The evolution of stretch tents in the UK

Stretch tents made their mark in South Africa when they burst onto the local events scene in the early 2 000’s. Also known as Bedouin tents and Flextents, it was only in 2007 that they found their way to the United Kingdom. Fast-forward seven years ahead to 2014, we look at the evolution of stretch tents in the UK events industry.

The evolution of stretch tents in the UK
A chino deck cover flawlessly complementing the London skyline.

Intent Productions, under the guidance of the charismatic South African Carl Louw, was first to introduce stretch tents into the United Kingdom. Today they are the leading stretch tent company and brand in the UK. RHI is proud to be the exclusive supplier to this growing and dynamic company. Their professionalism and Carl’s hands-on approach has been the cornerstone of their success.

RHI Stretch Tents, together with Intent Productions, gained an early and practical understanding of the needs of this new market. Its often wet and cold conditions are only one of the challenges we faced in the development phase, having to evolve our product to meet these demands. In many cases it is required that the structure be heated for events, and for this purpose RHI offers “Integrated Tent Accessories”.

What is RHIs Integrated Tent Accessories?

Integrated Tent Accessories comprise of the following:

  • Doors: to seal off entrances and exits.
  • Side skirts: which cover the edges of the tent when they are pegged to the ground.
  • Gutters: which enables the tent to be linked with a waterproof join.

The same systems are also applied during hot conditions to make air-conditioning effective.

Following the success of Intent Productions, a booming market has evolved with stretch tents firmly entrenched in the UK events scene. Traditional event planners, tent hire companies and wedding and festival organisers have embraced stretch tents. Their beauty, versatility and flexible rigging configurations make it possible for events to take place in spaces that were never possible, or even thought of before. In the cold winter months stretch tents are ideal for pubs and restaurants to temporarily cover outside areas to maximise their trading potential.

RHI Stretch Tents can now be found throughout the United Kingdom, including Scotland and Ireland. We are proud to be a pioneer in the UK stretch tent industry.

Get in touch with our experts for assistance with all your questions.

The evolution of stretch tents in the UK: white stretch tent
A white stretch tent at the races in the UK.
The evolution of stretch tents in the UK: chino stretch tent
Linked chino stretch tent.