Commercial Retractable Pergolas & Canopy Systems

Large retractable pergolas for commercial outdoor spaces

Turn your outside space into a dependable income stream with Samson Outdoor Living’s commercial retractable pergola and canopy systems. Samson supplies and installs large‑scale retractable roofs and pergolas from leading European manufacturers Weinor, Markilux and KE Outdoor Design, selected for demanding UK hospitality and commercial environments.

Since 2020, covered outdoor seating has shifted from “nice to have” to essential for pubs, restaurants, hotels and cafés. Samson’s retractable pergola structures create usable, weather‑managed terraces that can be opened to the sky on good days and closed at the touch of a button when the rain, wind or harsh sun arrives, typically extending outdoor use by 8–10 months of the year.

Whether you need a substantial retractable roof over a restaurant terrace, a freestanding pergola in a hotel courtyard or a robust canopy system for a busy beer garden, Samson designs and installs made‑to‑measure commercial structures that balance durability, function and appearance.

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Premium pergola brands, specified by Samson

Samson Outdoor Living works with three established European manufacturers whose systems have proven themselves on UK commercial sites.

Weinor

Weinor’s German‑engineered pergola awnings provide stable, textile roofs with projections up to around 6 metres and coupled widths approaching 14 metres, making them well suited to larger terraces. Samson commonly specifies the Pergotex and Plaza Viva ranges for commercial clients needing integrated lighting options, compatibility with heating, and reliable performance in high‑use settings such as hotel and restaurant terraces.

Markilux

Markilux systems combine clean, contemporary design with tested weather performance for commercial use. Samson’s commercial team regularly uses the Markilux Pergola Stretch and Markant ranges where venues require motorised retractable roofs that can be partnered with glass walls, vertical blinds or side infills to create architecturally tidy, large‑span outdoor rooms.

KE Outdoor Design

KE Outdoor Design provides modular Italian‑designed pergola and bioclimatic systems. Samson uses these where clients want rotating aluminium louvre roofs, retractable fabric options or complex multi‑bay layouts, including both wall‑mounted and freestanding structures for terraces, beer gardens and varied commercial outdoor spaces.

Why choose a commercial retractable pergola?

Year‑round revenue from outdoor space

A correctly specified Samson pergola turns a weather‑dependent terrace into a more predictable trading area that can often operate from early spring into late autumn and through milder winter periods. By creating bookable, sheltered covers, many venues see the investment pay back over two to three seasons through increased capacity and extended trading hours.

Effective protection from UK weather

Samson’s motorised retractable roof systems are designed to cope with typical British conditions, combining sun, rain and wind protection in one system. Options include fully waterproof PVC‑coated fabrics, high‑UV‑blocking textiles and rotating aluminium louvres that can be closed into a rain‑resistant canopy, alongside integrated guttering to handle regular UK rainfall.

Flexible use of space

With a retractable roof and optional side elements, a single area can serve multiple purposes throughout the day. Open the roof fully for open‑air dining when conditions are ideal, partially extend for late‑afternoon sun, then close and lower side screens or glass walls for evening service, private events or poor weather.

Large coverage without building work

Samson’s commercial pergola systems can span up to 6 metres in projection and around 7 metres in width per unit, with the ability to couple structures for much wider runs. Freestanding frames avoid loading existing façades, which is especially useful in beer gardens, hotel grounds or where the host building is unsuitable for fixings.

Better guest experience

Comfortable, clearly defined outdoor areas are used more, and for longer. With options for heating, lighting and wind protection, Samson‑installed retractable canopies allow guests to enjoy an outdoor atmosphere without sacrificing comfort, which supports higher dwell times and spend per head.

Visual and marketing impact

A substantial pergola or canopy can become a recognisable feature – a place you can name on your booking system and promote in your marketing. Many commercial clients use their covered terrace as a premium reservations‑only zone, a dedicated events space or a way to differentiate their venue from competitors relying on umbrellas and basic awnings.

Planning‑friendly approach

Because the roofs retract and structures are often viewed differently from permanent buildings, retractable pergolas can benefit from more favourable planning treatment in some situations. Samson’s commercial team will discuss your site’s constraints and provide drawings and technical data to support any planning application where needed.

Built for commercial use

Samson’s preferred systems use powder‑coated aluminium frames, commercial‑grade fabrics and proven motor technology designed for frequent operation. Retractable roofs and screens park away when not required, which reduces weathering and extends fabric life, and manufacturers offer warranties appropriate for commercial use.

Scalable and expandable layouts

Many Samson‑specified pergola systems are modular, so you can start with one bay and add further units later as demand grows. For larger sites, Samson can design multi‑unit layouts to cover complex terraces or create zoned outdoor areas.

Samson commercial pergola range

Classic retractable pergola systems

Samson’s classic commercial pergola options provide a cost‑effective way to gain covered seating with motorised fabric roofs and aluminium frames, while keeping installation relatively simple.

Classic systems work well for:

Medium restaurant terraces (around 30–40 covers)
Small and medium pub gardens
Café and bistro pavement or courtyard seating
Commercial projects where budget is tight but a durable system is still required

Typical characteristics:

Projections up to 6 metres
Widths up to roughly 13.9 metres when units are linked
Waterproof fabric options
Powder‑coated aluminium construction
Motorised operation supplied as standard
Wind resistance generally up to Beaufort force 5–6, depending on model and configuration

Example systems

Erhardt PM – German‑manufactured retractable canopy system offering strong value for commercial use, with motorised fabric roof and waterproof fabric choices.

Markilux Pergola Classic – Wall‑mounted, sloping‑roof design with a slim contemporary appearance and a wide choice of frame colours, suited to restaurant terraces needing clean architectural lines, with LED lighting available.

Weinor Plaza Viva – Can be configured as a flat pergola structure with curved fabric profile; support posts and side channels allow later addition of vertical blinds.

WALL MOUNTED PERGOLAS

Enhanced Commercial Retractable Pergola Systems

For venues needing higher weather performance and more complete enclosure, Samson specifies enhanced pergola systems with integrated guttering, heavier frames and extensive side options.

Enhanced systems are suited to:

Larger restaurant and hotel terraces (50+ covers)
Premium hospitality venues and rooftop bars
Exposed coastal or city locations
Spaces intended for near year‑round commercial use

Typical characteristics:

Integrated perimeter guttering systems for controlled drainage
Compatibility with glass walls, vertical blinds and louvre side infills
Higher resistance to wind and driving rain than lighter systems
Projections up to around 6 metres and widths around 7 metres, with coupling for larger spans
Options for integrated LED lighting and heating
Modular design that allows future extension

Example systems

Weinor Pergotex – A robust, wall‑mounted pergola awning with tensioned fabric roof and continuous guttering, which Samson often pairs with Weinor’s vertical shading or glass elements for full or partial side enclosure.
Markilux Pergola Stretch – A high‑end large‑area canopy using stretch‑fabric technology for a taut roof and effective water run‑off, with integrated lighting tracks, heating options and multiple infill choices, and the ability to couple units for longer runs.
Markilux Markant – A square, modular structure that can be wall‑mounted or freestanding, with track systems for glass and blinds, built‑in guttering and lighting options, often used by Samson for premium restaurant and hotel projects.

KE Outdoor Design enhanced systems – Bioclimatic and retractable pergolas with rotating louvre roofs or fabric roofs, both wall‑mounted and freestanding, which Samson configures with glass walls, ZIP screens and blinds to create complex multi‑bay layouts.

Where there is no suitable building elevation, Samson designs freestanding pergola structures that stand independently on four, six or eight posts to create covered “rooms” in open gardens, courtyards, rooftop spaces or central terraces.

Freestanding retractable pergolas are often chosen for:

Large beer gardens
Hotel courtyards, poolside areas and spa terraces
Standalone restaurant garden dining
Rooftop bars and terraces, subject to structural checks
Sites without reliable walls for fixing

Typical characteristics:

Fully self‑supporting frames
Multiple post configurations to suit size and layout
Retractable roofs with integrated guttering
Options for full side enclosure using glass, blinds or ZIP screens
Ability to join multiple structures for very large areas
Surface‑mounted or ground‑fixed foundations, as appropriate to the site

Example systems

KE Outdoor Design freestanding pergolas – Modular units from around 4×4m to 7×7m and larger when linked, with rotating louvre roofs or retractable fabrics, designed by Samson as architectural‑grade aluminium structures with comprehensive weatherproofing.

Markilux Markant freestanding – A premium freestanding canopy with motorised roof, guttering and side‑infill tracks, available in custom colours and suitable for combining multiple units across a large terrace.

Sun and UV control

For hospitality and educational settings, protecting people from intense sun is a safety and comfort issue as much as a convenience. Samson selects roof fabrics and louvre systems with high UV ratings so that diners, guests and pupils are shielded while still enjoying natural light.

Key points:

Commercial acrylic, polyester and PVC‑coated fabrics can be specified with very high UV blocking while still allowing a pleasant level of daylight.
Motorised roofs allow partial extension, so Samson can configure systems to provide targeted shade to west‑facing terraces in late afternoon, then fully extend for evening service when the sun drops.
Shaded areas beneath fabric or louvre roofs can be noticeably cooler than unshaded spaces, and can be further improved with fans or misting where appropriate.

Protecting furniture and equipment

High UV levels degrade fabrics, finishes and plastics quickly. By shading furniture and external equipment, Samson‑installed pergolas help reduce fading and premature wear. When roofs are retracted, natural rainfall can help rinse away built‑up dust and pollen from hard surfaces.

Rain protection and water management

Rain performance is critical on UK commercial sites. Samson designs each pergola installation around local conditions, roof size and realistic usage patterns.

Key points:

Waterproof fabrics or louvre roofs are available where full rain protection is needed, combined with perimeter gutter profiles that collect run‑off and direct it to posts and downpipes.
Commercial gutter sizes are selected to handle typical rainfall for the structure’s area; as with any external system, exceptional cloudbursts may briefly exceed capacity, which is factored into how Samson advises clients to operate their roofs.
Samson coordinates rainwater outlets with existing drainage, soakaways or storage where required and will provide details to help demonstrate compliance with building and drainage requirements.

Fabric roofs are tested to defined water resistance ratings; Samson’s commercial team will recommend appropriate specifications once site exposure and intended use are understood.

Wind protection and side enclosure

Wind is often what forces customers back indoors, even when temperature and rain are acceptable. Samson uses a mix of retractable and fixed elements to create comfortable, sheltered zones while keeping flexibility.

Options include:

Vertical cassette blinds – Motorised blind systems with side guidance that can be deployed on one or more elevations; available in clear PVC for visibility or solid/mesh fabrics for privacy and branding.
Glass sliding walls and doors – Framed or frameless glass panels that slide open in good weather and close to create highly sheltered spaces, often used on premium restaurant and hotel projects.
ZIP screens – Side‑channel guided fabrics that stay tensioned in wind, offered in clear, mesh or solar fabrics, and typically integrated with pergola controls.
Rotating louvre side panels – Adjustable aluminium louvres that can be angled to block wind while maintaining some view and airflow.
Fixed glazing or panels – Sometimes Samson specifies a permanent solution to one exposed side, with more flexible, retractable options on others to balance budget and performance.

Pergola systems used by Samson are engineered with defined wind load limits; in practice, most roofs are operated safely up to around Beaufort 5–6, with systems able to retract when stronger winds are forecast to protect the fabric and mechanisms.

Where Samson commercial pergolas are used

Samson Outdoor Living installs retractable pergolas and canopies across a wide range of commercial sectors in the UK.

Typical applications include:

Pubs and beer gardens – Turning open gardens into zoned, reservable areas with 50+ covers, without altering the main building.
Restaurants – Creating premium, bookable outdoor dining zones that maintain an open‑air feel while protecting guests from sun, rain and wind.
Hotels and hospitality – Adding covered dining, lounge and event space to courtyards, pool areas and roof terraces while keeping a consistent look with the building.
Cafés and coffee shops – Extending pavement or courtyard seating hours, with wall‑mounted systems that sit neatly against the shopfront.
Event and wedding venues – Providing flexible, weather‑protected outdoor areas for ceremonies, receptions and corporate events, which can be opened up fully when conditions allow.

Schools and nurseries – Delivering covered outdoor play and dining areas with UV and rain protection that increase usable space during the school day.

1. Initial consultation

Contact the Samson commercial team on 01933 448 844 or send an online enquiry with photos and rough dimensions of your outdoor space. The team will discuss how you use the area now, what you want to achieve, budget range, planning considerations and any structural limitations.

2. Site survey and proposal

Samson will arrange a site visit to take measurements, review fixing options, assess drainage routes and talk through design possibilities.

3. Planning and approvals
where needed

For some commercial sites, works can proceed under permitted development; others, such as listed buildings or conservation areas, will need consent. Samson regularly supports commercial clients with planning by providing technical drawings, specifications and experience of how local authorities view retractable structures.

4. Manufacture and project
management

Once you approve the specification, Samson places the order with the chosen manufacturer. Lead times for made‑to‑measure commercial pergolas are typically several weeks. During this period, Samson coordinates manufacture, delivery, any groundwork or electrical preparation, and plans installation around your trading hours as far as possible.

5. Professional installation

Samson’s own installation teams are experienced in working on live commercial sites and follow appropriate health and safety procedures. Most wall‑mounted systems are fitted within a few days, while larger freestanding or multi‑bay structures may take longer. Installers test and commission the system before handover.

6. Handover, training and
aftercare

At completion, Samson provides user training for your team, maintenance guidance, warranty documentation and contact details for support. Clear operating limits (such as wind thresholds and snow loading guidance) are explained so staff can use the system confidently.

Visit the Samson Outdoor Living showroom

Samson operates one of the UK’s more comprehensive outdoor living showrooms at its Wellingborough base, with multiple full‑size working pergola and canopy systems on display.

At the showroom you can:

See Weinor, Markilux and KE commercial pergola systems in operation
Compare fabric types, including waterproof and high‑UV options, and see louvre roofs in person
View side infills such as glass walls, vertical blinds and ZIP screens
Experience integrated LED lighting and infrared heating solutions
Review fabric sample books, frame colour options and technical literature

Bringing photos and dimensions of your site allows a Samson commercial specialist to discuss ideas on the spot and relate the showroom models to your project.

6-8 Meadow Close, Ise Valley Industrial Estate, Finedon Road, Wellingborough, Northants, NN8 4BH

Our Outdoor Living team welcome you to visit our comprehensive showroom which is one of the largest in the UK, since 1992 at the same location. We have inside and outside working models of awnings, pergolas, glass verandas, retractable canopies and umbrellas. We also have a large range of entrance and garage doors as we are part of the Dovegroup and have doors, security products and electric gates in our portfolio. Our range of products that you can use for yourself and relish in the joy of outdoor living are from our trusted, impressive manufacturers such as Markilux and Weinor.

Why Samson Outdoor Living?

Established commercial specialist

Samson has longstanding experience supplying and installing retractable canopies, pergolas and related outdoor structures for pubs, restaurants, schools and other commercial premises across the UK. This background ranges from modest café terraces to more complex hotel and multi‑zone installations.

Focus on proven European manufacturers

By concentrating on Weinor, Markilux and KE Outdoor Design in its core range, Samson offers systems with strong track records, robust warranties and the engineering needed for UK sites. This curated approach helps ensure reliability and availability of parts over the long term.

End‑to‑end project management

Commercial clients work with Samson as a single point of contact, from initial design and planning support through manufacture, installation and aftercare. This reduces the risk of mis‑matched components and avoids managing multiple contractors for one outdoor structure.

Commercial‑grade installation standards

Samson’s fitting teams are used to working around trading hours, observing site safety rules and coordinating with other trades where necessary. Installations are covered by appropriate insurance and, where relevant, follow CDM requirements.

Ongoing support and maintenance

After installation, Samson provides warranty support and can offer ongoing maintenance and servicing, including fabric replacements, motor or control upgrades and repairs where needed. This long‑term support helps protect your investment beyond the initial project.

Working showroom and demonstration sites

As well as the Wellingborough showroom, many Samson commercial installations act as real‑world references. Being able to see and operate working systems before you commit is a genuine advantage over choosing from a brochure alone.

Get a commercial retractable pergola quote

To start a project with Samson Outdoor Living:

Phone – Call 01933 448 844 to speak with the Samson commercial team during office hours.
Email – Send details and photos of your space to enquiries@samsonawnings.co.uk for an initial view and budget guidance.
Online form – Complete the online enquiry form on the Samson website with your project details; a team member will usually respond within one working day.
Showroom visit – Visit the Wellingborough showroom to see systems in action and discuss options face to face.

When you contact Samson, it helps to include:

Photos of the area from several angles
Approximate length and width
Building type and wall construction (where applicable)
Desired number of covers or guests
Any known planning or heritage constraints
Rough timescale for when you’d like the system in place

The Samson commercial team will normally give a budget indication quickly and then move to a detailed proposal after a site survey, with all quotations and initial consultations provided without obligation.