A bar is the perfect spot to hang out with friends while sipping the best cocktails. People come to bars for the atmosphere and drinks, but if the bar is poorly managed, it can quickly become a place people avoid. On the other hand, a well-run bar can generate a steady flow of customers. Since the competition in the bar industry can be high, running a successful bar requires a good understanding of the latest trends and customer preferences.
But how can bar managers ensure their business is successful? Let’s learn some best tactics for running a profitable and renowned bar.
Get the Location Right:
The right location is crucial to the success of any bar. Choosing an area with high foot traffic is essential, so customers can easily find you. You should also look for a space that fits your target audience. For instance, if you’re targeting younger people, choosing an area close to the university is best. It’s also important to consider the parking situation and other nearby amenities to make things convenient for your customers.
Be Compliant with Rules and Regulations:
Regulations can vary significantly by jurisdiction. So, it is critical to stay on top of the local laws and regulations governing bars, such as age restrictions, alcohol licensing rules, and smoke-free laws. Moreover, ensure you have all the necessary permits and licenses to avoid fines and other penalties. Encouraging your staff to take an RBS certification course is a great way to get them up to speed with the latest regulations.
Create a Unique Atmosphere:
Your bar should have an inviting atmosphere that stands out from the competition. Create a look and feel that appeals to the target audience. You can also customize the menu according to your customers’ tastes. An exciting mix of drinks and bar snacks will ensure customers return for more. So, add some yummy savories like chicken wings and tacos to the menu, and you’ll be sure to attract more customers.
Engage with the Local Community:
Your bar should become part of the local community. Get involved in local events and charity activities to get your name out there. It will help you create a good reputation in the local area and attract more customers. You can also offer happy hours or special deals to the locals to show your support for the community. But most importantly, show your customers that you value them and strive to create a memorable experience every time they visit.
Promote Your Bar:
Unless people know about your bar, they won’t be able to visit it. Advertise your business through various channels such as Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads.
You can also use email campaigns and direct mailers to create brand awareness. Furthermore, it’s important to have a website for your bar and ensure it looks professional.
Finally, add your menu so guests can check out the drinks and food items before their visit. Testimonials help too.
Keep Up with Trends:
The bar industry is constantly changing, so you need to stay ahead of the curve. Research the latest trends in drinks and customer preferences so that you can customize your bar accordingly. For instance, you can offer trendy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks like Moscow mules, craft beers, sangrias, etc. You can also introduce board games, karaoke, and other activities to keep your customers entertained.
Create a Signature Drink:
What brings people to your bar? Maybe it’s the vibe. Perhaps it’s a fantastic drink. To stand out from the competition, you can create a signature drink that’s unique and delicious. It will give your bar a special charm, drive more people to visit, and eventually make you more money.
Examine your best-selling drinks and contemplate how you can put a spin on them to make them even more interesting for your customers. For example, instead of just creating a vodka drink, get innovative with the flavors you infuse it with.
Always Be Well-Stocked:
It’s a bummer when a customer orders a beer only to find out that you have run out of it. Make sure the bar is well-stocked at all times to avoid such awkward situations. Monitor the inventory regularly to know when to replenish your stock before running out completely.
Furthermore, keep track of every order and make sure everything is invoiced correctly. This way, you’ll know exactly what’s being sold and how much money you make. There are software products available to help with inventory management.
Measure the Liquor:
When making drinks, it’s essential to use the correct quantity of liquor. Over-pouring can spike up costs quickly, so make sure you use a jigger to measure the portions. Through this, you’ll be able to keep your profits in check.
It’ll also help to train your bartenders to use the right portions. Finally, keep an eye on them so they don’t over-serve customers, and make sure they comply with the liquor laws.
Put Your Customers First:
The customer is king, so make sure you give them first-class service. Treat everyone warmly and with respect, no matter how busy the bar gets. So, hire staff with excellent people skills. These include traits such as being friendly and polite, strong communication skills, and the ability to multitask.
You can also offer special discounts and rewards to your loyal customers. Give them a reason to come back again and again. It will help increase your customer base over time.
Make Sure Your Bar is Clean:
Old beer bottles, overflowing ashtrays, and sticky spots can be a huge turnoff for your customers. Keep the bar area clean and tidy at all times to give off a positive vibe. Ensure the bartenders wash their hands frequently and use proper sanitizing techniques. You must also check the equipment regularly to make sure everything is in good working order.
Offer Something for Everyone:
Dietary restrictions and personal preferences are more common than ever. Make sure your bar caters to all types of customers, even those with special needs. Stock up on vegan-friendly options, gluten-free beers, and other unique drinks everyone can enjoy. You’ll be surprised at how much this will help you grow as a business. Some of the best bars offer a wide range of food and drinks to appeal to different customer groups.
Final Thoughts:
Running a buzzworthy bar can be a lot of work. But with the right strategies, like those listed above, you can make it a success. You must also scope out the competition to understand what they’re doing right and wrong. Then, capitalize on their mistakes and use them to your advantage. Some essential elements that’ll float your bar include bartenders with cheerful personalities, an excellent layout, and a wide range of drinks. Good luck!
