South Africa is a gem in Africa, known for its vibrant economy and stunning landscapes. As an international hub for tourism and major events, South Africa sees a high demand for marquee tents and event structures throughout the year.
However, when searching online for a reliable event tent supplier, the overwhelming amount of information can make the process challenging. To make your marquee tent sourcing experience smoother, I’ve compiled a list of trusted South African event tent suppliers. Additionally, I’ll share valuable tips for selecting the right marquee tent to suit your specific needs, ensuring that your event is both successful and memorable. I hope this guide helps you navigate the process with ease.
Top Marquee Tent Suppliers In South Africa
We have had the privilege of working with numerous tent suppliers across South Africa, and through our experience, we’ve identified some of the most renowned and reliable brands in the marquee tent industry. These suppliers have built strong reputations for their high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Whether you’re planning a large event, wedding, or festival, these companies offer a wide range of marquee tents to meet diverse needs. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top marquee tent suppliers in South Africa to help you make an informed decision for your next event.
| Company Name | Overview | Product Range | Locations | Website | Contact |
| Jieol | Leading Marquee Tent and Tensile Membrane Structure Manufacturer In South Africa | Event Tents, Wedding Tent, Concert Tent, Dome Tent, Tensile Membrane Tent | Johannesburg/China | Jieoltent.com | Contact |
| Tentickle Stretch Tents | Industry leader, one of the first to bring marquee tents into the mainstream in South Africa. | Waterproof and fire-retardant marquees, customizable sizes, shapes, and colors, tents for sale and rental | Cape Town, Johannesburg, and across South Africa | www.tentickle-stretchtents.com | Contact |
| Tent King | Established in 2010, leader in Bedouin Stretch Tents and Marquee Tents manufacturing. | Bedouin Stretch Tents, Marquee Tents | South Africa | www.tentsking.co.za | Contact |
| SA Marquee & Tents | Leading frame tent manufacturers, offering discount tents for sale online. | Frame Tents, Alpine Tents, Stretch Tents, Disaster Relief / Army Tents | South Africa | samarquee.net | Contact |
| Boss Tents | Established in 1994, one of the oldest, top manufacturers and wholesalers of tents. | Alpine Tents, Aluminium Tents, Frame Tents, Peg and Pole Tents, Bedouin Tents, Stretch Tents, Marquee Tents, Pagoda Tents, Storage Warehouse Tents | Durban, Johannesburg, East London, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth | www.bosstents.co.za | +27 314654604 |
| Rainbow Inflatables | Leading manufacturer of inflatable products and marquee tents. | Marquee tents, Inflatable products | Gauteng | www.rainbowinflatables.co.za | Contact |
| Tent Technics | Established in 2010, top supplier, distributor, and wholesaler in South Africa. | Stretch Tents, Marquee Tents, Freezers, Chillers, Tiffany Chairs | Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria, nationwide | www.tenttechnics.co.za | Contact |
| Sunbow Tent Manufacture | Established in 1991, with 29 years of experience in tent manufacturing. | Various types of tents | Umbogintwini, Amanzimtoti | sunbowmarquee.co.za | Contact |
| Royal Tent | Established in 1998, leading manufacturer, distributor, supplier, and wholesaler. | Tents, Tarps, Marquees, Chairs, Tables, Chillers, VIP toilets | 49 Westmead Road, Pinetown | www.royaltent.co.za | Contact |
| Goldman Tents | Top tents manufacturer providing high-end quality tents and accessories. | Customized tents, Large event marquee structures (5m to 50m wide) | Johannesburg | goldmantents.com | Contact |
Types of Marquee Tents Popular in South Africa
Marquee tents are essential for many events in South Africa, offering both functionality and aesthetics. Different types cater to various needs, from weddings to corporate functions. Below are some of the most popular marquee tent types commonly used across the country.
1. Frame Tents
Frame tents, also known as German hanger structures, are highly versatile and can be installed on nearly any surface. These tents do not require center poles, providing an unobstructed interior that can be utilized fully for seating and decorations. Their versatility makes them ideal for corporate events, exhibitions, and weddings, where a clean and spacious interior is required. They come in a range of sizes to accommodate small gatherings or large events.
2. Alpine Tents
Alpine tents are often referred to as “circus tents” due to their distinctive peaked design. Made from durable materials, these tents are both visually appealing and functional, offering excellent ventilation. Alpine tents are commonly used for large gatherings such as festivals and concerts. Available in sizes ranging from 5m to 30m, they offer a dynamic and striking look while ensuring ample space for guests.
3. Peg and Pole Tents
These traditional tents are made from canvas or PVC and supported by center poles and side poles. While less versatile than frame tents, peg and pole tents are more aesthetically pleasing, often evoking a rustic or vintage charm. They are a popular choice for weddings and outdoor events where appearance is crucial. Sizes can be customized to fit the specific needs of an event.
4. Stretch Tents (Bedouin Tents)
Stretch tents, also known as Bedouin tents, are made from waterproof PVC stretch fabric, allowing them to be shaped in various ways. Their flexibility and modern design make them perfect for parties, weddings, and other outdoor events. These tents can be customized according to the available space and are especially popular for informal or creative event setups.
5. Pagoda Tents
Pagoda tents are recognized for their elegant, peaked tops and square bases, offering a refined and classy look, also called “high peak tents“. These tents can be used individually or connected in clusters for larger spaces. Commonly used for upscale events, such as weddings and corporate functions, pagoda tents are available in several sizes, with the smallest starting from 3m x 3m. Their chic appearance adds sophistication to any event setting.
These marquee tents offer a wide range of options for different events and occasions, ensuring that South African event planners can find the perfect fit for their needs. Whether for a large corporate event or an intimate wedding, these types of tents offer both practicality and style
Pricing of Marquee Tents in South Africa
Marquee tents are available in a wide range of prices, depending on the type, size, material, and whether you are purchasing or renting. For instance, smaller frame tents like the 3x6m Party Frame Tent are typically priced around ZAR 6,700, while larger options, such as a 7m x 12m Frame Tent, can cost as much as ZAR 43,500. The price of marquee tents also varies based on whether they are made from PVC or other materials. For example, a 5m x 10m PVC Marquee Tent is priced at around ZAR 12,500.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Marquee Tents
The price of marquee tents is influenced by several factors, including the material used (e.g., PVC, canvas), size, and any customization features. PVC tents tend to be more expensive due to their durability and weather resistance. Tents with special features such as clear panels, luxury finishes, or premium materials can also increase the price. For example, clear frame tents may cost as much as ZAR 22,950 for a 5m x 5m unit, while larger, custom tents can go up to ZAR 139,999.
Rental vs. Purchase Pricing Breakdown
Renting a marquee tent is often a cost-effective option for one-time or short-term events. For instance, a 6m x 6m Frame Tent for hire can cost around ZAR 1,260 per day. In contrast, purchasing a tent, like a 5m x 5m PVC Marquee Tent for ZAR 9,800, involves a larger upfront investment but may be more economical for those hosting regular events. For frequent use, purchasing a tent can save money in the long run.
Overall, the cost of marquee tents in South Africa varies significantly based on size, type, material, and whether you’re renting or buying. It’s important to evaluate your needs, event frequency, and budget to make the best decision.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Marquee Tent
When selecting a marquee tent for your event, the size of the event is a crucial factor. Consider the number of guests attending to determine the appropriate tent size. A large wedding or corporate event will require a bigger tent, while smaller gatherings may benefit from more compact options. The location also plays a role—ensure the tent fits the space available, whether it’s a grassy field, a hard surface, or an uneven outdoor area. Additionally, weather conditions are essential to consider, as some tents are more suited for rainy or windy environments.
The material and durability of the marquee tent are other key considerations. Different fabrics offer varying levels of protection against the elements. PVC-coated polyester and polyethylene are popular choices for their weather-resistant qualities. If you want to learn more about the best fabric options for tents, be sure to check out this article on tent fabrics. It will provide further insights into choosing the right material for your specific needs.
Budget is a critical factor in deciding whether to rent or purchase a marquee tent. Renting can be an ideal choice for one-time events, offering flexibility without the need for long-term storage or maintenance. However, if you anticipate frequent use of the tent, purchasing may be a more cost-effective option in the long run. Be sure to factor in all potential costs, including setup, maintenance, and transportation.
Flexibility is another consideration. If your event’s requirements may change, it’s worth considering rental options, which offer the ability to select different sizes, styles, and configurations.
Benefits of Renting vs. Buying a Marquee Tent
When deciding between renting or buying a marquee tent, cost-effectiveness is one of the key factors to consider. For one-time events, such as a birthday party or a corporate function, renting a tent is usually the most economical choice. Rental options allow you to pay only for the duration of the event, without the need for a significant upfront investment. However, for businesses or individuals who need a marquee tent on a frequent basis, such as a wedding company that regularly hosts romantic ceremonies, purchasing a tent can be a more cost-effective long-term solution.
Maintenance and storage are important considerations as well. Renting a tent means that the supplier is responsible for maintenance, repairs, and storage. This is particularly convenient for short-term event planners who do not want to deal with the hassle of maintaining and storing a large structure. In contrast, owning a tent requires regular upkeep, cleaning, and secure storage, which can become time-consuming and costly over time.
For businesses with ongoing needs, such as event planners or companies hosting frequent outdoor events, buying a marquee tent can be a long-term investment. While the initial cost may be higher, over time, it can be more economical than constantly paying rental fees. On the other hand, renting offers flexibility, allowing for a variety of tent sizes and configurations without being tied to one particular style or design.
Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy depends on how often you need the marquee tent and the level of convenience you seek.
