Summer patio season creates a major opportunity for restaurants, hotels, golf clubs, and hospitality operators. Guests want fresh air, comfortable spaces, and memorable dining experiences. For operators, patios can increase seating capacity, drive sales, and improve customer service.

However, successful patios need more than extra tables and chairs. They require planning, smart investments, and operational support. A strong patio design can improve guest satisfaction while helping operators control costs.

Many businesses use a GPO like Entegra, buying group, or savings program to reduce expenses and strengthen purchasing decisions. These programs can help support everything from furniture and equipment to food and beverage needs.

Here are 10 patio essentials every operator should consider this summer.

1. Comfortable Patio Furniture

Guests notice seating right away. Uncomfortable chairs or damaged furniture can create a poor first impression.

Choose furniture that is:

• Durable
• Easy to clean
• Weather resistant
• Comfortable for long visits

Flexible seating also helps accommodate different party sizes.

Many operators use a GPO or buying group to access furniture suppliers and outdoor supplies. Cost savings can make large purchases easier to manage.

2. Shade Solutions

Patios need protection from summer heat. Umbrellas, pergolas, and covered seating areas help guests stay comfortable.

Shade can also:

• Protect staff from heat
• Improve customer service
• Prevent furniture damage
• Keep food and beverages at the right temperature

Comfortable guests often stay longer and spend more.

3. A Seasonal Food & Beverage Program

Summer is a great time to refresh your food & beverage program. Guests often look for lighter meals and seasonal options.

Popular menu additions include:

• Fresh salads
• Grilled items
• Shareable appetizers
• Seasonal desserts
• Frozen beverages
• Specialty mocktails

Seasonal menus create excitement and encourage repeat visits.

Working with a GPO like Entegra can also help operators manage food costs and improve purchasing efficiency.

4. Outdoor Lighting

Lighting helps create a welcoming patio atmosphere.

Popular options include:

• String lights
• Lanterns
• LED table lighting
• Decorative fixtures

Good lighting can improve guest experience and support evening service.

Guests also enjoy sharing photos online, making visual appeal more important than ever.

5. Patio Heaters

Summer evenings can become cool, especially in Canada.

Outdoor heaters help operators:

• Extend patio season
• Increase seating availability
• Improve guest comfort
• Reduce lost revenue

Extending patio use by even a few weeks can deliver meaningful returns.

Some operators also use energy savings strategies by selecting efficient heating equipment and monitoring usage.

6. Service Technology

Technology can improve speed and reduce stress for employees.

Helpful tools include:

• Handheld ordering systems
• Mobile payment devices
• Digital menus
• Kitchen communication tools

Faster service improves customer service and reduces wait times.

Technology also helps staff spend more time with guests and less time managing paperwork.

7. Entertainment Options

Guests often want more than a meal. Entertainment can create energy and encourage longer visits.

Ideas include:

• Live music
• Trivia nights
• Outdoor sporting events
• Seasonal activities

Small additions can create memorable experiences and increase food and beverage sales.

8. Outdoor Beverage Stations

Patios often generate strong beverage sales. Fast service matters during busy periods.

Dedicated beverage stations can help:

• Speed up service
• Improve workflow
• Reduce wait times
• Increase revenue

Strong beverage operations support a profitable food & beverage program.

A buying group can also help operators find savings on glassware, equipment, and beverage supplies.

9. Food Safety Practices

Outdoor dining introduces unique challenges. Heat and weather can affect ingredients and service.

Food safety should remain a top priority during patio season.

Operators should focus on:

• Proper food temperatures
• Clean service stations
• Staff training
• Safe food storage
• Handwashing procedures

Strong food safety practices protect guests and strengthen operations.

10. Flexible Weather Planning

Weather changes quickly. Rain, wind, and heat can impact service.

Prepare for changing conditions with:

• Flexible seating layouts
• Quick storage solutions
• Weather-resistant materials
• Backup service plans

Preparation helps reduce disruption and supports smoother operations.

How a GPO Supports Patio Success

Patio season increases demand across operations. Costs for food, labor, equipment, and supplies can rise quickly.

A GPO, savings program, or buying group can help operators improve purchasing strategies and manage expenses.

Benefits often include:

• Better supplier pricing
• Access to industry programs
• Improved purchasing support
• Equipment savings
• Energy savings opportunities
• Operational guidance

Procurement support can help businesses build stronger and more efficient operations.

Read our Procurement Playbook to see where you can start saving.

Final Thoughts

A successful patio creates value for guests and operators. Comfortable spaces, quality service, strong food safety practices, and an effective food & beverage program all contribute to better results.

The right investments can improve customer service, increase revenue, and create memorable experiences.