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Opening up a restaurant business requires large capital. Kitchen equipment is not the only thing that should be considered when investing. Everything from renovating the establishment, purchasing commercial restaurant furniture that will match the restaurant’s theme and many more items will require money. Restaurant owners who are operating on a tight budget look for ways to stretch their limited budget. One of the ways to save money is by acquiring used furniture and making some changes to make it look brand new.
Buying used versus new furniture
Used furniture is definitely cheaper than brand new, and this is the reason why a lot of restaurateurs opt for this route. But is it really advisable to buy used furniture instead of investing in new? Both have their own pros and cons that must be weighed carefully to avoid regrets in the end. There are several things that must be taken into account before deciding whether used furniture will give your business the best returns.
- Physical condition. The physical state of the furniture should always be flawless, or almost. Meticulous inspection is required if you want to get the best looking and most functional used furniture. If there is obvious damage that may seem impossible to fix, then on to the next. Don’t settle for second best just because it is a lot cheaper than new options.
- Price. Since used furniture has depreciated in value, so should its selling price. If the price is almost the same as for new furniture, then opt for the new. The main reason for choosing used furniture is to be able to save money. You should also be able to negotiate the price to the range that you are willing to pay.
- Giveaways. Mot sellers of used restaurant furniture entice customers into buying their stuff by giving out freebies, like a free mantelpiece for several chairs, etc. You can take advantage of these freebies and incorporate them into your restaurant’s theme.
A sound investment
New furniture may be costlier, but in general itis a better investment because you are guaranteed that it has never been used, and there is no wear and tear yet. It will last longer than used items, which may mean that even if you pay a higher price for acquiring it in the beginning, you will get more out of it in the long run. Used furniture may cost you more with repairs, maintenance and such. New furniture is covered by warranty, and any repairs within the warranty period will cost you nothing. Used furniture, on the other hand, is no longer covered by any warranty, and you have to shell out for repairs and maintenance.
The welfare of your patrons must be first on your list when deliberating whether to buy used or new furniture. After all, they will be the ones who will bring in profits for your restaurant. If you give them less than stellar treatment, they will not come back.