These ten tips will help you run a successful bar, whether you have a trendy wine bar or a neighborhood watering hole.
Find out about other bars.
List your top bars and make a list. Then decide why. Take note of any similarities and make a list. Visit them. You can chat with the owner or take a seat at a bar to observe the service. Take notes.
Next, list the establishments you don’t like and look for similarities. While it may not be fun to go to a bar you don’t enjoy, you can still learn a lot by watching what they do.
You don’t have to stop there. You should also know what the bars are like in your area. Spend enough time learning about the area and what doesn’t work.
Make sure your finances are in good shape.
Lack of funds is a major problem for many bar owners when learning how to operate a bar. While startup costs are important, it is also expensive to run a successful bar. You need to be prepared. Your bar’s marketing and inventory can all be covered by business funding. It would help if you found the right investors so you could choose a loan for your business.
Optimize your bar layout.
Overcrowded areas are every person’s worst nightmare. Be sure to think about your customers when designing the layout of your bar. What amount of standing room do your customers need? What number of barstools are you able to add without reducing the space? Thinking about your customers’ needs when designing your bar can be very beneficial.
Establish relationships with your neighbors
You must build a relationship with your customers as you learn how to run a bar. Other local businesses can greatly enhance your business, whether a clothing store or a bar. Other owners have an advantage over you because they are familiar with the local area and can offer advice on how to succeed. You might work together in the future on special promotions and marketing campaigns.
It is impossible to survive on the weekend.
Although Saturday nights are the busiest, it is possible to keep your bar open if customers only come in on Saturdays. Most bar owners offer regular promotions and events to encourage customers to visit the bar during the week.
Your bar’s customer service is what makes or breaks your business. Customers will remember rude or inattentive bartenders and will be less likely to return. Ensure your employees have a friendly and customer-oriented attitude when hiring and training them.
Inventory planning is a must.
It is not difficult to see that planning inventory can be tedious. However, it is crucial to learn how to increase bar inventory. Inventory management software is essential to running a successful bar. It will allow you to see what’s in stock and what must be ordered. You can also use analytics software to analyze your sales and look for trends. It also helps you forecast inventory. Your bar can grow if you make decisions based on your data.
Keep your drink menu simple.
Ever feel overwhelmed when you look at a drink menu? Too many choices can sometimes hurt customers. You can also see your costs rise due to the increased inventory and potential for waste.
Keep your menu simple and try new drinks every week or month. A great benefit of trying new drinks is that your customers will return for more.
Create a signature drink.
A signature drink only available at your bar can be a great way to get attention in the community and attract new customers. Once you have settled on your signature drink, you should promote it at your bar and via social media.
You can offer something for everyone.
These days, it’s common to have dietary restrictions. There is an opportunity to reach a large market that isn’t well served, such as vegans, gluten-free, and people with dairy problems. You should ensure that all guests can enjoy your menu. Explore gluten-free options and look into cocktails made with natural ingredients.
