The hospitality industry has had to reinvent itself in recent years, with the coronavirus pandemic and changing tastes having a significant impact on both the type and levels of custom from diners. While it has undoubtedly been a challenging time for cafes, restaurants and bars, one trend that has emerged on top is outdoor dining.
The popularity of outdoor dining has grown hand in hand with the emergence of innovative outdoor dining solutions. One of these is outdoor dining pods, which you may have seen become more and more common when you are out and about. Join us as we unravel what the trend is all about and uncover whether it’s worth investing in outdoor dining pods for your garden or hospitality premises.
What Are Outdoor Dining Pods?
Outdoor dining pods, also known as igloo dining pods, are enclosed and weatherproof structures used by restaurants, cafes and bars to offer a unique outdoor seating provision. Outdoor dining pods often resemble a bubble as they are typically made of transparent material which allows diners to enjoy all the delights of an outdoor view in a non-exposed and cosy setting.
The Benefits Of Outdoor Dining Pods
Outdoor dining pods really burst onto the scene when rules were enforced on hospitality premises during periods of COVID-19 restrictions. With diners only allowed in outside spaces, many restaurants turned to this clever solution to provide comfortable but safe and socially distanced seating and adapt to challenging business conditions. However, even as lockdown measures eased, outdoor dining pods sustained their popularity due to a whole host of long-term benefits.
Provide Shelter In All Seasons
Outdoor dining pods can withstand a huge range of weather conditions including rain, wind and cold to create a comfortable experience no matter what the elements have in store. The additional shelter that these pods provide means that customers can enjoy al fresco dining in all seasons and restaurant owners can extend their outdoor seating season to overcome the hurdles of typically quieter months. This can be a huge help in winter, particularly for busy premises that have limited inside space.
Keep Premises Adaptable
Though hospitality has operated largely without restriction for a while now, periods of lockdown stressed the importance of having an adaptable business model and prioritising safety. Outdoor dining pods ensure that your premises can change quickly if needed as they can easily be moved around or reassembled should you have a sudden need for covered outdoor seating. By having this type of seating at your restaurant, you are also able to cater for diverse needs and promote social distancing if this is still a concern to possibly vulnerable patrons.
Offer A Unique Dining Experience
All restaurant owners will be well aware that the hospitality industry is highly competitive at the moment, with the cost of living crisis affecting levels of custom to potentially devastating effect. Outdoor dining pods can help your premises stand out in an otherwise competitive market as they offer a unique and intimate dining experience. The personalised ambience can appeal to both couples and families and the eye-catching appearance of an igloo dining pod creates ample creative marketing opportunities.
About The Astreea Pod
One of the most popular types of outdoor dining pods is the Astreea Pod, available online at Cost Cutters in medium, large and extra large sizes. This type of outdoor dining pod is designed and built to last making it the perfect choice for anybody looking to adapt their outdoor seating provision.
Astreea pods have an entirely weatherproof cover that merges cosy indoor comforts with the ambience of the outdoors to create a wholly unique experience for diners. Each pod is adaptable with a lighting system and heater installation options to help you create the perfect ambience.
To fully embrace the potential of your outdoor space with Astreea pods, Cost Cutters can provide a smart space planning service. Simply get in touch with our expert team to discuss our outdoor seating pod options and design your outdoor seating area today!