With the arrival of summer, terraces, outdoor dining areas, beach clubs and open-air venues once again take centre stage in the food service industry. Creating an inviting yet functional table setting means carefully choosing materials, colours, lighting and finishing touches, while never losing sight of the practical demands of service.
We discussed these topics with **Giancarlo Minagro**, owner of **Party City**, a company founded in 2006 in the party supplies sector that has since expanded into the Ho.Re.Ca. market, with a range of approximately 10,000 products. From disposable tableware to porcelain, glassware, catering equipment and service accessories, the company will be exhibiting at RHS 2027 for the first time.
**Party City started out in the party supplies sector and has gradually expanded its offering to the Ho.Re.Ca. market. How has the company evolved?**
“Party City was founded in 2006 as a company specialising in party supplies. In recent years, we have expanded our range to include everything related to the Ho.Re.Ca. sector, reaching a portfolio of approximately 10,000 products. Today, we offer disposable tableware, porcelain, ceramics, glassware, drinking glasses, equipment and accessories, with solutions designed to meet the different needs of restaurants, hotels, beach clubs and event venues.”
**Summer brings outdoor dining back into the spotlight. Where should businesses start when creating a table setting that is attractive, functional and consistent with their venue’s identity?**
“The choice should always start with the setting and the venue’s identity. Beachfront businesses, for example, often tend to choose colours such as light blue and navy, which reflect the surrounding environment. Other venues prefer more neutral and versatile shades that can be used throughout the year.
The important thing is to create consistency between the table setting, the venue’s style and the experience you want to offer, without overlooking the practical aspects of service.”
**How should businesses choose the most suitable materials for plates, glasses and cutlery?**
“It depends on the type of business. At beach clubs, for example, we recommend avoiding glass and porcelain in areas where breakage could pose a safety risk, and opting instead for practical disposable alternatives that are also carefully designed from an aesthetic point of view.
Today, there are plenty of options that make it possible to combine safety, functionality and presentation.”
**How important are lighting and small details in creating the right atmosphere?**
“They are extremely important. Even a simple table setting can be transformed through appropriate lighting and a few carefully chosen elements.
Candles are among the most popular solutions. We offer both traditional wax candles and LED alternatives. They are not merely decorative accessories, but elements that help make a space more welcoming and enhance the customer experience.”
**How much has the focus on sustainable materials grown in the Ho.Re.Ca. sector?**
“Demand for sustainable and biodegradable products has increased considerably in recent years. Among the most popular options are bamboo and moulded cellulose fibre, particularly in the disposable tableware segment.
Hospitality professionals are increasingly looking for products that combine practicality, quality and environmental awareness.”
**What trends are shaping summer table settings today?**
“Trends provide a useful point of reference, but the choice should always reflect the venue’s identity. A beachfront establishment can focus on colours and details inspired by the local surroundings, while businesses looking for solutions suitable throughout the year may prefer neutral shades.
The wide variety of products available today allows every business to develop its own distinctive and recognisable style.”
**Three tips for enhancing a summer dinner without exceeding the budget?**
“First of all, focus on lighting, because it can completely change the way a space is perceived. Candles, for example, can immediately create a warmer atmosphere.
Then choose a limited palette of colours and materials that work well together and, finally, pay attention to the details. There is no need to overcrowd the table: often, just a few well-considered choices are enough to enhance the service and improve the customer experience.”
**In 2027, Party City will take part in RHS for the first time. What does this new experience mean for your company?**
“It is an opportunity to present our range to Ho.Re.Ca. professionals, meet new businesses and showcase the growth we have achieved in recent years, which has enabled us to continually expand our offering for the restaurant and hospitality industries.”
