A Guide to Marko by Carlisle

Marko was acquired by Carlisle in 1999, adding cloth tabletop accessories to the brand's catalog of commercial foodservice and healthcare products. To ensure every operator can find the right napkins, tablecloths, and table coverings for their concept, Marko's catalog of products includes a variety of materials and colors that will look great in fast-casual cafés to fine-dining restaurants.

Restaurant Cloth Napkins

According to a study published by Milliken & Company in 2013, cloth napkins can be used by restaurants hoping to elevate their customers' satisfaction and experiences. That's because restaurants using them are often viewed as having better food quality, superior service, and a dedication to environmentally friendly practices.¹ The design team at Marko understands the importance of high-quality table linens that can stand up to the wear and tear of the foodservice industry, from folding and storing to laundering and daily use, since stained and damaged cloth napkins can negatively impact a diner's experience. That's why the bulk of the brand's napkin catalog is made of SoftWeave™, a Milliken fabric.

SoftWeave is a polyester blend designed to mimic the appeal of cotton while eliminating the risk of fading, shrinking, and linting, performance issues that cotton and cotton blends are known for having. This durable fabric also resists pilling and snagging and will not stain as easily, helping operators save costs with a lower replacement rate for their cloth napkins. Marko's SoftWeave napkins are pre-cut in an 18-inch by 22-inch size, and have a hemmed edge for a polished and professional appearance.

Tablecloths & Table Coverings

Tablecloths and other table coverings are often used to enhance the appearance of a dining room and dampen the sounds of clinking flatware and scraping dinnerware. They are also a popular choice for catered events, banquets, and outdoor dining areas. Fabric tablecloths are preferred by upscale restaurants and catering companies for private events, while family-style restaurants and operations with outdoor spaces often seek out sturdier options.

Because the type of table covering needed depends largely on the type of restaurant and occasion, Marko tablecloths are available in 100 percent polyester, polyester blends, and vinyl. Each of these materials is available in an array of colors, from traditional white and subtle earth tones to bright shades of red and blue, as well as in patterned designs. Vinyl table coverings may be in used in casual restaurants that want to ensure waitstaff can quickly and easily wipe down tables between seatings, but are most often used in outdoor seating areas because vinyl can stand up to the elements.

Marko tablecloths can also be paired with table padding, which can make tables more comfortable for diners and further dull the noise created by tabletop items during service. Clear vinyl may also be used to cover fabric tablecloths and prevent damage from spills and moisture.

1. U.S. Consumers Prefer Cloth Napkins, Willing to Pay more at Establishments Using Them. Milliken. Accessed June 2018.