Finance for Pool Tables

Why pool table finance is trending in the UK

The British-style pool table is no longer confined to clubs and halls. It has moved into living rooms, garden rooms, and hospitality venues across the UK. Several forces are at work. First, the home entertainment boom has reshaped spending priorities, with households willing to invest in premium leisure products that enhance time at home. Secondly, the market itself is expanding: the British pool tables segment is valued at around $131 million in 2024 and is expected to reach roughly $205 million by 2032, a steady 6.7% compound growth rate. Growth at this pace signals confidence for both buyers and businesses.

At the commercial end, bars, restaurants, and hotels are installing professional-grade tables to attract customers, host leagues, and increase dwell time. A table can become a focal point that boosts footfall and secondary spend on food and drink. For homes, a table offers a durable, social activity that appeals across generations. This is particularly compelling during periods when people want quality experiences without leaving the house.

Of course, costs are moving. Slate, felt, and timber prices have climbed, and trade frictions have affected import components. That puts upward pressure on sticker prices and lead times. Even so, demand for premium and bespoke tables has held firm, helped by innovation in design, sustainable materials, and custom finishes. Consumers are asking for tables that match interiors and last for years.

Understanding APR is not just about percentages - it is about the true cost of play over time.

Finance can smooth the outlay, align payments with usage, and preserve savings for other priorities. If you are weighing a purchase for your home or venue, the right finance structure can make a high-quality table attainable while keeping monthly costs predictable.

Who will benefit

If you are a UK homeowner seeking a centrepiece for family and friends, finance can turn a significant one-off spend into manageable instalments without compromising on build quality. For renovators and self-builders, it can be folded into broader home-improvement budgeting and timed around cash flow.

Hospitality operators can use finance to deploy capital efficiently. Rather than tying up cash in fixtures, you can match payments to projected revenue from increased footfall, leagues, or event nights. The approach also helps multi-site operators standardise equipment across venues and refresh older tables without large upfront costs.

Ways to pay

1. 0% promotional finance - short-term interest-free on selected models or partners.

2. Fixed-rate interest-bearing loans - predictable monthly payments over 12-60 months.

3. Buy now, pay later - deferred start, then interest if not cleared in time.

4. Hire purchase - own the table after final instalment and option fee.

5. Lease for business use - treat as an operating expense, with upgrade paths.

6. Credit card with introductory rate - flexible but watch revert APR and fees.

7. Secured homeowner loan - larger limits, but your property is at risk.

Pounds and practicalities

Can you qualify?

Eligibility depends on age, residency, income stability, and credit history. Lenders will assess affordability by reviewing your monthly income and essential outgoings, as well as any existing credit commitments. A strong file with on-time repayments, low utilisation, and a consistent address history usually secures better rates and longer terms. If you have a thinner or recovering credit profile, you may still be approved, but with a higher APR or a request for a deposit.

For business customers, underwriters look at trading history, profitability, and venue forecasts. Demonstrating demand - for example, through league partnerships, projected play fees, or historic footfall - can strengthen your case. If your venue is new, a clear plan for usage and pricing will help.

Kandoo is a UK-based retail finance broker that can match your requirements to a panel of lenders, improving the chance of finding a suitable option for your circumstances. We focus on clarity, so you understand repayments, fees, and ownership at the outset.

From quote to cue - step-by-step

1. Define table size, slate type, finish, and budget.

2. Get a firm quote from a reputable UK retailer.

3. Choose finance type and preferred term length.

4. Check eligibility and submit a brokered application.

5. Provide ID, income proof, and any venue evidence.

6. Receive decision, review APR, fees, and conditions.

7. Sign digitally and pay deposit if required.

8. Schedule delivery, installation, and post-install checks.

Upsides and trade-offs

Look before you leap

Think carefully about how often the table will be used, who will play, and whether the space can accommodate the size plus cueing room. If raw material costs continue to rise, buying sooner may reduce exposure to higher prices, but do not be rushed into a decision that strains your budget. For venues, validate demand with a small pilot night or a local league before committing to multiple units.

Material choice matters. Slate gives a truer roll and longer life, while solid woods and eco-conscious finishes can complement interiors and sustainability goals. Customisation options are attractive, but they can extend lead times and limit returns policies. Finally, read the finance agreement carefully so you know what happens if a promotional 0% period ends, and how delivery, installation, and warranty support are handled.

Alternatives to consider

1. Save and pay in full to avoid interest entirely.

2. Choose a quality refurbished table with warranty.

3. Rent short-term for events to test demand.

4. Split cost with housemates or a venue partner.

5. Opt for a multi-game table to maximise usage.

FAQs

Q: Is now a good time to buy a pool table in the UK? A: Market growth and robust demand suggest resilience. While material costs have pushed prices up, financing can spread payments and secure a premium table before further increases.

Q: What size table suits a typical UK home? A: British 6ft or 7ft tables fit most rooms. Ensure at least 1.5m of cueing space around all sides to avoid awkward shots and wall scuffs.

Q: Slate or MDF - which should I choose? A: Slate offers superior play and longevity, ideal for frequent use or venues. MDF is cheaper and lighter, but less stable over time. Consider expected usage and budget.

Q: How do business venues justify the investment? A: Revenue from play fees, leagues, and increased dwell can offset instalments. Build a forecast using conservative utilisation and compare against fixed monthly payments.

Q: Will finance harm my credit score? A: A hard search may cause a small, short-lived dip. Consistent on-time payments help build your profile. Missed payments or defaults will negatively affect your score.

Q: Can I get 0% finance? A: Some retailers and lenders offer promotional 0% for short terms on selected models. Check eligibility, minimum spend, and what happens after the promo period ends.

Q: Are bespoke designs harder to finance? A: Usually not, but higher prices may require a deposit or longer term. Confirm lead times, return rights, and that finance is not activated until dispatch is confirmed.

Ready to get started

When you are ready to compare finance options for a pool table, Kandoo can help you find a suitable lender and term for your circumstances. We make the costs, timelines, and ownership structure clear upfront, so you can choose with confidence and enjoy better play sooner.

Important information

This article is for information only and is not financial advice. Finance is subject to status, affordability, and terms set by the lender. Always read the agreement and consider independent advice if unsure.