As the owner or manager of a bar, success often depends on much more than just pouring great drinks. You must be well-versed in marketing, regulations, health codes, and staff management — the list goes on for miles! But running a successful bar becomes easy with some tried and proper tactics.
From streamlining inventory processes to providing out-of-this-world customer service, here are our top tips for running a profitable establishment. Read on to learn how you can ensure your business thrives this year!
1. Get The Necessary Permits To Sell Liquors
Before opening your doors, ensure you’ve obtained the necessary permits to sell beer, wines, liquors, and food. These requirements vary from state to state, so it’s best to research beforehand. For example, if you’re from Austin, you might want to know how to get a Texas liquor license before starting your venture. The process involves filling out an application, completing a background check, and attending a TABC-approved seller/server training course. While it may take some time and effort to obtain the license, the benefits of being able to sell liquor far legally outweigh the initial investment.
2. Develop a Distinct Menu
Creating a menu that appeals to your target customers is essential for success. Knowing your market’s preferences and dietary needs will help you cook dishes that make them crave more. Whether it’s a sweet treat or a savory delight, your menu should reflect your brand’s unique taste and style. Also, consider how you will price your offerings. You don’t want to underprice or overprice your food and drinks, as this could be a major deterrent for potential customers.
3. Invest in Quality Furniture and Decor
Your bar’s decor and furniture are critical components of its success. The suitable chairs, tables, and lighting will create an inviting atmosphere that customers will love. Invest in quality furniture to ensure your guests have a comfortable experience while sipping their favorite drinks and noshing delicious appetizers.
You should also consider the colors you’ll use to decorate your bar. Choose colors that create a relaxing, inviting atmosphere and match the theme of your establishment. Warm colors like orange, yellow, and red can add a sense of cheer to the space, while cool tones like blue and green will give guests an air of calmness.
4. Hire Experienced Bartenders and Provide Ongoing Training
The importance of hiring experienced bartenders cannot be overstated. Not only do seasoned professionals know how to whip up the perfect cocktails, but they also have the skills to handle difficult situations that may arise during service. But simply finding experienced bartenders is not enough.
Ongoing training ensures your team remains current with the latest industry trends and techniques. Hold regular meetings to discuss customer service, safety protocols, and new ways to boost performance.
5. Offer Specials to Increase Sales During Slower Periods
As the saying goes, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” For bar owners, this means that when sales slow down, it’s time to get creative. Offering specials is a great way to get customers through the door and increase sales during slower periods. Whether a discounted happy hour or a “buy one, get one free” promotion, a well-executed special can entice customers to try new drinks and stay longer, boosting overall revenue.
You can turn slow nights into profitable ones when experimenting with different specials and promoting them effectively. The next time you find yourself in a slow period at your bar, don’t give up — get creative and start offering specials that will keep your customers coming back for more.
6. Create an Online Presence
In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for businesses to thrive. Bars, in particular, can greatly benefit from social media platforms to connect with their audience. You can easily share your delicious drinks, upcoming events, and enticing specials with Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
If you consistently post engaging content, respond promptly to customer inquiries, and utilize hashtags, you can grow your online following and boost their foot traffic organically. A strong social media presence in a crowded market can make all the difference for a successful bar.
Conclusion
Running a successful bar business can be difficult and sometimes overwhelming. With careful planning, organization, and the right team of staff members, you can create an atmosphere that will keep patrons coming back. Specific steps must be taken to ensure success, from obtaining necessary permits to developing a unique and desirable menu to investing in quality furniture and creating an online presence via social media. With the right combination of tools and dedication, you can turn your bar into an oasis for customers looking for great drinks, food, music, and more.
