What are Stacking Chairs?

Whether used in churches, restaurants or convention centers, stacking chairs are a popular seating option. Stacking chairs are, simply put, chairs that can be snugly stacked on top of each other. These chairs are used in almost every large venue where ease of storage and economical seating are priorities. They come in a variety of materials and styles. Some are as simple as the molded plastic variety costing four dollars apiece and purchased at the nearest discount store. Some are made of much higher-quality plastic with metal frames, often cushioned in fabric or vinyl.

Stacking chairs are usually popular in new churches, since these communities often cannot afford the expense of wooden pews and their sanctuary may be a multi-purpose building. Cushioned chairs may also be upholstered in custom colors that match the building's interior.

Restaurants, especially those with banquet facilities, find stacking chairs to be indispensable. Facilities can be customized to accommodate as few or as many guests as necessary, and the portability of stacking chairs makes them ideal for this purpose. Special metal carts will slide between the legs of stacking chairs, allowing them to be transported in groups of six or eight. The chairs can also be stored on these carts, often in relatively small spaces, adding to their value to a restaurant owner.

Most businesses that manufacture office furniture also offer stacking chairs. They can be ordered from the brick-and-mortar store, from a catalog, or even online. They range in price from as little as US$25 each to over US$90, depending on the manufacturer and quality.

One drawback of stacking chairs is that they may not be as durable as other portable chairs, such as the metal folding variety. The more expensive chairs are usually made of better, stronger material, but an organization that furnishes with stacking chairs should be prepared to replace them more often than metal folding chairs. This being the case, an organization should determine the frequency and type of use their chairs will receive when deciding which stacking chairs will best fit their needs.

As long as groups have banquets, churches have services and families have reunions, the humble stacking chair will have a place in our culture.