Pool Table Construction: Hardwoods Vs Mdf
Mahogany was particularly prevalent in the pool and snooker industry up until the early 19th century. When polished it displays a deep red brown finish which darkens over time, and straight grain. While it is still regarded as one of the best choices for larger pool tables, intensive deforestation has increased the cost immensely. The same is true to a lesser extent of other hardwoods, and this has led to the introduction of MDF as a cheaper alternative.
The introduction of MDF to the pool table industry created a wealth of cheaper, less durable models which, for the first time, made pool tables affordable to almost anybody. The main reason for the introduction of cheaper, smaller pool tables was for the domestic consumer market. These tables are not hand crafted/finished as their predecessors were, but machine made.
The main benefit of the wider availability of pool tables, which had once been the privilege of the very wealthy, was that the game of pool was brought to a much wider audience. Whereas before you had to join a club, or be old enough to go to a pub to play, people could now enjoy the game in their own home.
The major disadvantages of using a cheaper, manmade composite like MDF are that it is not as durable as a natural hardwood, and must more susceptible to variations in humidity and temperature. In order to maintain the appearance of a ‘real’ pool table, these MDF bed tables are usually finished with a wood effect veneer (typically of mahogany, rosewood or oak) and domestic quality cloth/rubber.
Coin Operated Pool Tables – a Good Earner?
One thing that plays on the minds of pub and bar owners the world over is how to keep customers in.
Drinks offers have always been a popular choice, but with an increasing awareness of the dangers of drinking irresponsibly, and the legal responsibility of proprietors to ensure this does not happen, other options will undoubtedly become more popular.
One classic way to add revenue to a pub, club or bar is having coin operated pool tables. These pool tables can either be bought outright, or leased from a manufacturer. There are two main types of coin mechanism, traditional ‘mechanical’ mechs and electronic mechs. Both can be set to whatever price the owner sees fit, and accept most denominations of UK currency.
In some bars and clubs, free play tables are installed, and are ‘rented’ by the hour to patrons. This business model is used in actual pool and snooker clubs, however most pool/snooker clubs require you to become a member. The lack of mandatory membership can make a bar running this model more lucrative than the traditional pool club. Both however are guaranteed to add an extra revenue stream to your pub, bar or club and should you purchase the pool tables, you will likely see a return on your investment within 12-18 months at the most. An example of a successful UK bar chain to run this model is The Elbow Room, an American style pool bar which have SAM Billiards pool tables for rental by the hour.
The added bonus of having pool tables in your establishment is that you have to option to begin or join a pool league. This means you will host games, and send your team out to other pubs/bars. This raises the profile of your business, and also brings in more customers if your team performs well in the league. Your players may also play in national competitions, which could open up sponsorship opportunities as well.
The only additional cost you may incur is the maintenance of your pool tables. As long as you cover them when not in use, and make sure no one sits on them, rests drinks on them etc they will last a long time. One piece club cues, chalk and other accessories can be bought in bulk at a discount, and most manufacturers have cheaper versions specifically for commercial environments where they may get damaged/broken.
If you are leasing your tables you can usually arrange a maintenance contract with the supplier to repair any table damage, and change the cloth where required. Should you have purchased your tables, it is worth trying to find a local fitter who you may be able to set up a contract with. This will ensure that your pool tables are kept in the best condition, and your customers see the benefit.
Maintaining your tables is important; a shoddy pool table is no fun to play on, and will not make you any money. Well cared for tables however, will get your business recommended to other pool players, and casual fans alike.
So from the basic premise of adding a pool table to your bar or club, you can see a wealth of opportunities to bring in new customers and keep them in. You can always trial the idea with one or two to start with, and if you have the room buy in more pool tables at a later date. So go give it a go – you don’t know what you’re missing out on!
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