Are you passionate about creating a vibrant atmosphere for people to unwind, socialize, and enjoy quality drinks? If so, opening your own bar might be the perfect venture for you! But where do you start? Follow this step-by-step guide to navigate the process of launching your dream bar.
Step 1: Develop a Clear Concept
Firstly, decide on the unique selling proposition of your bar. Think about factors like the target audience, location, ambiance, and drink menu. Will you serve craft cocktails, a wide range of beers, or offer an extensive wine list? Having a clear concept will help your bar stand out in a competitive market. DO NOT try to be all things to all people. No one does everything great nor should they. Find your lane, be specific, and aim to be the best at it.
Step 2: Create a Business Plan
A comprehensive business plan is crucial for securing funding and keeping your bar on track. Key components should include:
- Executive summary (one or two paragraphs succinctly describing the Plan)
- Company description (who is the company?)
- Market analysis (why your concept will work)
- Product offerings (what will you be the best at?)
- Marketing and sales strategies (how will you get butts in seats?)
- Management and organization structure (who’s running the show?)
- Financial projections, including Business Model and Prime Cost percentages (VERY Important. If the money doesn’t work, your business doesn’t work.)
- Profit First for Bars (MacDaddy PF Cash) Buy and read or listen to the book, Profit First for Restaurants by Kasey Anton.
Step 3: Raise Money – If needed
Secure funding with a solid business plan in hand, approach banks, investors, or other financing options to secure funding. Be prepared to present your plan and discuss your bar’s unique selling points.
Step 4: Choose a Prime Location
… and learn everything about it.
Step 5: Design Your Bar and Source Equipment
Design your bar with your target audience and brand identity in mind. Prioritize functionality and workflow, as well as aesthetics. Simultaneously, invest in high-quality equipment to ensure a smooth operation. You’ll need items like coolers, glassware, draft systems, and possibly a professional sound system. (And know and embrace your budget.)
Step 6: Select Suppliers and Obtain Necessary Permits
Research and select suppliers for your beverages and any food items on your menu. With your suppliers and equipment in place, make sure you have all the required permits and licenses to operate your bar. These may include liquor licenses, business licenses, health permits, and building permits. (Note: Some suppliers may also “lend” or “lease” you equipment if you agree to sell their products. It’s worth looking into…)
Step 7: Hire and Train Staff
You should already have an idea in mind of who your ideal staff is and where to find them. If not, stay tuned for a separate blog on that. Or Google it!
Step 8: Develop a Marketing Strategy
To simply just “know” that you have a cool bar and everyone will want to be there is not enough. A marketing strategy of “if we build it, they will come” is no strategy at all.
Step 9: Implement Profit First! (MacDaddy PF Cash Management System)
Read the book, Profit First for Restaurants by Kasey Anton. Preorder it HERE!
Step 10: Launch and Iterate
With everything in place, it’s time to open your bar! Once you’re up and running, regularly evaluate your business performance and adjust your strategies as needed. Continuously refine your drink menu, marketing efforts, and customer experience to ensure long-term success.
Opening a bar requires careful planning, but with passion, determination, and the right strategy, (as well as reading the book, Profit First for Restaurants) you can turn your dream into a thriving business. By following these ten steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a bar that will be a cherished part of your community. Cheers to your future success!
