You love bar culture and you’ve decided that you want to open your own pub. Running a pub seems like a dream, but are you up to the task?
A good bar requires a lot of upkeep and prep work, but we want to help you get on the right path. Keep reading to learn all about how to run a pub.
The Preparation Stage
Unless you’re taking over ownership from someone else, you need to start with early preparation. This is the least fun part of managing a pub, but it’s also the most important.
Look into your local laws and regulations regarding liquor and food licenses. You cannot serve alcohol without a proper license or you will face legal ramifications.
You’ll also need to make sure that any employees have the proper documentation for serving food and drinks. Some states require that employees who handle food have a specific license.
If you’re starting your business from the ground up, learn how to make a business plan.
Gathering Food and Drinks
Many people don’t consider how they’re actually going to get their alcohol and food once they’re allowed to run their business.
Many bar owners choose to partner with local breweries and distilleries to both build goodwill in their community and have reliable access to local favorite craft beers and local liquors. Bar owners also get to buy their liquor at wholesale prices, so find the right distributor.
If you serve food, you’re going to need a wholesale food distributor and a cook, though many bars only serve basic foods such as pretzels or popcorn.
If you’re not planning on tending the bar yourself, make sure that all of your bartenders know how to make the most popular cocktails. If you have special cocktails, you should already have ingredient lists. For other “basic” cocktails (like martinis, for example), consider having a list or allowing them to use their phones for help.
Gaining and Retaining Customers
You’re going to have to market your bar, especially if you’re in a large city. You need to compete with other bar owners in your area. How are you going to rise above them?
Both in-person and digital marketing are crucial. When you first start out, focus on social media marketing. If you pay for sponsored posts, you’ll have an easy time reaching potential customers.
Try to bring your food and drinks to local festivals. Apply for a booth or sponsor the event to get your name out there.
Keeping It Running
There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes when it comes to managing a bar.
You need to make sure that everything stays legal and clean. Bars are hotbeds for people who want to get into fights and arguments, even in relaxed environments. Make sure that your employees know what to do in the event of an emergency so there are no disruptions.
We suggest hiring a professional cleaner for your bar if you have the funds. Pick one that specializes in bar and restaurant cleaning so they can take care of tasks like cleaning beer lines, keeping the kitchen dirt-free, and making sure that your customers are in a sanitary environment.
Running a Pub Takes Work
Running a pub sounds fun at first (and it is), but there’s a lot of work to do before you even open it. A bar owner’s job is never done, so get ready for a lot of responsibility on your shoulders.
Despite that, bar owners get to own something that they’re passionate about. Enjoy your time at your brand new pub.
For more helpful articles about running a business, food and drink, and more, visit the rest of our site!