Marquees are widely used as a practical way to add temporary or semi-permanent space across events, hospitality, education, construction and commercial settings. Modern structures are quick to install, adaptable to different environments and can be specified to perform year-round. For organisations that need additional space more than once, or over longer periods, a common question arises: is it worth buying a marquee rather than hiring one?
The answer depends on more than headline price. Usage patterns, operational demands, ongoing responsibilities and flexibility all play a part. Below, we explore the key factors that typically influence the decision, and why many organisations continue to favour hiring.
Usage patterns and long-term value
If a marquee will be used regularly or remain in place for extended periods, purchasing can initially appear cost-effective. However, ownership brings ongoing responsibilities that are easy to underestimate.
Beyond the purchase price, long-term value is affected by installation costs, servicing, storage, insurance, compliance checks and eventual replacement. Over time, these additional factors can significantly increase the total cost of ownership.
Hiring provides access to the appropriate structure when required, without committing capital upfront. For many organisations, this results in better value and greater financial predictability over several years.
Installation responsibility and site complexity
Marquee installation is a specialist operation, particularly for larger or more complex structures. It requires trained crews, appropriate lifting equipment, careful planning and a detailed understanding of ground conditions, access constraints and safety requirements.
When hiring, installation and removal are included as part of the service. This covers everything from flooring systems and access doors to heating, lighting and emergency signage — all delivered in line with current regulations.
This removes operational risk and ensures the structure performs as intended from day one.
Budgeting and cash flow
Buying a marquee represents a capital investment that sits on the balance sheet and depreciates over time. While this can suit some organisations, it also ties up funds that could otherwise support core activities.
Hiring is typically treated as an operating cost, making budgeting more straightforward and spreading expenditure across the period the space is actually needed. For organisations managing cash flow or working within fixed budgets, this approach offers greater flexibility.
Ongoing condition, safety and presentation
Marquees are exposed to weather, regular use and transportation. Even well-maintained structures experience wear over time.
Ownership means taking responsibility for cleaning, repairs, component replacement and routine safety checks. Maintaining a consistently professional appearance also requires ongoing investment.
With hired structures, maintenance and compliance sit with the supplier. Stock is inspected, cleaned and refreshed regularly, helping ensure the marquee remains safe, compliant and presentable throughout its use.
Storage, insurance and off-season considerations
When not in use, marquee components require secure, dry storage. Poles, PVC sheets, flooring and fixings occupy significant space and may also need to be declared for insurance purposes.
Hiring removes this requirement entirely. Structures are delivered when needed and removed at the end of the hire period, freeing up on-site space and eliminating storage-related concerns.
Adapting as needs evolve
Space requirements rarely remain static. Attendance numbers grow, layouts change, regulations evolve and seasonal demands shift.
Owning a marquee can limit flexibility, often requiring additional investment to expand or reconfigure a structure. Hiring allows specifications to change from one project to the next, whether that means adjusting size, layout, internal finishes or performance features, without long-term commitment.
When does buying make sense?
Purchasing a marquee may be appropriate where requirements are fixed, in-house expertise is available, and long-term storage and maintenance can be managed effectively.
For many organisations, however, hiring offers a more adaptable and lower-risk solution particularly where quality, compliance and presentation are priorities.
If you’d like to explore your options:
- For events and short-term hire, get in touch with the team
- To estimate hire costs, use our marquee cost calculator
We’re always happy to help you assess what works best for your space, timeframe and budget.
