Printed vs. Plain Cafe Umbrellas: Which is Best for Your Business?

Struggling to decide between printed and plain umbrellas? Not sure which option best suits your cafe or restaurant? We’re here to help. Throughout this article, we’re going to do a deep dive into the main differences between the two, as well as explore the printing process, types of market umbrellas, and more.

The Basics of Market Umbrellas

Market umbrellas are quite common. Whether you live in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide or any of the country towns across Australia, chances are you’ve seen them many times before. 

Available in either fixed or freestanding form, they are outdoor umbrellas designed to provide extra shade and protection from the elements. Unlike regular umbrellas, they are built to be much more durable and sturdy, with frames made from materials like stainless steel, aluminium, and bamboo. The base is ultimately the source of this stability. Common styles include Commercial Aluminium, Bambrella, and Telescopic umbrellas, all of which come with unique features and benefits. 

If you run a business in the hospitality or events sector, the next major decision is to decide between plain and printed market umbrellas. With this in mind, we’ve created a quick comparison between the two!

Printed Cafe Umbrellas

Printed cafe umbrellas serve the same purpose as an outdoor market umbrella, but also bring many other benefits to the table.

Branding and Customisation

First thing first, one of the standout features of printed cafe umbrellas is their ability to improve the visibility of your brand/business. Custom-printed umbrellas can incorporate everything from your cafe's logo to colours, slogans, and unique designs, making them an excellent way to generate a buzz and raise brand awareness. 

Whether you’re based on a quiet suburban strip, a busy shopping centre or a highly competitive area in the heart of the city, a well-branded umbrella allows you to draw more attention and distinguish your establishment from competitors.

At Indoor Outdoor, our team creates custom cafe umbrellas using the most sustainable printing methods available today. Once you’ve chosen an umbrella style, design, and colour, we’ll use eco-friendly Permaset inks to create a beautiful final print. These water-based inks are free from harmful chemicals and solvents, which also makes them a responsible choice for any business.

Versatility and Appeal

Printed umbrellas give you the chance to select from a wide range of customisation options. Whether you want classic matte black or bright and vibrant colours that catch the eye, the possibilities are endless. This versatility allows you to tailor your umbrellas to match your cafe’s theme and aesthetic to a tee.

Another thing to note is the advancements in the printing technology itself, where even the most unique designs are produced in a way that is more durable and weather-resistant than ever. If you partner with the right supplier and printer, your branded umbrellas will maintain their appearance and finish for many years to come.

Check out our incredible range of promotional cafe umbrellas right here online! We combine state-of-the-art technology with sustainable printing processes and custom solutions that are tailored around your needs.

Plain Cafe Umbrellas

Prefer to keep it subtle and plain? There’s nothing wrong with a standard market umbrella! Let’s explore what’s on offer with this option:

Simplicity and Elegance

A plain cafe umbrella offers a clean, minimalist look that easily complements any setting. Their understated elegance makes them a versatile choice for a wide range of decor styles, from rustic and traditional to modern and sleek. 

If your establishment already has a strong interior or exterior design, plain umbrellas can provide a neutral backdrop that adds to the overall appeal of the space, rather than competing with it.

Practicality and Maintenance

Plain umbrellas are often easier to maintain than their printed counterparts. Without intricate designs to worry about, cleaning and upkeep are straightforward. This can be particularly beneficial in high-traffic areas where umbrellas may need frequent cleaning.

Additionally, plain umbrellas tend to be more cost-effective initially. While they lack the branding potential of printed options, they can still provide excellent shade and weather protection, making them a practical choice for many businesses.

Types of Market Umbrellas

When choosing between printed and plain umbrellas, it's also important to consider the type of market umbrella that best suits your needs. Here’s a quick overview of popular options:

Commercial Aluminium Umbrellas

Known for their durability and practicality, commercial aluminium umbrellas are a staple in the hospitality industry. Their sleek, modern design and robust construction make them ideal for cafes, restaurants, and bars. Aluminium is rust-resistant and lightweight, making these umbrellas easy to set up and move.

At Indoor Outdoor, we supply both plain and printed commercial aluminium umbrellas in square, rectangular and octagonal profiles. These market umbrellas feature durable black powder coating and the highest quality components which allow for straightforward operation and many years of consistent performance.

Complete your setup with our famous Spuncrylic canopy, available with a 3-year warranty and 12 popular colour choices. We also have custom canopy options using premium 100% solution dyed acrylic.

Cantilever Umbrellas

The cantilever is a distinct style of umbrella that is characterised by a unique offset base and structure. In practical terms, this design allows you to get the shade and sun protection you need without being obstructed by the umbrella’s base. For businesses, this removes the typical obstruction of a centre pole, which allows more space for tables and seating.

The AG28 Cantilever Umbrella is a great example that’s well-suited to commercial spaces across Australia. Its signature cantilever pole arrangement allows for an uninterrupted space that you don’t receive with a conventional umbrella. These umbrellas can also tilt and rotate 360 degrees for sun protection throughout the day. 

Read our recent blog and learn all about the benefits of Cantilever umbrellas.

Telescopic Umbrellas

Telescopic umbrellas come with the added convenience of adjustable height and tilt features. This flexibility allows you to easily adapt to changing sun angles throughout the day, providing consistent shade and comfort for your patrons. Their compact design also makes them easy to store when not in use.

One of the best options on the market is the Squround” Extra-Large Telescopic Range. These impressive large telescopic umbrellas are available in 4x4m square and 5m octagonal. The canopies are locally made from premium solution dyed acrylic that comes in a large range of colours. The Squround also opens very easily with a simple crank handle that can be removed.

The Printing Process

Understanding the printing process can help you appreciate the value of custom-branded umbrellas. At Indoor Outdoor, we use the most eco-friendly Permaset inks and printing processes available. These water-based inks are free from solvents and harmful chemicals, making them a safe and sustainable choice.

Our advanced printing techniques also allow us to integrate your designs and create umbrellas that are vibrant, durable, and weather-resistant. Whether you’re looking to add simple logos or more intricate patterns, our printing process guarantees high-quality results that will enhance your brand's visibility and appeal.

Tips for Choosing the Right Option

When deciding between printed and plain umbrellas, consider the following factors:

Brand Visibility: If increasing brand awareness is a priority, printed umbrellas are an excellent choice. They serve as a mobile billboard for your cafe, attracting attention and reinforcing your brand identity.

Aesthetic Preferences: For a more subtle and versatile look, plain umbrellas offer timeless elegance that can complement any decor.

Budget: While printed umbrellas may have a higher initial cost, they offer long-term marketing benefits. Plain umbrellas, on the other hand, are generally more affordable and easier to maintain.

Durability and Maintenance: Consider the materials and construction of the umbrellas. Both printed and plain options are available in durable materials like aluminium and bamboo, ensuring they can withstand the Australian climate.

When and Where are Printed Umbrellas a Great Option?

1. High Foot Traffic Locations

Want to stand out and really attract more customers? Printed umbrellas can be a temporary or permanent advertising tool for your cafe, restaurant, bar or pub.

A printed umbrella with your cafe’s logo and vibrant colours is likely to catch the eye of passersby, drawing them in and setting your establishment apart from others. This visual impact is particularly effective during events and festivals when the streets are crowded.

2. Outdoor Events and Festivals

Outdoor events and festivals are constantly happening in all of Australia’s major cities. Whether it’s a music festival, family event, sports tournament, or a local Sunday market, these events are perfect opportunities to showcase your brand.

Setting up a pop-up stall with branded umbrellas can significantly improve your visibility. The umbrellas also shade and comfort for both attendees and staff alike, all while acting as a mobile advertisement.

3. Beachfront or Waterfront Cafes

If your cafe or restaurant is located along a beach or waterfront, such as those in St Kilda or Bondi, printed umbrellas can be a game-changer. These areas are frequented by tourists and locals alike, looking for a place to relax and enjoy the view. 

A well-placed, branded umbrella can attract beachgoers and walkers, inviting them to take a break at your cafe. The added visibility from colourful, eye-catching umbrellas helps establish a memorable presence in picturesque, high-traffic areas.

Get Brand New Umbrellas from Indoor Outdoor Imports

Both printed and plain cafe umbrellas have their own unique benefits. Printed umbrellas offer unparalleled branding opportunities and visual appeal, while plain umbrellas provide simplicity, elegance, and ease of maintenance. Ultimately, the best choice for your business depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

At Indoor Outdoor, we offer a wide range of high-quality market umbrellas, from custom-branded options to sleek, minimalist designs. With over 30 years of industry experience, we can help you find the perfect solution for your cafe or restaurant. 

Whether you’re after a plain black market umbrella or printed cafe umbrellas, you're in great hands with our experienced team.