businesses and nonprofit organizations. Hotels and meeting facilities often need tables to supplement their inventory.
Counter personnel should be alert to the need for other items when a customer arrives to rent tables. Table coverings, skirting and chairs are the most obvious suggestions. A few questions about the event may reveal the potential for additional rentals such as other specialized furniture, tents or canopies, aisle runners, staging, dance floors, lecterns, portable bars, grills, food service equipment, dinnerware and much more. Table customers also are good prospects to buy disposable decorative and party goods.
Homeowners renting a few tables will pick up them up and return them. For large events, rental centers deliver tables and other items, set them up and pick them up afterwards.
Tables with folding legs go up and down quickly - but rough handling is hard on folding legs. Instruct delivery personnel to go slower and use only the force necessary when setting up and removing tables. Care should be taken not to damage edge moldings when loading and unloading tables and other equipment and when returning tables to your inventory.
Tables sold to the rental market are well made and extremely durable. Careful handling and maintenance ensure maximum life and the highest possible return on investment.
Tables should be cleaned and inspected for damage after each rental. Look for staples or tacks that have been placed on tops, and remove them so they won't catch and tear tablecloths on the next rental. Check and tighten leg and rail nuts and bolts and reattach edge moldings that are loose. When necessary, replace moldings. Wooden tops are finished at the factory, but in time they will need to be sanded and repainted or refinished.
"Depending on use, wooden tabletops will need to be sanded, stained, and resealed after a year or two of service," said Greg Holroyd, vice president of King Arthur, Statesville, N.C. "Urethane provides a good protective coating and inhibits moisture penetration. Rental stores should maintain the understructure and edges of tables. If legs are damaged, they can be replaced."