For UK businesses with outdoor spaces — from bustling pubs and boutique hotels to scenic holiday lets and stylish restaurants — investing in high-quality contract garden furniture is more than a visual upgrade.
It’s a strategic decision that directly impacts customer experience, operational efficiency, and long-term profitability.
Given the UK’s unpredictable weather, outdoor furniture must not only look good but also endure everything from torrential rain to intense summer heat, all while retaining its structure and appeal.
At Lazy Susan, our timeless, maintenance-free cast aluminium garden furniture is a popular choice for venues across the UK, including country pubs, wedding venues, golf clubs, hotels, and holiday rentals.
In this guide, the Lazy Magazine team will walk you through the key considerations for buying trade garden furniture, why material matters more than ever, and what makes certain suppliers — and cast aluminium in particular — stand out from the rest.
UK Weather & Outdoor Furniture: Why Material Choice Is Critical
Our famously erratic climate can deliver four seasons in a single day, making resilience a top priority when choosing furniture for commercial outdoor use.
Let’s take a closer look at how the most common materials perform in UK conditions:
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Synthetic Rattan
Aesthetic and popular, but the quality varies. Prolonged UV exposure can lead to fading and brittleness. Natural rattan, while beautiful, is best avoided for outdoor use unless fully sheltered. -
Hardwood
Offers a premium, traditional look but demands regular upkeep — think sanding, oiling, and sealing — to avoid rot and warping. Suitable for those prepared to invest time in maintenance. -
Steel
Strong but prone to rust without vigilant upkeep. Protective coatings or paints are essential. Stainless steel is more resilient but comes at a higher price and can be very heavy. -
Plastic
Lightweight and affordable, but typically lacks the durability, aesthetic, and stability needed in high-traffic settings.
Why Cast Aluminium Stands Out for Trade Customers
When it comes to performance, aesthetics, and minimal upkeep, cast aluminium is a leading choice for commercial garden furniture in the UK:
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Rust Resistant
Aluminium naturally resists rust by forming a protective oxide layer. Unlike steel or iron, it won’t degrade in damp conditions — making it ideal for year-round use. -
Weather Resistant
Cast aluminium won’t swell, splinter, or crack due to temperature swings. It can handle heavy rain, frost, and strong sunshine without losing its integrity. -
Lightweight & Sturdy
It strikes the perfect balance: light enough for easy rearrangement, yet heavy enough to remain stable in windy conditions — perfect for exposed beer gardens and coastal properties. -
Low Maintenance
Forget sanding, staining, or repainting. A quick wipe-down with soapy water is usually all that’s required, saving your team valuable time and effort. -
Elegant Design
Cast aluminium can be moulded into intricate, timeless designs, suiting both classic and contemporary aesthetics. Powder coating adds another layer of protection and offers a variety of colour choices.
Lazy Susan: A Trusted Trade Supplier in the UK Garden Furniture Industry
At Lazy Susan, we specialise in cast aluminium garden furniture tailored for both residential and commercial use. Trusted by over 500 businesses across the UK, our furniture combines form and function to elevate any outdoor space.
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Designed for Durability
Our pieces are built to be left outdoors all year long, featuring a tough, powder-coated finish that resists rust, fading, and wear — whatever the weather. -
Perfect for Commercial Use
Robust enough for busy pub gardens and high-turnover holiday rentals. Spill-resistant and easy to clean. Comfortable and stylish seating for guests, whether dining al fresco or relaxing post-round at the golf club. -
Long-Term Value for Money
While the initial investment may be slightly higher than some alternatives, the reduced maintenance, extended lifespan, and consistent performance offer significant cost savings over time. -
Classic, Versatile Styling
Available in finishes like Antique Bronze, Slate Grey, and White, our collections are designed to seamlessly blend with a variety of outdoor aesthetics, from modern terraces to period properties.
Where to Find Lazy Susan Furniture in the Wild
From rustic farm shops to elegant hotels, Lazy Susan furniture can be found enhancing venues across the country:
1. Restaurants & Pubs
Discover stunning setups in some of the UK's most-loved dining spots.
2. Hotels
Browse charming hotels and B&Bs featuring our low-maintenance outdoor collections.
3. Farm Shops
Perfect for countryside charm — see how our pieces bring outdoor areas to life.
4. Wedding & Events Venues
From orangeries to barns, our furniture helps create unforgettable spaces.
5. Sports Clubs
Comfortable and practical furniture that holds up season after season.
6. Holiday Rentals
From forest hideaways to coastal retreats, enjoy outdoor luxury with minimal upkeep.
Lazy Susan's Top Tips for Buying Trade Furniture for Outdoor Use
When sourcing wholesale or trade outdoor furniture in the UK, keep these expert tips in mind:
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Assess Your Space & Needs
Measure your outdoor area and plan ample seating layouts. Consider how frequently the space is used and how flexible it needs to be. -
Think Durability First
Prioritise durable materials suited for year-round use. Cast aluminium offers the best mix of longevity and low maintenance. -
Research Your Supplier
Look for reviews from other commercial clients. Ask about product warranties, customer support, and after-sales service. -
Clarify Lead Times
For seasonal venues, timely delivery is crucial. Ask about bulk discounts and delivery scheduling. -
Request Samples
For large orders, seeing and feeling the product in person helps ensure quality and fit. -
Understand Maintenance Costs
Opt for materials and finishes that reduce cleaning and maintenance time. -
Budget with Long-Term ROI in Mind
Avoid being lured by low upfront costs. Cheaper furniture often needs replacing sooner, costing more in the long run.
Our Final Thoughts: Invest Wisely in Your Outdoor Space
Choosing the right trade garden furniture isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s a strategic decision that impacts the longevity, functionality, and overall appeal of your outdoor space. For UK businesses, where weather conditions can be unpredictable and demanding, selecting the right materials and working with a trusted supplier are crucial steps in ensuring long-term value.
Cast aluminium has emerged as a top choice for residential outdoor living and commercial outdoor furniture due to its exceptional durability, rust resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements. Its lightweight yet sturdy nature, combined with timeless, elegant design, makes it particularly well-suited to the needs of hospitality venues, commercial patios, and landscaped spaces throughout the UK.
At Lazy Susan, we understand the importance of combining style with substance. That’s why we’re committed to supplying high-quality cast aluminium garden furniture that not only enhances the visual appeal of your space but also supports your business goals. With our timeless range, reliable service and trade-focused solutions, we help businesses across the UK create inviting, functional, and profitable outdoor environments that your customers will love.
Get Up to 30% Off Your Trade Order
Interested in upgrading your outdoor space with stylish, maintenance-free contract patio furniture? Register as a trade customer today and enjoy exclusive discounts of up to 30%.
📞 Call us on 01243 71 71 97 or register your details, and a member of our Trade team will be in touch.
