6 things to consider when choosing a playground supplier

Playgrounds are a considerable business investment, which makes choosing a supplier an important decision. While cost is a major deciding factor, it’s not merely a matter of selecting the lowest cost option. As the old adage goes, you get what you pay for. So what other factors should you base your decision on? From stringent safety standards to reliable manufacturing, here are the six key things to consider when choosing a playground supplier.

1. Strict safety standards

First and foremost, you need to choose a supplier that can ensure your playground will be safe, high quality and low maintenance. As with most things, cheap playgrounds often end up costing more in the long run.

It’s crucial your equipment meets or exceeds Australian safety standards. And whether it’s including ample supervision windows in the design or conducting compliance inspections, you want a supplier who can proactively anticipate and manage risks so you don’t have to. Check they use specialist installers who are fully certified to ensure your playground is compliant.

2. Smart design

As for the playground design itself, there are endless things to consider – too many to list! But the best way to maximise space is to install a playground that’s custom-designed to suit the space you have available. In many venues, this includes building playgrounds up to maximise height and floor space.

3. Premium materials

Playgrounds are a big investment, so you want to ensure you’re getting value for years to come. For this reason, we rarely recommend soft play structures for pubs and clubs – even if it’s indoor. Choose durable materials that are easy to clean. And make sure you go with a commercial playground supplier. Equipment designed for residential use rarely stands the test of time in venues with high foot traffic.

4. Reliable manufacturing and repairs

If you want to avoid delays or need your project to run on schedule, be sure to choose a large supplier with a reliable supply chain. Well-established playground suppliers have the capability to manufacture and install at speed, causing minimal disruption to your business.
Importantly, local suppliers are best for spare parts and maintenance. There’s nothing parents hate more than a ‘playground closed’ sign, so you want to avoid waiting on overseas manufacturers to ship new parts. If you get a premium playground, repairs will be a rarity. However, if there is wear and tear, you want a local supplier who can offer fast, reliable maintenance services. It goes without saying that this also reduces shipping miles and environmental costs.

5. Play for all ages

Choose a supplier that can design a custom playground that entertains children of all ages. It’s best to include a range of toddler play panels and activities that intentionally sit at ground level and allow them to push, pull, spin and touch. So while older siblings are climbing and sliding up high, younger children are safely entertained at floor level.

6. Industry expertise

Last but not least, consider what credentials and projects the supplier has in your specific industry. Playground design is a very specific skill, and equipment that works well in a school or a park isn’t necessarily well suited to a pub or club. Critically, residential backyard playgrounds shouldn’t be placed in commercial venues. Do your research and choose a supplier who specialises in your industry and has previous projects and testimonials to back that up.

RhinoPlay specialises in designing, installing and maintaining high-quality play equipment for pubs, clubs and quick service restaurants. With more than two decades’ experience, we know exactly what you need to attract more families and make fast profits.

Contact RhinoPlay today to arrange a free design consultation and quote.