Winter is around the corner, and for businesses with an outdoor space, this means preparing to ensure comfort for customers when the temperatures drop and the cold weather hits.

Did you know that 65% of customers would choose outdoor seating even when it’s cold outside? Plus, outdoor spaces are a very important source of revenue. According to Fast Casual, outdoor seating can boost your revenue by up to 30%, irrespective of the type of establishment you run.

You can still make your outdoor space a haven for customers, even if you’re in a more frigid climate than tropical. Here are five simple ways to turn your outdoor area into a winter wonderland that is just as enjoyable as it is in warmer months.  

1. Increase Your Covering with An Awning

The British weather is known for its unpredictability, so you’ll want to ensure that your customers are kept in shade when it’s super sunny. Keep customers cool and comfortable by adding a commercial awning.  

An awning is a covering that extends from the building, protecting patrons from rain and snow. Adding an awning to your premise allows you to maximise your usable floor space and helps you avoid being forced to turn customers away when indoor space is limited.  

A commercial awning is an excellent investment that provides benefits ALL YEAR ROUND. During the summer, your guest can still enjoy time outside in the comfort of the shade.  

Awnings come in many different designs, from permanent installations to retractable versions that can be retracted when not in use. Manual or electric-powered awnings are also available. 

Additionally, our awnings can be outfitted with many useful and attractive additional accessories. Take a look here.  

2. Outdoor Ambience

Improving your outside area also means improving the ambience. One way you could enhance the atmosphere of your outdoor space is to make sure your furniture and seating options are comfortable and cosy.  

It’s easy to forget about comfort when it comes to outdoor seating. Still, it’s one of the most essential features when attracting customers. When temperatures are lower than average, you may consider adding cushions and blankets to your seating options to make them more comfortable.   

Another thing you can do is consider lighting candles or investing in a fire pit. A fire pit is also a great way to keep customers warm and entertained on chilly nights and create a romantic atmosphere for when your customers want to spend time with someone special at this time of year. 

Outdoor heaters are great, but nothing says cosy like a fire. Ensure you’re following all the proper guidelines and that your customers stay safe around the fire!  

3. Add Outdoor Heating 

One of the main reasons we head indoors in the winter months is for warmth. Sitting outside in the cold is not enjoyable for anyone and can deter customers.  

Outdoor heating can make your space usable even when it’s cold outside. These options are safe, cost-effective, and highly customisable. What’s not to love?  

Outdoor heaters are relatively easy to install and allow you to provide consistently comfortable temperatures, whatever the weather! Awnings can also be installed with heaters which will help to enhance the comfort of your patio area when there’s a chill in the air.

4. Add Festive Lights 

If you want to use your outdoor space for as long as possible, making adequate lighting is an essential consideration.  

Consider using festive lights to create a positive atmosphere and extend the time of day your customers can use your outdoor space.  

Festive lighting is a great way to draw customers in and make your outdoor space more welcoming and comfortable. It also helps keep customers engaged and entertained on colder nights when they might not want to go home. 

If you don’t have the ability to add lighting to a roof or wall, consider adding portable lighting, as you can then remove these come summertime. If you do choose to install an awning, built-in LED lighting is also an option.  

5. Add Some Greenery

Finally, add some greenery to your outdoor space! It will add colour and create a festival atmosphere that customers will love. 

Adding some bushes can increase the privacy of your business whilst also influencing your customer’s mood. Additional green space may also encourage customers to walk through your door.  

Greenery can also protect your customers from the weather as it can provide side coverage. If your business is city based, this can improve the appearance of your business, as greenery may be lacking in the city environment.  

Finding The Perfect Commercial Awning for Your Business 

Don’t let this weather stop you from enjoying an outdoor space; embrace it! You want your customers to enjoy your outdoor space as much as possible throughout the year, which an awning enables you to do. 

You can keep your customers safe from the elements, extend your outdoor season, or relax in comfort.  

Our team of expert fitters can help transform your outdoor area with premium quality bespoke commercial awnings. Choose from a wide range of cover styles and colours made from the finest, most durable materials. Our awnings come with manual or electric operation systems to suit all budgets.