For most event organisers, the hire versus buy question comes down to frequency of use. Buying event furniture only makes financial sense if you use it regularly enough to justify the capital outlay, storage costs and ongoing maintenance. For one-off events or irregular bookings, hiring is almost always the more practical choice.

The cost of ownership

Even a dozen decent chairs is a real outlay. Add tables, linen and glassware and you face a significant capital commitment. Then there is storage — event furniture takes up dedicated space, and warehousing costs money. Maintenance, cleaning and replacement add up over time. The purchase price is only the start of the total cost.

Why hire makes sense for most events

Hiring gives you access to commercial-grade equipment for exactly as long as you need it. No storage, no depreciation, no capital tied up in items that might sit unused for months. You choose what you need for each event — 12 rectangular tables for a corporate lunch, lounge furniture and poseur tables for a product launch, or outdoor furniture and gazebos for a festival. The order matches the event, not what happens to be in your storeroom.

We supply Chiavari chairs, banqueting chairs, tables of every type, outdoor furniture, lounge seating and LED furniture for evening events. Every item is inspected and cleaned before delivery.

Equipment condition

When you buy, your budget sets a ceiling on quality. With hire, you access professional-grade equipment that would be expensive to purchase outright. Our linen arrives pressed; our glassware arrives polished. Every order includes a Free Minor Damage Waiver covering minor accidental damage. No security deposit is required on any order.

Catering equipment

The same logic applies to catering equipment. Ovens, fridges, warming equipment and bar kit represent significant capital. A caterer who buys their own equipment needs transport, storage and maintenance on top of the purchase price. Hiring means you order what you need for that specific event — cooking equipment, fridges and freezers, bar equipment — and we collect it after the event.

When buying can make sense

If you run events every week using the same items in the same venue, ownership may be cheaper in the long run. The break-even point depends on hire frequency, storage availability and the rate of wear on your specific items. If you are not certain, hire first. You can always buy later, once you know exactly what you need and how often you will use it.

Supplementing what you own

Hiring does not have to replace your existing stock. If you own 50 chairs but need 150 for a larger function, hire the extra 100. Many regular clients use Expo Hire to top up their inventory for peak events without committing to permanent ownership of items that will sit unused for most of the year.

Placing your order

Browse the catalogue online, select the items you need and enter your delivery date and venue postcode. We deliver across England and Wales from 11 depots and collect after your event. Live pricing and stock are on the site — no phone calls needed. Select your dates on any product page to check availability and confirm your order.