sample business plan for a pub

Bar Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Bar Business Plan Outline

• Bar Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan

Start Your Bar Business Plan Here

Bar Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create a business plan for your bar or pub.

We have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their bars and pubs.

To write a successful bar business plan, you will first need to decide what type of bar you want to open. Do you plan to open a sports bar, a wine bar, a cocktail bar, or a nightclub? What kind of alcoholic beverages will you serve? Will you have live music?

You will then need to gather information about your business and the bar industry. This type of information includes data about your potential customers, marketing strategies to reach your target market, and 5-year pro-forma financial statements (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement).

Sample Bar Business Plan

The following bar business plan example gives you the key elements to include in a winning business plan:

• Executive Summary – The Executive Summary is the most important part of your business plan. It is a brief overview of your bar business concepts, its products and services, potential market opportunity, and competitive advantage.
• Company Overview – Also called the Company Analysis, here, you will provide a detailed description of your bar, its products and other services, and legal structure.
• Industry Analysis – In the Industry Analysis, you will provide an in-depth analysis of the industry in which your bar operates including major players in the local market, market size and growth, and profitability.
• Customer Analysis – In the Customer Analysis, you will identify your potential customers and provide insights into their purchasing habits. You will also create customer segments and discuss your marketing strategy for reaching them.
• Competitive Analysis – In the Competitive Analysis, you will identify your direct competition (other local bars and local businesses that serve alcohol) and provide insights into their strengths and weaknesses. You will also discuss your unique selling point and how you plan to stay ahead of the competition.
• Marketing Plan – The Marketing Plan includes a discussion of your marketing strategy to drive more foot traffic to your bar along with your pricing strategies. You will also provide a sales forecast and budget for your marketing efforts.
• Operations Plan – In the Operations Plan, you will discuss your bar’s day-to-day operations including inventory management, providing exceptional customer service, and creating loyal customers. You will also provide your business goals that you plan to achieve and a budget for your operating expenses.
• Management Team – In this section, you will provide a brief overview of your bar management team, including the bar owner, and their experience in the industry.
• Financial Plan – In this section, you will provide a three-year financial statement for your bar. This will include your income statement, projected balance sheet, and cash flow analysis.

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Bar Business Plan FAQs

What is a bar business plan.

A business plan is a planning tool used to start a new bar and/or grow your thriving bar business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your bar business plan using our Bar Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Bars?

There are many types of bars . Most bars are local bars and are known as dive bars or a neighborhood bar.  Sports bars are also a very popular business option. There are also posh and luxurious bars that craft cocktails and offer high-end alcoholic drinks. There are trendy bars that offer the latest industry trends in cocktail and wine offerings. Other bars are location-focused and are unique to the area of town or location that it is in. Many bars also serve food as an option to accompany the alcoholic drink choices.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenue and Expenses for a Bar?

The primary source of revenue for a bar are the alcoholic drink items and food sold at the establishment.

The key expenses for a bar are the costs to purchase the alcohol (beer, wine, liquor) inventory, bar equipment and supplies, overhead expenses for the staff and rent, and any marketing costs the bar chooses to partake in.

How Do You Secure Funding for Your Bar?

Bar businesses are most likely to receive funding from banks. To attract potential investors, you should have an effective bar business plan with a solid business strategy and financial plan. Another option for a bar is to obtain a small business loan to help cover startup costs. SBA loans are a popular option as they offer longer loan terms with lower interest rates. Outside investors, crowdfunding, and/or friends or family are other typical funding options.

What are the Steps To Start a Bar?

Starting a bar business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

• Write A Bar Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed bar business plan for a bar that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include market research on the local market and potential target market size, information about the services or products you will offer, the bar's concept, marketing efforts, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  
• Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your bar . This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your bar business is in compliance with local laws.
• Register Your Bar Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your bar with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining business licenses and permits (i.e., food service license and/or liquor license) as required by federal, state, and local laws. 
• Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your bar or pub , so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 
• Choose a Bar Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your business operations. 
• Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 
• Acquire Necessary Bar Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your bar business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 
• Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your bar . Your marketing strategy should include creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a thriving bar business:

• How to Start a Bar Business
• How to Open a Bar Business

Where Can I Get a Bar Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free bar business plan template PDF here . This is a sample business plan template you can use in PDF format.

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Table of Contents

For many with a passion for the nightlife and hospitality, the dream to open a bar remains persistent. If you’re one of them but are unsure about navigating the complexities of the bar industry, don’t have to worry. Writing a business plan is the first step in transforming this aspiration into a tangible reality. A detailed bar business plan will help streamline your vision, ensuring you’re well-prepared to venture into the bustling world of bar businesses with clarity and confidence.

What is A Bar Business Plan?

A bar business plan is a strategic roadmap that outlines your vision and the steps required to bring it to fruition. It encompasses every aspect of your business, from the fundamental business concept down to the intricate details of daily operations. In essence, it’s the blueprint to grow your business and ensure its longevity in a competitive market.

A great business plan doesn’t merely serve as an internal guide; it’s a persuasive tool to attract stakeholders, investors, and partners. It demonstrates how your bar will attract customers, generate profits, and stand out in the crowded nightlife landscape.

One might ask, “What makes a bar business plan unique?” It’s the blend of the universal principles of business, combined with the niche requirements of the bar industry. This includes, but is not limited to, licensing, menu crafting, entertainment provisions, and safety measures.

Given the dynamic nature of the bar industry, it’s important to include not only your immediate goals but also long-term objectives and strategies for adapting to market shifts. With a clear and comprehensive bar business plan, you’re laying a solid foundation for a successful enterprise.

Why A Business Plan Is Important For A Successful Bar Business? 

Owning a bar is a dream for many, but transforming this dream into a profitable reality requires meticulous planning and foresight. This is where a business plan plays a pivotal role.

Clear Vision and Objectives: A business plan helps establish a clear vision and set measurable objectives for your bar. Whether you aim to create a niche cocktail lounge, a bustling sports bar, or any other type of establishment, your business plan outlines the specific steps you’ll take to make your bar the go-to destination for potential customers. It provides direction and keeps all stakeholders aligned with the business’s overarching goals.

Financial Planning: One of the main reasons business owners create business plans is for robust financial planning. A bar has various financial intricacies, from sourcing ingredients to staffing and marketing expenses. A business plan ensures you’re well-equipped to manage cash flows, investments, and potential financial pitfalls. Moreover, potential investors often request a detailed business plan before committing funds, making this a crucial component for securing necessary capital.

Operational Efficiency: Every bar operates uniquely, depending on its target audience and theme. However, operational efficiency remains a consistent requirement for all bar owners. A business plan is a plan, after all, and it dives deep into the day-to-day operations, ensuring that every aspect, from supplier agreements to employee shifts, runs smoothly and cost-effectively.

Step-by-step Guide To Write A Bar Business Plan.

Navigating the world of the bar industry can be intricate, and the type of bar you want to open plays a pivotal role in shaping your business plan. Whether it’s a neighborhood bar, a high-end cocktail bar, or a wine bar with live music, each requires a distinct approach. This guide is tailored to help entrepreneurs and business owners create a comprehensive plan, ensuring the grand opening of the bar you dream of is a success.

1. Executive Summary

The executive summary is a concise overview of your entire business plan, acting as a snapshot that encapsulates the essence of your vision and strategy. Typically, it’s about one to two pages long and is placed at the beginning of your business plan, but it’s often written last.

What should you cover in an Executive Summary?

• Introduce your bar business, highlighting what makes your bar unique.
• State your mission and vision, giving clarity to the type of bar you aim to establish.
• Outline the main objectives, from your grand opening to long-term goals.
• Provide a financial overview, offering potential investors a glimpse into projected profits and growth.

2. Bar Description

This section delves into the specifics of your bar, painting a vivid picture of what patrons can expect and how you plan to operate.

What should you cover in the bar description section?

• Talk about your bar concept, whether it’s a wine bar, cocktail bar, or a bar with live music.
• Explain your unique selling proposition – what makes your bar stand out from the competition.
• Detail the operations, from opening hours to the ambiance you intend to create.

3. Market Analysis

This segment identifies and studies your potential customers, the location for your bar, and your competitors, helping you strategize accordingly.

Factors to cover:

• Target market: Define the demographics and preferences of those you plan to cater to.
• Location: An existing bar might already have an established clientele, but a new location needs careful consideration for accessibility, safety, and potential customer traffic.
• Competition: Analyze trends in the bar industry and see how competitors operate, ensuring your offerings are both competitive and unique.

4. Organization and Management

This is the operational backbone of your bar, detailing the structure of your business and the team that will run it.

What should you cover in the organization and management plan?

• Bar ownership information: Are you a sole proprietor, or is this part of a larger partnership or corporation?
• Profiles of your Bar management team: Include bios of key team members, showcasing their expertise and how they’ll contribute to running a successful bar.

5. Sample Menu

This section teases what your bar will offer in terms of food and beverages, acting as a tantalizing preview for potential patrons and investors.

What should you consider when creating a sample menu?

• Menu items: Detail the drinks and possibly accompanying food items.
• Unique Selling Proposition: Highlight specials or unique mixes. For instance, a cocktail bar might focus on signature mixes, while a wine bar could emphasize rare finds.
• Menu Pricing : Don’t forget to address pricing, taking into account costs and desired profit margins.

6. Marketing Strategy

This section delineates how you plan to attract customers to your bar and keep them coming back.

What should you cover in a marketing strategy for your bar business?

• Define your brand: From logo to interior decor, consistency is key.
• This could range from social media campaigns ,loyalty programs, SEO for website, or partnership with local businesses. 
• Considering using an  online food ordering system  in your bar
• Create a  digital menu with QR code  to make your menu easy for your customers to access online
• Sales Strategies: Special promotions, events, or partnerships that drive sales.

7. Business Operations

This segment breaks down the day-to-day functioning of your bar, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

BWhat operational issues should you address in your business plan?

• Supply chain: Detail your suppliers for everything from alcohol to garnish.
• Operating hours: Will you have a late-night license? Open only on weekends?
• Staffing: Consider the roles you need to hire for, from bartenders to security.
• Equipment: Everything from the bar counters to the sound system.

8. Financial Plan and Loans

How Many Ways to Fund Your Bar?

Securing funds to start and grow their bar business is a concern for many aspiring bar owners. While personal savings might be the go-to for some, others might look into bank loans, angel investors, or even crowdfunding campaigns. Exploring all available options can ensure you fund your bar easily and efficiently.

Important Questions to Consider When You Create Your Funding Request

Before approaching potential investors or lenders, it’s pivotal to have a clear plan detailing how the funds will be used. What renovations or modifications are necessary? What will the initial stock and equipment cost? What provisions have been made for operational costs until the bar starts turning a profit? Having these answers ready can make your funding request more compelling.

9. Financial Projections

When diving into the world of bar entrepreneurship, understanding your financial landscape is crucial.

Break-even analysis

 It’s an evaluation that helps you determine when your bar will be able to cover all its expenses and start making a profit.

To calculate the break-even point, use this formula: Break Even Point = Fixed Costs / (Price – Variable Costs)

Knowing this can help you write a more convincing business plan, highlighting the viability of your venture.

Projected profit and loss statement

A crucial part of your bar business plan that offers insights into potential profits and losses your business might encounter.

Cash flow analysis

This gives you the key elements to understand how cash moves in and out of your business. By following the bar business plan writing best practices, you can quickly and easily complete these projections. Ensuring that they include a winning strategy will make your financial plan more robust and appealing to potential investors.

Sample Bar Business Plan Template

The following is a comprehensive example of a bar business plan. It’s a great tool to guide you in writing your business plan.

Mission : To provide a unique drinking experience that celebrates local flavors and promotes community bonding.

Vision : To be the neighborhood’s top bar destination, known for its distinctive drinks and vibrant ambiance.

Bar Description : The Urban Vine, a wine-centric bar focusing on regional wines and locally sourced ingredients.

Costs : Estimated starting cost: $250,000.

Profits : Projected first-year net profit: $60,000.

2. Description of the Bar

Bar Concept : A contemporary wine bar featuring local wines and complementary tapas-style dishes.

Bar Name : The Urban Vine.

Bar Type : Wine bar with a secondary focus on craft beers.

Bar Location : 123 Vine Street, Downtown District.

Order Fulfillment : Table service and bar seating available, with an option for outdoor patio seating.

Working Hours : Monday to Thursday: 4 PM – 12 AM; Friday & Saturday: 3 PM – 1 AM; Sunday: 2 PM – 10 PM.

3. Menu Offer

Type of Food and Drink : Wine from local vineyards, craft beers, and tapas-style dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Offer : Regular wine tasting events showcasing new arrivals, paired with chef-special appetizers.

Unique Selling Point : Every wine bottle tells a local story, giving drinkers a taste of the region’s vineyards.

4. Market and Competition Analysis

Market Analysis : The Downtown District has a population predominantly comprised of working professionals aged 25-45, making it a prime location for a bar or pub.

Target Customer : Young professionals and wine enthusiasts looking for a quality drinking experience in a relaxed setting.

Size of the Target Customer : Approximately 10,000 individuals fitting the profile within a 5-mile radius.

Competition Analysis : Three other wine bars operate within the district.

Size of the Competition : Among the competitors, the largest has a seating capacity of 75, while the others can host around 50 patrons each.

Competitors’ Offer : Basic wine selections, some with occasional live music nights.

Competitors’ Prices : Average price of $8 per glass of wine and $6 for beer.

5. Investment Plan (Detailed Cost Analysis)

• Leasehold improvements: $80,000
• Furniture & Fixtures: $30,000
• Licensing & Permits: $20,000
• Initial Inventory: $40,000
• Rent: $4,000
• Salaries: $10,000
• Utilities: $1,500
• Miscellaneous: $2,500
• Total Cost : Anticipated first-year expense: $322,000.

6. Financial Forecast

 Considering the costs of starting and the projected revenue, breakeven is anticipated by month eight. The first-year projected revenue is $382,000.

Owner/Manager : Jane Doe – A passionate wine enthusiast with a background in business management.

Head Bartender : John Smith – Experienced in running a bar, skilled in crafting unique drink experiences.

Kitchen Staff : A team of three, led by Chef Anna, specializing in tapas dishes.

8. Marketing Plan

Strategies will focus on social media promotions, local partnerships, and hosting events. Ideas like wine-tasting events, collaborations with local vineyards, and monthly themed nights will be implemented. Special offers will be provided for group bookings, early bird timings, and repeat customers.

This business plan template will help prospective bar owners in crafting their unique plan to make their dream bar a reality. With a robust business strategy, The Urban Vine is set to become a renowned establishment in the Downtown District.

Tips For Creating An Effective Bar Business Plan Outline

Crafting a comprehensive bar business plan is pivotal in turning your vision into a successful venture. Here are some insightful tips to help you create an efficient outline:

Understand Your Niche : Begin by identifying the unique character of your bar. Is it a cozy neighborhood nook or a sophisticated wine bar? The specifics determine the kind of customers you’ll attract and the atmosphere you aim to create.

Include Comprehensive Details : The following bar business plan components are essential: executive summary, bar description, menu offer, market analysis, investment plans, financial forecasts, team structure, and marketing strategies. Don’t skimp on details; a comprehensive plan showcases your dedication and thoroughness.

Focus on Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) : What makes your bar stand out? Maybe it’s an exclusive range of craft beer and wine, or perhaps it’s an innovative theme. Always include this unique factor in your business plan as it’s pivotal for attracting customers.

Plan Your Offerings : Are you focusing just on drinks or do you also plan to serve a variety of food items? Highlight your primary offerings, be it beer and wine or gourmet appetizers.

Keep It Adaptable : The bar industry is ever-evolving. Ensure your business plan is flexible enough to adapt to changing trends and customer preferences.

Seek Feedback : Before finalizing, share your draft with industry professionals or trusted peers. Their insights could help you include in a winning strategy that perhaps you hadn’t thought of.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what makes a bar profitable.

A bar’s profitability hinges on multiple factors. A strategic location, a unique selling proposition, efficient cost management, and high-quality service all play pivotal roles. Moreover, understanding the preferences of your target audience and adapting accordingly, offering promotions during off-peak hours, and managing overheads effectively can significantly enhance a bar’s profit margins.

2. What is the executive summary of a bar business plan?

The executive summary is a concise overview of the bar’s business plan. It provides a snapshot of the business concept, its objectives, the financial outlook, and primary offerings. This section is particularly crucial for potential investors as it gives them a quick glance at the bar’s potential profitability and operational strategy.

3. How to write a good executive summary for a business plan with example?

When writing an executive summary, it’s essential to be clear and concise. Start with your bar’s mission and vision. Outline the primary objectives, the bar’s USP, and provide a brief financial overview.

Example: “ Sapphire Lounge aims to be the city’s premier wine bar, offering an eclectic range of international wines in a cozy, upscale environment. Located in the heart of the business district, our vision is to provide professionals a relaxing spot to unwind. We project an annual revenue of $500,000, with an initial investment of $150,000. Our unique wine-tasting events and wine-pairing dinners set us apart in the competitive landscape.”

4. Do bars make a lot of money?

The profitability of bars varies based on several factors like location, concept, management, and market demand. While some bars can yield high profits, especially those in prime locations with a unique concept, others might struggle due to competition, mismanagement, or changing market trends. However, with the right strategy, understanding of the target audience, and operational efficiency, bars can indeed be quite lucrative.  

Crafting a comprehensive business plan is the bedrock of any successful bar venture. By diligently addressing each section and meticulously detailing all elements you aim to include in your business plan, you’re not only preparing for potential challenges but also envisioning the pathway to success. Remember, a business plan is not a static document; it’s a dynamic blueprint that can evolve with the changing demands of the industry and your clientele. Every decision, from the drinks you offer to the promotions you run, should align with the vision set out in your plan, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.

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How to write a business plan for a pub?

Putting together a business plan for a pub can be daunting - especially if you're creating a business for the first time - but with this comprehensive guide, you'll have the necessary tools to do it confidently.

We will explore why writing one is so important in both starting up and growing an existing pub, as well as what should go into making an effective plan - from its structure to content - and what tools can be used to streamline the process and avoid errors.

Without further ado, let us begin!

On the menu:

Why write a business plan for a pub?

• What information is needed to create a business plan for a pub?
• How do I build a financial forecast for a pub?

The written part of a pub business plan

• What tool should I use to write my pub business plan?

Understanding the document's scope and goals will help you easily grasp its structure and content. Before diving into the specifics of the plan, let's take a moment to explore the key reasons why having a pub business plan is so crucial.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

Small businesses rarely experience a constant and predictable environment. Economic cycles go up and down, while the business landscape is mutating constantly with new regulations, technologies, competitors, and consumer behaviours emerging when we least expect it.

In this dynamic context, it's essential to have a clear roadmap for your pub. Otherwise, you are navigating in the dark which is dangerous given that - as a business owner - your capital is at risk.

That's why crafting a well-thought-out business plan is crucial to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of your venture.

To create an effective business plan, you'll need to take a step-by-step approach. First, you'll have to assess your current position (if you're already in business), and then identify where you'd like your pub to be in the next three to five years.

Once you have a clear destination for your pub, you'll focus on three key areas:

• Resources: you'll determine the human, equipment, and capital resources needed to reach your goals successfully.
• Speed: you'll establish the optimal pace at which your business needs to grow if it is to meet its objectives within the desired timeframe.
• Risks: you'll identify and address potential risks you might encounter along the way.

By going through this process regularly, you'll be able to make informed decisions about resource allocation, paving the way for the long-term success of your business.

To get visibility on future cash flows

If your small pub runs out of cash: it's game over. That's why we often say "cash is king", and it's crucial to have a clear view of your pub's future cash flows.

So, how can you achieve this? It's simple - you need to have an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your pub business plan already includes a financial forecast (which we'll discuss further in this guide). Your task is to ensure it stays current.

To accomplish this, it's essential to regularly compare your actual financial performance with what was planned in your financial forecast. Based on your business's current trajectory, you can make adjustments to the forecast.

By diligently monitoring your pub's financial health, you'll be able to spot potential financial issues, like unexpected cash shortfalls, early on and take corrective actions. Moreover, this practice will enable you to recognize and capitalize on growth opportunities, such as excess cash flow enabling you to expand to new locations.

To secure financing

A detailed business plan becomes a crucial tool when seeking financing from banks or investors for your pub.

Investing and lending to small businesses are very risky activities given how fragile they are. Therefore, financiers have to take extra precautions before putting their capital at risk.

At a minimum, financiers will want to ensure that you have a clear roadmap and a solid understanding of your future cash flows (like we just explained above). But they will also want to ensure that your business plan fits the risk/reward profile they seek.

This will off-course vary from bank to bank and investor to investor, but as a rule of thumb. Banks will want to see a conservative financial management style (low risk), and they will use the information in your business plan to assess your borrowing capacity — the level of debt they think your business can comfortably handle — and your ability to repay the loan. This evaluation will determine whether they'll provide credit to your pub and the terms of the agreement.

Whereas investors will carefully analyze your business plan to gauge the potential return on their investment. Their focus lies on evidence indicating your pub's potential for high growth, profitability, and consistent cash flow generation over time.

Now that you recognize the importance of creating a business plan for your pub, let's explore what information is required to create a compelling plan.

Information needed to create a business plan for a pub

Drafting a pub business plan requires research so that you can project sales, investments and cost accurately in your financial forecast, and convince the reader that there is a viable commercial opportunity to be seized.

Below, we'll focus on three critical pieces of information you should gather before starting to write your plan.

Carrying out market research for a pub

Before you begin writing your business plan for a pub, conducting market research is a critical step in ensuring precise and realistic financial projections.

Market research grants you valuable insights into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies, and other crucial factors that can impact the success of your business.

In the course of this research, you may stumble upon trends that could impact your pub.

You may find that people in your area prefer craft beer over traditional lager. Additionally, research could suggest that customers are looking for more non-alcoholic options in pubs.

Such market trends play a pivotal role in revenue forecasting, as they provide essential data regarding potential customers' spending habits and preferences.

By integrating these findings into your financial projections, you can provide investors with more accurate information, enabling them to make well-informed decisions about investing in your pub.

Developing the sales and marketing plan for a pub

As you embark on creating your pub business plan, it is crucial to budget sales and marketing expenses beforehand.

A well-defined sales and marketing plan should include precise projections of the actions required to acquire and retain customers. It will also outline the necessary workforce to execute these initiatives and the budget required for promotions, advertising, and other marketing efforts.

This approach ensures that the appropriate amount of resources is allocated to these activities, aligning with the sales and growth objectives outlined in your business plan.

The staffing and capital expenditure requirements of a pub

Whether you are starting or expanding a pub, it is important to have a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) in order to ensure the success of the business.

Both the recruitment and investment plans need to be coherent with the timing and level of growth planned in your forecast, and require appropriate funding.

A pub might incur costs such as wages for bartenders and wait staff, costs for cleaning supplies, costs for kitchen equipment, and costs for serving supplies. Additionally, a pub might incur costs for utilities, such as water, gas, and electricity, as well as costs for repairs and maintenance of the building and equipment.

In order to create a realistic financial forecast, you will also need to consider the other operating expenses associated with running the business on a day-to-day-basis (insurance, bookkeeping, etc.). 

Once you have all the necessary information to create a business plan for your pub, it is time to start creating your financial forecast.

What goes into your pub's financial forecast?

The objective of the financial forecast of your pub's business plan is to show the growth, profitability, funding requirements, and cash generation potential of your business over the next 3 to 5 years.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a pub are:

• The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
• The projected balance sheet ,
• The cash flow forecast ,
• And the sources and uses table .

Let's look at each of these in a bit more detail.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement for a pub shows how much revenue and profit your business is expected to make in the future.

A healthy pub's P&L statement should show:

• Sales growing at (minimum) or above (better) inflation
• Stable (minimum) or expanding (better) profit margins
• A healthy level of net profitability

This will of course depend on the stage of your business: numbers for a startup will look different than for an established pub.

The projected balance sheet of your pub

The balance sheet for a pub is a financial document that provides a snapshot of your business’s financial health at a given point in time.

It shows three main components: assets, liabilities and equity:

• Assets: are resources owned by the business, such as cash, equipment, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
• Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers) and loans.
• Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the cumulative profits and losses of the business to date (called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

Examining the balance sheet is important for lenders, investors, or other stakeholders who are interested in assessing your pub's liquidity and solvency:

• Liquidity: assesses whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short terms assets to honour its liabilities due over the next 12 months. It is a short-term focus.
• Solvency: assesses whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debt over the medium term.

Looking at the balance sheet can also provide insights into your pub's investment and financing policies.

In particular, stakeholders can compare the value of equity to the value of the outstanding financial debt to assess how the business is funded and what level of financial risk has been taken by the owners (financial debt is riskier because it has to be repaid, while equity doesn't need to be repaid).

The projected cash flow statement

A cash flow forecast for a pub shows how much cash the business is projected to generate or consume.

The cash flow statement is divided into 3 main areas:

• The operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the operations (running the business)
• The investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.)
• The financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to investors and lenders

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to make sure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

It is also a best practice to include a monthly cash flow statement in the appendices of your pub business plan so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The initial financing plan, also known as a sources and uses table, is a valuable resource to have in your business plan when starting your pub as it reveals the origins of the money needed to establish the business (sources) and how it will be allocated (uses).

Having this table helps show what costs are involved in setting up your pub, how risks are shared between founders, investors and lenders, and what the starting cash position will be. This cash position needs to be sufficient to sustain operations until the business reaches a break-even point.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what goes in the financial forecast of your pub business plan, let's shift our focus to the written part of the plan.

The written part of a pub business plan plays a key role: it lays out the plan of action you intend to execute to seize the commercial opportunity you've identified on the market and provides the context needed for the reader to decide if they believe your plan to be achievable and your financial forecast to be realistic.

The written part of a pub business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

• The executive summary
• The presentation of the company
• The products and services
• The market analysis
• The strategy
• The operations
• The financial plan

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

The executive summary, the first section of your pub business plan, serves as an inviting snapshot of your entire plan, leaving readers eager to know more about your business.

To compose an effective executive summary, start with a concise introduction of your business, covering its name, concept, location, history, and unique aspects. Share insights about the services or products you intend to offer and your target customer base.

Subsequently, provide an overview of your pub's addressable market, highlighting current trends and potential growth opportunities.

Then, present a summary of critical financial figures, such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

You should then include a summary of your key financial figures such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Lastly, address any funding needs in the "ask" section of your executive summary.

2. The presentation of the company

As you build your pub business plan, the second section deserves attention as it delves into the structure and ownership, location, and management team of your company.

In the structure and ownership part, you'll provide valuable insights into the legal structure of the business, the identities of the owners, and their respective investments and ownership stakes. This level of transparency is vital, particularly if you're seeking financing, as it clarifies which legal entity will receive the funds and who holds the reins of the business.

Moving to the location part, you'll offer a comprehensive view of the company's premises and articulate why this specific location is strategic for the business, emphasizing factors like catchment area, accessibility, and nearby amenities.

When describing the location of your pub to a third-party financier, you could emphasize the potential for high foot traffic, the convenience of its location to local businesses, and the potential for increased visibility.

You could also note the potential for the pub to be part of a vibrant social scene in the area, as well as the potential for increased profits due to a higher demand for your services.

You could also mention the potential for the pub to become a destination for travellers, as well as the potential for increased sales due to its proximity to popular tourist attractions.

Lastly, you should introduce your esteemed management team. Provide a thorough explanation of each member's role, background, and extensive experience.

It's equally important to highlight any past successes the management team has achieved and underscore the duration they've been working together. This information will instil trust in potential lenders or investors, showcasing the strength and expertise of your leadership team and their ability to deliver the business plan.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your pub business plan should include a detailed description of what your company sells to its customers. 

For example, your pub may offer a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits and a full menu of pub food. It may also offer entertainment such as live music and karaoke nights, and activities such as pool, darts, and trivia nights to attract customers.

Additionally, your pub could offer an outdoor patio to create a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Offering these products and services will give customers a variety of options to choose from and help create a unique and enjoyable experience.

The reader will want to understand what makes your pub unique from other businesses in this competitive market.

When drafting this section, you should be precise about the categories of products or services you sell, the clients you are targeting and the channel/s that you are targeting them through. 

4. The market analysis

When outlining your market analysis in the pub business plan, it's essential to include comprehensive details about customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and relevant regulations.

The primary aim of this section is to give the reader an understanding of your market's size and appeal while demonstrating your expertise in the industry.

To begin, delve into the demographics and segmentation subsection, providing an overview of the addressable market for your pub, key marketplace trends, and introducing various customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

Next, shift your focus to the target market subsection, where you can zoom in on the specific customer segments your pub targets. Explain how your products and services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these customers.

For example, your target market might include young professionals. This demographic is likely to be interested in trying new craft beers or cocktails or attending special events such as live music nights or trivia. They also may be looking for an atmosphere to socialize with friends or colleagues.

In the competition subsection, introduce your main competitors and explain what sets your pub apart from them.

Finally, round off your market analysis by providing an overview of the main regulations that apply to your pub.

5. The strategy section

When crafting the strategy section of your business plan for your pub, it's important to cover several key aspects, including your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

In the competitive edge subsection, clearly explain what sets your company apart from competitors. This is particularly critical if you're a startup, as you'll be trying to establish your presence in the marketplace among entrenched players.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you aim to maintain profitability while offering competitive prices to your customers.

For the sales & marketing plan, outline how you plan to reach and acquire new customers, as well as retain existing ones through loyalty programs or special offers.

In the milestones subsection, detail what your company has achieved thus far and outline your primary objectives for the coming years by including specific dates for expected progress. This ensures everyone involved has clear expectations.

Lastly, in the risks and mitigants subsection, list the main risks that could potentially impact the execution of your plan. Explain the measures you've taken to minimize these risks. This is vital for investors or lenders to feel confident in supporting your venture - try to proactively address any objection they might have.

Your pub could face the risk of theft or vandalism. If your pub is not well-secured, it could be exposed to burglars who may try to steal your assets, or even vandalize your property.

Additionally, your pub could face the risk of a liability lawsuit. If your patrons become injured while on your premises, they could file a lawsuit against your pub for negligence, which could result in costly legal fees and damages.

6. The operations section

The operations of your pub must be presented in detail in your business plan.

The first thing you should cover in this section is your staffing team, the main roles, and the overall recruitment plan to support the growth expected in your business plan. You should also outline the qualifications and experience necessary to fulfil each role, and how you intend to recruit (using job boards, referrals, or headhunters).

You should then state the operating hours of your pub - so that the reader can check the adequacy of your staffing levels - and any plans for varying opening times during peak season. Additionally, the plan should include details on how you will handle customer queries outside of normal operating hours.

The next part of this section should focus on the key assets and IP required to operate your business. If you depend on any licenses or trademarks, physical structures (equipment or property) or lease agreements, these should all go in there.

You could have a range of key assets, such as the pub itself and any associated real estate, as well as intellectual property. This could include a unique brand name, logo or even a slogan. You might also have the rights to any recipes or menu items that you offer in your pub which could be considered intellectual property.

Finally, you should include a list of suppliers that you plan to work with and a breakdown of their services and main commercial terms (price, payment terms, contract duration, etc.). Investors are always keen to know if there is a particular reason why you have chosen to work with a specific supplier (higher-quality products or past relationships for example).

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will include the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of the content of a pub business plan, let's look at some of the tools you can use to create yours.

What tool should I use to write my pub's business plan?

In this section, we will be reviewing the two main solutions for creating a pub business plan:

• Using specialized online business plan software,
• Outsourcing the plan to the business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your pub's business plan

Using an online business planning software is the most efficient and modern way to write a pub's business plan.

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

• You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
• You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
• You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
• You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
• You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Hiring a business plan writer to write your pub's business plan

Outsourcing your pub business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

Business plan writers are experienced in writing business plans and adept at creating financial forecasts without errors. Furthermore, hiring a consultant can save you time and allow you to focus on the day-to-day operations of your business.

However, hiring business plan writers is expensive as you are paying for the software used by the consultant, plus their time, and their profit margin of course.

From experience, you need to budget at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax for a complete business plan, more if you need to make changes after the initial version (which happens frequently after the initial meetings with lenders or investors).

You also need to be careful when seeking investment. Investors want their money to be used to grow the business, not spent on consulting fees. Therefore, the amount you spend on business plan writing services (and other consulting services such as legal services) needs to be negligible relative to the amount raised.

The other drawback is that you usually don't own the business plan itself: you just get the output, while the actual document is saved in the consultant's business plan software - which makes it difficult to maintain the document up to date without hiring the consultant on a retainer.

For these reasons, outsourcing the pub business plan to a business plan writer should be considered carefully, weighing both the advantages and disadvantages of hiring outside help.

Ultimately, it may be the right decision for some businesses, while others may find it beneficial to write their own business plan using online software.

Why not create your pub's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write a pub business plan is a terrible idea.

For starters, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel (or any spreadsheet) is very technical and requires both a strong grasp of accounting principles and solid skills in financial modelling.

As a result, it is unlikely anyone will trust your numbers unless - like us at The Business Plan Shop - you hold a degree in finance and accounting and have significant financial modelling experience in your past.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the 1990s and early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Also, using software makes it easy to compare actuals vs. forecasts and maintain our forecasts up to date to maintain visibility on future cash flows - as we discussed earlier in this guide - whereas this is a pain to do with a spreadsheet.

That's for the forecast, but what about the written part of my pub business plan?

This part is less error-prone, but here also software brings tremendous gains in productivity:

• Word processors don't include instructions and examples for each part of your business plan
• Word processors don't update your numbers automatically when they change in your forecast
• Word processors don't handle the formatting for you

Overall, while Word or Excel may be viable options for creating a pub business plan for some entrepreneurs, it is by far not the best or most efficient solution.

• A business plan has 2 complementary parts: a financial forecast showcasing the expected growth, profits and cash flows of the business; and a written part which provides the context needed to judge if the forecast is realistic and relevant.
• Having an up-to-date business plan is the only way to keep visibility on your pub's future cash flows.
• Using business plan software is the modern way of writing and maintaining business plans.

We hope that this practical guide gave you insights on how to write the business plan for your pub. Do not hesitate to get in touch with our team if you still have questions.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• In-depth business plan structure
• Key steps to write a business plan?
• Free business plan template

Know someone who owns or wants to start a pub? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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How to Write a Bar Business Plan + Free Template

Bar businesses are growing. Especially due to the increase in alcohol consumption and nightlife culture amongst the younger population.

But all of us know that a bar business is much more than just alcohol. It is also a good profession for people who like to socialize, talk to new people, and are lively and cheerful more often than not.

And the best part is no industry giant holds a huge chunk of the market in this business.

Sounds good, right? But before you go ahead and fulfill your long-standing dream of having a bar, you’ll need a bar business plan and we are here to help you with that, Here’s a quick overview of the industry.

Industry Overview

The bar industry stood at a massive market value of 25.09 billion dollars in the US in 2021. And is going through a phase of rapid recovery after being hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

The bar industry covers the broad spectrum of nightclubs, bars, and other such establishments that serve alcohol and snacks. The revenue for nightclubs also comes mainly from the sales of alcohol.

Increased acceptance of alcohol and an increase in disposable income of the younger population, mainly the millennials has led to the growth of the bar business.

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Things to Consider Before Writing a bar business plan

Get all the necessary licenses.

As a bar business staying on the right side of the law is more important than anything. Having all the necessary licenses and permits lets you run your business smoothly and without any chaos.

Here’s a list of licenses that you’ll need:

• Liquor License
• Food Safety Permit
• Fire Safety Certificate
• Music license

You might need more depending on the laws of your state and locality. Get all the necessary permits to avoid hassles as well as to ensure your customers and your own safety.

The location matters ( A lot )

In the case of a bar business, the location is usually the whole and soul of your business. The right location would be a preferred hangout spot for your target audience, easy to access, and not overly crowded.

The factor that the locality has your target audience or not would be a major deciding factor in your bar business’s success.

Know your target audience and their preferences

Knowing about your target audience gives your business the head start it deserves. Study everything from what your target audience prefers when it comes to food and beverages, what additional services they expect, What kind of vibe they prefer, and obviously, what is the right location to cater to them.

Have a unique theme

A major aspect of the bar industry is that it doesn’t really have any big players but several small businesses that compete with each other. And if you want to stand out amongst all the hustle and bustle it is important to have a unique theme that appeals to your target audience.

How Can a Bar Business Plan Help You?

A business plan helps you develop the right perspective toward the industry you plan on entering.

It not only helps you with market analysis and management but also acts as a guide in your business journey.

If you plan your business well, you get an edge over poorly managed entities and unaware owners who did not conduct market research before starting the business.

Specifically, when starting a bar business, a business plan helps you in making cost-effective decisions when you begin, so you don’t have to worry about haphazard finances later.

And as you know the benefits of having a business plan now, let’s discuss how to write an effective plan .

How to write an effective bar business plan?

Although you can write a business plan on your own from scratch, it is always good to get a little guidance when writing one.

Thanks to technology, there are several options available, and you can choose the one that fits the best for you.

You can either go to a business consultant, design your plan based on a predesigned template, or get a customized plan for your business through an online business plan software without going anywhere.

Chalking Out Your Business Plan

All businesses like bars, pubs, lounges, and nightclubs come under the aegis of the bar business. All of these are drinking places that primarily serve and prepare alcoholic beverages.

Moreover, it is an industry where there are no market leaders who hold a big share in the industry’s value, but small fragmented units amongst whom the industry’s value is distributed.

Now it might look like a lucrative business to enter, but a lot of bar businesses fail due to bad financial and employee management. They end up overspending and working their employees to the point of exhaustion.

You don’t have to worry about it though, the above problem has a quick and easy solution: A business plan.

Yes, you heard it right, a bar business plan can help you solve all the management and planning-related problems.

If you are planning to start a new bar business , the first thing you will need is a business plan. Use our sample Bar business plan created using upmetrics business plan software to start writing your business plan in no time.

Bar Business Plan Outline

This is the standard bar business plan outline which will cover all important sections that you should include in your business plan.

• Business Overview
• Mission Statement
• Guiding Principles
• Keys to Success
• Start-Up Summary
• Location and Facilities
• Products/Services Description
• Competitive Comparison
• Product/Service Sourcing
• Inventory Management
• Future Products/Services
• Market Size
• Industry Participants
• Market Share
• Applebee’s Pinto’s Bar and Grill 6706
• Cococabana Bar & Grill
• Flanigan’s Seafood Bar & Grill
• Market Segments
• Market Tests
• Market Needs
• Market Trends
• Market Growth
• Positioning
• SWOT Analysis
• Strategy Pyramid
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Competitive Edge
• Positioning Statement
• Pricing Strategy
• Promotion and Advertising Strategy
• Marketing Programs
• Sales Forecast
• Sales Programs
• Exit Strategy
• Organizational Structure
• Management Team Gaps
• Personnel Plan
• Important Assumptions
• Startup Expenses
• Startup Assets
• Source And Use Of Funds
• Profit & Loss Statement
• Balance Sheet
• Cash Flow Statement

Before you get started with writing your business plan, let’s understand each section in detail:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the most important document of your business plan. It is crucial to get you funded as a business as it sums up everything your business stands for.

Chances are that the investors might not even read beyond this section.

Therefore, when you write it make sure you sum up your business idea and its functions properly.

2. Business Overview

In this section, you will include an overview of all the chief needs of your business.

In a bar business plan, the chief aspects would include the location and its accessibility, the legal rules regarding alcohol followed by the area as well as the primary legal formalities involved in running a bar.

3. Products and services

This section includes all the products and services you’ll offer.

Resources for getting the products, especially in the case of a bar business the formal procedures involved in acquiring alcohol should be included.

It is also good to note down the differentiating factor between your and your competitor’s product.

4. Market analysis

Market analysis is another crucial aspect of a business plan. It comes in handy while assessing strategies and techniques that work and do not work by analyzing your competitors.

It also helps you get information about the size of the market and its growth potential.

It helps you to know your target audience and segment of the market that forms the majority of your client base.

5. Marketing strategy and implementation

Based on market analysis, next up you’ll formulate your marketing strategy.

While formulating your marketing strategy you should always keep your unique selling point and target market in mind.

Apart from that your positioning in the industry is also a critical aspect of your strategy implementation.

In addition to all of the above, advertising strategy is an aspect a bar business has to pay special attention to, as a direct advertisement of alcohol isn’t allowed on various media platforms.

6. Organizational Management

This step is also especially important in a bar business plan to avoid overworking employees, create good and respectful relations amongst the team, and have strong teamwork.

You should also include various roles and responsibilities of different people in your organization as well as ways of tracking their performance in this section.

7. Financial Plan

A financial plan is important because it prevents you from overspending and optimally distributes your cash flow amongst various segments of your business.

Apart from that in a financial plan, you can also carry out an analysis of your financial history as well as  funding options for your business.

The above-mentioned order can help you write a well-rounded plan. But most importantly, while starting a bar business it is important to keep the legalities involved in mind.

You should always watch out for the current and potential alcohol laws that would have an impact on your business and frame your business strategy accordingly.

Hence, you should frame a business plan that is flexible and dynamic and thus, can help you succeed in the bar and pub industry.

Download a sample bar business plan

Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go;  download our free bar business plan pdf  to start.

It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your bar business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.

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Bar Business Plan Summary

A bar business can be extremely successful and smooth if you go about it with a business plan.

A business plan helps you keep all the facets from legal to financial ones in mind while running a bar business, thus making the process easier and quicker.

After getting started with Upmetrics , you can copy this sample bar business plan template into your business plan, modify the required information, and download your bar business plan pdf or doc file.

It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing your business plan.

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About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Step By Step Guide To Write A Bar Business Plan

Opening a new bar requires grit and determination - as well as a fantastic bar business plan to act as your roadmap. This document can determine the future success of your new venture, so it’s essential to make it as comprehensive as possible.

But for first-time bar owners, figuring out where to start can be challenging. Our step-by-step guide to writing a business plan will help you pinpoint the finer details to consider when building a thriving bar business.

How to Write a Bar Business Plan in 9 Steps

1. bar overview.

The first step in writing a bar business plan is to establish an overview of the type of bar you want to open. You need a concept and location to shape your business model and create an executive summary for your new venture:

One of the defining aspects of your establishment is its concept and theme, which you’ll need to describe clearly in your business plan. Whether it’s a simple sports bar, speakeasy, or high-end nightclub, have a fully developed idea of what your venue will be and what purpose it will serve.

You also need to consider how to meet market needs. If you’re following trending concepts, you’ll know that roof-top bars and lounges are popular now. Or, perhaps you want your venue to be an activity-based bar that offers an art gallery, board games, or mini-golf?  

Part of your business plan also includes setting your mission statement and goals. These should outline your vision and will influence who invests in your bar. Your mission statement should be a comprehensive statement that details what sets you apart from other bars and should include your company’s values.

It’s important to link your statement to your business concept. You should consider how your values and goals are influenced by what makes your bar unique - including your overall purpose.

Next, you need to propose a location for your bar. Venues close to stores, shopping, centers, and tourist attractions, typically get good visibility and attract a lot of foot traffic. Because of the number of people moving through these areas daily, they also usually offer a decent level of security for your customers.

Another consideration for location is to avoid suburban areas where neighbors might lodge noise complaints. Should this happen, it can mean regulations stipulate earlier closing times for your venue so as not to disturb the peace.  

Finally, look for a space where there’s low competition, and your business can shine. There are plenty of strips crowded with bars and nightclubs. While these might attract a decent amount of foot traffic, you’ll need to work much harder to draw people into your place if one establishment has already made a name for itself.

For this reason, aim to secure a spot with little competition. It could mean having a unique concept bar that overshadows the competition. Or it could mean selecting a space where your type of bar doesn’t yet exist.

Ease of Accessibility

Potential customers need to be able to access your bar easily, or they will go elsewhere. They might drive, take public transport, or use a ridesharing company to travel to your venue. It’s up to you to ensure there are ways and means to get them conveniently to the front door.

Here, you should be looking for a venue where you can offer parking to your patrons. It should also be accessible to ride-hailing services and close to public transport.

2. Customer Overview

No bar establishment would be successful without its customers. As part of your bar business plan, include a profile of the type of customer you hope to attract. Consider who your target market is and how it aligns with your bar concept.

You should also outline your demographic's age, income, and interests. You’ll need this information later when developing marketing strategies for your business.  

3. Management Overview

The next step in your bar business plan is building a team structure. Your crafty bar concept requires talented people to execute it properly.

Your bartenders are the face of your establishment. Essentially, they can make or break your customer’s impression of your venue. When going through the hiring process, you’ll need to consider each individual’s personality, qualifications, experience, and skills.

Ideally, you want at least one experienced bartender who knows the ropes and can help set up operations, deal with bar management, and train the team. They will also be able to help streamline any teething issues that come up as a result of starting a new business.

From the get-go, outline your bartending teams’ possible responsibilities and the duties they’ll need to undertake. This can help set expectations ahead of advertising jobs and interviewing potential candidates.

Bar-backs don’t need as much experience as bartenders or servers as they aren’t in the customer eye as much. But they must be willing and eager to learn. They are essential to keeping everything running smoothly and work closely with the bartender as an assistant.

For this reason, they need a solid foundational knowledge of the industry, ingredients, and barware in general.

Depending on your business concept and operational model, you may or may not need to employ servers. Some high-end venues have servers to reduce the crowd around the bar and deliver drinks to the table. Additionally, you’ll need to hire servers if you offer any food.

When building out your staffing plan, you’ll need to determine where your establishment lands with that requirement. Make a note here to look for bar industry candidates with alcohol training who know how to serve alcohol safely and legally.

4. Drinks Menu Plan

Your drinks menu is your bar’s product. To be successful, it’s essential to get this offering right.

While your beverage list will undoubtedly change over time, don’t neglect to include a sample menu in your business plan. This will give potential investors an idea of what’s in store and possibly help you secure funding.

Descriptions

Your drinks menu is the selling point of your bar business and the star of the show. If you can excite and entice patrons with promises of wonderful flavors, you’ll be onto a gold mine.

So, it’s important to include product descriptions in your menu, particularly for signature drinks. Each listing should detail the ingredients of individual drinks, any garnishes they may come with, and add-ons your customers can choose from.

Beverage Names

A successful bar is only as strong as its product. So, aligning your drinks with your bar’s brand and concept is important. Get together with a mixologist to create one or several signature drinks that will be uniquely your own. Give these drinks names that play to the overall theme of your business.

Product Sourcing

Many establishments lean on particular products as their claim to fame. For example, you might want to be known as a French wine bistro, local brewery, or craft cocktail spot. Decide what you wish your unique story to be and reflect this in your plan for product sourcing.

Of course, sourcing locally is the most sustainable way to go. You can also build relationships with vendors in your community, which can help bring people into your venue.  

Industry Trends

It’s essential to do your research and stay abreast of industry trends. Note what these are in your business plan, as this will help keep customers walking through your doors.

For example, one of the most popular cocktail trends in the bar scene is smoke-infused or smoked cocktails. Some mixologists may also use smoke bubbles to infuse the cocktail with a smoky aroma. This trend has gained fame in the last few years and adds a new twist to the cocktail-drinking experience.

Small Food Menu (Small Bites)

Food and beverages go hand in hand. If you plan a small menu with, say, tapas or easy eats, you can increase your revenue. It will prevent your guests from leaving to find something to eat.

Suppose you don’t want the hassle of food storage and preparation. In that case, consider formulating a partnership with a local eatery or small food business that can deliver a menu of select freshly-made items to your establishment.

5. Licenses

It’s key to plan out your business licenses carefully. If you don’t have the right ones in place, you won’t be able to operate.

Tavern License

When putting together your bar business plan, it’s important to research whether you need a tavern license. It’s a government-issued license for restaurants, bars, or businesses with more than 50% liquor sales.  

Beer and Wine License

If you’re planning on starting a beerhouse or wine lounge, you may only need to apply for a beer and wine license. This will restrict your sales to wine and malt beverages, as you won’t be able to sell hard liquors like spirits. Whether you need to apply for this license depends on your bar's concept.

Health/Food Service License

With a small food menu, you’ll likely need to note on your restaurant and bar business plan to apply for a food service license. It’s a requirement to serve any type of food within your establishment. To obtain a food service license, you’ll need to ensure that your bar follows strict rules and regulations laid out by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration .

Music License

Music is one of the key elements of creating ambiance in a venue. But did you know that streaming music from your digital subscription with Spotify or Deezer is not actually operating within the law? This is true even if you’re playing music through a TV or radio.

The right way to go about this is to pay a Performance Rights Organization (PRO) or music service that will send royalties to the relevant artists. For the most part, this doesn’t apply to bands or performers who play live at your venue.

6. Market Research

Performing market research as part of your bar business plan is key to understanding your opportunities and how to capitalize on them.  

Industry Research

Part of your research should be to determine the market size you can potentially snag. Look at other bars already operating in the area, consider the industry as a whole, and determine what trends are driving it forward.  

Target Market

What needs will your bar solve for your target market? You can find out who they are and what they want by considering the local neighborhood and bar type.

It’s also an idea to look at census data to see how many potential customers within a certain demographic live within a reachable radius of your proposed location.

Market Share and Price Point

When doing your market analysis, consider similar bar businesses that have come before you. What do their successes and failures look like? Why did they crash and burn, or soar to new heights? Take these lessons and figure out how to apply them so your business can succeed.

Furthermore, what will your entry into the market mean for the local community? Are you creating new job opportunities? Or are you going to bring in an unruly crowd of patrons they hope to avoid? Knowing this information will help you be accepted and create connections rather than catastrophes.

Lastly, consider what your ‘competitors’ or other similar industry businesses are charging for their drinks and services. Run a competitive analysis in the area to determine your potential price point and how you can stand out.

7. Bar Marketing

Utilizing a marketing plan in the right way helps you take measured steps to get your establishment in front of potential customers. Here are the strategies to get started:

Create a Brand

The key to starting a successful business - and keeping it open - is to create a memorable brand identity. Your toolbox for promoting your brand should include your logo, colors, and ‘personality.’ Use these in a way that becomes synonymous with your bar, no matter where people interact with it.

Marketing Tools

Besides developing your brand identity, consider the channels you can market on to attract customers. At the very least, it should include your social channels, website, and media influencers.

8. Other Avenues to Increase Revenue

Besides being a bar and welcoming guests who come in with reservations or foot traffic, there are other avenues to increase your revenue.

Hosting events such as karaoke nights, wine tastings, or live music is an excellent way to attract larger crowds to your bar. You are guaranteed certain sales, can charge a cover fee, and get new people walking through the door.

If you go this route, we recommend using event management software to keep everything on track and work effortlessly with your team.

It’s no surprise that all businesses go through an ebb and flow of customer traffic. A great way to increase cash flow during slower periods is to introduce ideas like drink specials and happy hour discounts.

When you’re writing up a business plan, don’t forget to brainstorm ideas for a pre-opening promotion as a way to test the market. This can be as simple as a soft launch or as elaborate as a grand-opening celebration.

9. Financials

An important aspect of your business plan is to outline your potential start-up costs. These, along with the costs of day-to-day business operations, and financial projections, will attract or deter potential investors.

Your business plan should also highlight possible funding options like loans and investment opportunities you have available. Additionally, you’ll need to draw up a break-even analysis to determine how much revenue it will take to turn profits.  

Realizing your dream of owning the hottest bar in town starts with a great business plan. It will need to cover everything from your mission statement to your concept and drinks menu. This will help you build a sturdy management team, hire great employees, and attract people to your venue.

Want to know more about Perfect Venue for event management? Try it free to find out how it can be a fit for your new business.

Have thoughts on the article? Feel free to email us at [email protected] - we'd love to hear it!

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Here is a free business plan sample for a pub establishment.

Have you ever imagined running your own pub, a place where stories are shared and memories made, but feel overwhelmed about where to start?

In the following paragraphs, we will guide you through a comprehensive business plan tailored for a pub.

As any seasoned entrepreneur will tell you, a robust business plan is crucial to the success of your venture. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your vision, objectives, and the strategies you'll employ to thrive in the hospitality industry.

To jumpstart your journey, you can utilize our pub business plan template. Our team is also on standby to provide a free review and offer suggestions to polish your plan to perfection.

How to draft a great business plan for your pub establishment?

A good business plan for a pub must reflect the unique aspects of the hospitality and entertainment industry.

To start, it is crucial to provide a comprehensive overview of the pub market. This includes current statistics and also pinpointing emerging trends within the industry, as illustrated in our pub business plan template .

Then, you should articulate your concept compellingly. This encompasses your vision, identifying your target audience (such as locals, students, professionals, sports fans), and the distinctive character of your pub (traditional, craft beer-focused, live music venue, etc.).

The next section should delve into market analysis. This requires a thorough understanding of local competitors, market dynamics, and consumer preferences.

For a pub, particular emphasis should be placed on the atmosphere and experience you plan to provide. Detail the types of drinks, food offerings, events, and any unique experiences - like pub quizzes or themed nights - and explain how they cater to the desires and tastes of your intended clientele.

The operational plan is equally important. It should outline the location of your pub, the layout of the bar and seating areas, suppliers for beverages and food, and the operational workflow.

In a pub, it is vital to highlight the quality of beverages, food offerings, customer service, and adherence to health and safety regulations.

Then, address your marketing and sales strategy. How will you draw in and keep customers? Consider promotional tactics, customer loyalty programs, and additional services (for example, hosting private events or offering catering).

Implementing digital strategies, such as a website or social media engagement, is also crucial in the modern marketplace.

The financial framework is another fundamental component. This includes the initial investment, revenue projections, ongoing expenses, and the point at which you will break even.

In a pub, managing margins on various products and services can be challenging, so precise planning and a solid grasp of your financials are imperative. For assistance, you can refer to our financial forecast for a pub .

Compared to other business plans, a pub's plan must pay special attention to factors such as liquor licensing requirements, the potential for seasonal fluctuations in business, and strategies for creating a welcoming and engaging environment.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help the owner to define their vision and strategies but also to attract investors or secure loans.

Lenders and investors are looking for a robust market analysis, realistic financial projections, and a clear plan for the day-to-day running of a pub.

By presenting a thorough and substantiated plan, you showcase your credibility and dedication to the success of your establishment.

To achieve these goals while saving time, feel free to complete our pub business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a pub establishment

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a pub .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The pub and bar industry is a significant segment of the hospitality sector with a robust market presence.

Recent assessments value the global pub, bar, and nightclub market at over 500 billion dollars, with expectations for continued growth, driven by a rising interest in craft beers, artisanal spirits, and unique dining experiences.

In the United Kingdom alone, there are over 47,000 pubs, contributing to an annual turnover of approximately 22 billion pounds for the pub sector.

These statistics underscore the cultural significance of pubs in British society and their substantial contribution to the economy.

Emerging trends in the pub industry mirror a broader societal shift towards unique and immersive experiences.

Craft beverages, including microbrewery beers and small-batch spirits, are increasingly popular, with consumers seeking out distinctive flavors and local products. The rise of the "gastropub" has also seen pubs offering high-quality, often locally sourced food, blurring the lines between traditional pub fare and fine dining.

Environmental consciousness is affecting the industry, with a push for sustainable practices, such as reducing waste and sourcing from ethical suppliers.

Technology is playing a role too, with pubs incorporating apps for ordering and payment, enhancing customer convenience and streamlining operations.

Additionally, the demand for experience-driven outings is leading pubs to host events, live music, and themed nights to attract a diverse clientele.

These trends highlight the evolving nature of the pub industry as it adapts to the changing preferences and values of modern consumers.

Success Factors

Several factors contribute to the success of a pub in a competitive landscape.

Foremost is the quality and selection of beverages. A pub with a wide range of well-curated drinks, including exclusive brews and spirits, can create a strong reputation among enthusiasts.

Ambiance and experience are also pivotal. Pubs that offer a unique and inviting atmosphere, whether through decor, music, or events, can significantly enhance customer loyalty.

Location remains a key determinant, with pubs in high-traffic or scenic areas often enjoying greater patronage.

Exceptional service is crucial; friendly and knowledgeable staff can greatly improve the overall customer experience and encourage repeat visits.

Lastly, effective cost control, commitment to sustainability, and the ability to keep pace with industry trends, such as offering food pairings or hosting tasting events, are essential for a pub's long-term viability and success.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our pub project is designed to cater to the social and leisure needs of the local community, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a variety of beverages, including craft beers, fine wines, and artisanal spirits. Situated in a vibrant neighborhood or near cultural landmarks, our pub will provide a unique experience with live music, themed nights, and a selection of pub grub with options for various dietary preferences.

The emphasis will be on creating a convivial environment where friends and family can gather, relax, and enjoy quality drinks and food.

This pub aims to become a beloved local spot for socializing and entertainment, contributing to the cultural fabric of the area.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our pub project is centered on offering a diverse selection of high-quality beverages and a warm, inviting space for community engagement.

Our dedication to providing a memorable atmosphere, complete with entertainment and exceptional service, offers patrons a place to unwind and enjoy life's simple pleasures.

We are committed to fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit, aiming to create a destination where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Our pub aspires to be more than just a drinking establishment; it seeks to be a hub for community gatherings, celebrations, and a promoter of local culture.

Project Owner

The project owner is an individual with a passion for the hospitality industry and a deep appreciation for the role of a traditional pub in community life.

With experience in managing hospitality venues and a keen eye for emerging trends in the beverage industry, he is determined to create a pub that stands out for its commitment to quality, atmosphere, and customer satisfaction.

With a vision of creating a space that serves as a cornerstone of the community, he is resolved to offer a diverse range of drinks and events that cater to the tastes and interests of the locals.

His commitment to creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all makes him the driving force behind this project, aiming to enrich the social life of the community.

The Market Study

Market segments.

The market segments for our pub are diverse and cater to a variety of customers.

Firstly, we have the social drinkers and regular pub-goers who are looking for a comfortable and welcoming place to unwind after work or during the weekends.

Next, there are the food enthusiasts who are interested in trying unique pub grub, including gourmet and locally sourced options.

We also cater to sports fans who seek a vibrant atmosphere to watch live sports events with friends and fellow supporters.

Additionally, our pub attracts tourists and visitors looking for an authentic local experience and a taste of the region's best beers and spirits.

Lastly, we have event planners and groups looking for a venue to host social gatherings, celebrations, or corporate events.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis of our pub reveals several key factors.

Strengths include a prime location, a wide selection of beers and spirits, a cozy atmosphere, and a reputation for excellent customer service.

Weaknesses might involve the challenge of differentiating ourselves in a saturated market and the reliance on local foot traffic.

Opportunities can be found in creating unique events, such as live music nights or tasting sessions, and in leveraging social media to attract a younger demographic.

Threats include changes in licensing laws, increased competition from new entrants, and potential shifts in consumer drinking habits.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis in the pub sector indicates a competitive landscape.

Direct competitors include other local pubs, bars, and gastropubs, as well as larger chain establishments.

These competitors vie for the same customer base by offering a variety of experiences, from casual drinking spots to upscale dining.

Potential competitive advantages for our pub include a unique selection of craft beers, a strong focus on community involvement, and a calendar of engaging events.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of our competitors is crucial for carving out a niche and ensuring customer loyalty.

Competitive Advantages

Our pub's competitive advantages lie in our dedication to creating a memorable experience for every patron.

We offer an extensive range of local and international beers, a menu of hearty and high-quality pub fare, and a calendar filled with engaging events such as quiz nights and live music.

Our commitment to the community is evident through our support of local breweries and suppliers, which also ensures the freshness and sustainability of our offerings.

We pride ourselves on our friendly and knowledgeable staff, who contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere that keeps customers returning.

You can also read our articles about: - how to establish a pub establishment: a complete guide - the customer segments of a pub establishment - the competition study for a pub establishment

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the pub is designed to create a unique and welcoming atmosphere for a diverse clientele.

In the first year, we will concentrate on building a strong local following by offering a variety of craft beers, live entertainment, and themed nights to establish our brand identity.

The second year will focus on enhancing our offerings with an expanded menu of pub fare, incorporating locally sourced ingredients, and hosting community events to increase engagement.

In the third year, we plan to explore franchising opportunities and partnerships with local breweries to broaden our market reach and solidify our reputation as a community hub.

Throughout this period, we will prioritize customer experience, community involvement, and a commitment to providing a cozy and friendly pub environment.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our pub targets a broad customer segment including beer enthusiasts, local residents, and visitors looking for a casual dining and social experience.

Our value proposition is centered around a diverse selection of craft beers, quality pub grub, and a vibrant atmosphere that encourages social interaction and relaxation.

We will generate revenue through the sale of beverages, food, and hosting of special events, while our key resources will include our prime location, skilled staff, and a well-curated selection of drinks and food.

Key activities will involve managing the pub operations, curating events, and maintaining high standards of customer service.

Our costs will be primarily associated with inventory, staffing, and marketing efforts to attract and retain customers.

Find a complete and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is built on creating a strong brand presence in the local community.

We plan to engage customers through social media campaigns, loyalty programs, and partnerships with local businesses and events.

Our pub will also offer live music and themed nights to create a dynamic and enjoyable atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.

We will leverage local influencers and beer aficionados to spread the word about our unique offerings and tap into the craft beer community.

Additionally, we will focus on word-of-mouth marketing by providing exceptional service and experiences that our customers want to share.

Risk Policy

Our risk policy for the pub is focused on mitigating risks associated with the hospitality industry.

We will ensure compliance with all licensing and health and safety regulations, and implement rigorous training for staff to maintain high service standards.

Regular maintenance of the premises and equipment will be conducted to prevent any operational disruptions.

We will also manage financial risks by closely monitoring cash flow and expenses, and by diversifying our revenue streams through events and catering services.

Appropriate insurance coverage will be secured to protect against potential liabilities.

Our priority is to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our patrons while maintaining a sustainable and profitable business model.

Why Our Project is Viable

We believe in the potential of our pub to become a staple in the local community, offering a unique blend of traditional pub culture with modern twists.

With our dedication to quality, community engagement, and a dynamic atmosphere, we are poised to capture the interest of a wide audience.

We are excited to create a space where people can come together to enjoy good food, great beer, and memorable times.

We are adaptable and ready to evolve with the market to ensure the long-term success of our pub.

We look forward to pouring our passion into every aspect of the pub and to the bright future that lies ahead.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a pub establishment - the marketing strategy for a pub establishment

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a pub and our financial plan for a pub .

Initial expenses for our pub include the cost of acquiring a suitable venue, refurbishing the interior to create a welcoming atmosphere, obtaining the necessary licenses for alcohol sales, purchasing bar equipment and inventory, hiring and training staff to provide excellent customer service, and implementing marketing strategies to attract our target clientele.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough market analysis of the local demand for a social gathering place, taking into account the popularity of craft beers, cocktails, and the trend of pubs offering quality food options.

We anticipate a steady increase in patronage, starting with a strong opening and growing as our pub becomes a well-known establishment in the community.

The projected income statement outlines expected revenues from beverage and food sales, cost of goods sold (beverages, food ingredients, etc.), and operating expenses (rent, utilities, marketing, salaries, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit that is essential for assessing the long-term viability of our pub.

The projected balance sheet reflects assets specific to our business, such as bar and kitchen equipment, beverage and food inventories, and liabilities including loans and anticipated operational expenses.

It provides a snapshot of the financial condition of our pub at the end of each fiscal period.

Our projected cash flow statement details the inflows and outflows of cash, enabling us to plan for our financial needs. This is crucial for maintaining a healthy cash reserve to cover unexpected expenses and ensure smooth operations.

The projected financing plan identifies the sources of funding we intend to tap into to cover our initial costs, such as bank loans, investor capital, or personal savings.

The working capital requirement for our pub will be diligently managed to ensure we have sufficient funds to support day-to-day activities, including stocking up on beverages, managing inventory, and paying staff wages.

The break-even analysis for our pub will show the level of sales we need to achieve to cover all our costs, including the initial investment, and begin generating a profit.

It will signal the point at which our business becomes financially sustainable.

Key performance indicators we will monitor include the average revenue per customer, the inventory turnover rate to gauge the efficiency of our stock management, and the gross profit margin to measure the profitability of our beverage and food sales.

These indicators will assist us in assessing the financial performance and overall success of our pub.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a pub establishment .

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Bar Business Plan Template

Bar business plan.

If you want to start a new bar business or expand a thriving bar business, you need a business plan.

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 5,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their bar businesses.

The bar business plan template below has been designed to help you write your own business plan more quickly and easily than ever before. We hope this template will provide you with all of the information that you need to get your bar business off the ground and running as smoothly as possible.

Bar Business Plan Outline

In this article, we’ll go over how to write a business plan for a bar. Below are links to each of the key elements of a detailed business plan:

• Executive Summary
• Company Overview
• Industry Analysis
• Customer Analysis
• Competitive Analysis
• Marketing Plan
• Operations Plan
• Management Team
• Financial Plan

Next Section: Executive Summary >

Bar Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my bar business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Bar Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete a business plan for your bar. This template includes all necessary sections of the traditional business plan allowing you to quickly and easily complete your business plan for a bar. 

Where can I download a bar business plan template PDF?

You can download our bar business plan PDF template here . This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

What is a bar business plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your bar business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

The business plan is also your chance to show potential investors how you intend to make revenue in your bar or pub. This type of bar business plan can also be used to convince banks that you are capable of running a bar, and that the bank should lend you money.

Do I need a business plan to start a bar?

Yes! In fact, starting a business without a business plan is one of the biggest mistakes bar owners make. A bar business plan will help you start your bar on the right foot by laying out your objectives, how to achieve them, and what you need to do to get where you want to go.

How long will it take me to write my bar business plan?

It will take approximately 30-45 hours to write a bar business plan, but this depends on how much information you already have and how detailed you would like each section to be.

Growthink's Ultimate Bar Business Plan Template makes it easy allowing you to complete your business plan in less than 1 day! It contains the core information about the bar industry and guides you through the necessary information to create a winning plan. Our bar business plan template can help you develop your full plan quickly and successfully.

What is the difference between a business plan and an executive summary?

An executive summary (1-3 pages) is your chance to show potential investors how you plan to make money in your business. Your bar business plan should include more detailed information about every aspect of your business, including market analysis, management team, marketing strategy, financial plan, and competitive comparison of other bars (sports bars, wine bars, dive bars, and other local businesses with a bar) in your target market along with your unique selling point.

What is the difference between a business plan and a marketing plan?

A marketing plan is part of your bar business plan and should include information about how you will promote your bar to potential customers. A marketing plan will often contain specific details about your target audience, how you intend to reach out to them, and how to keep your business competitive.

How long should my bar business plan be?

An effective bar business plan should be anywhere between 10-30 pages long, depending on the complexity of your bar or pub. Make sure you can clearly explain what makes your bar unique before moving forward.

What type of information should I include in my bar business plan?

Your bar business plan should include as much detail as possible about your bar, including background information on how it came to be and your business strategy. This will help you attract investors who want to learn more about what makes your bar stand out from the competition. A local market analysis , financial statements (income statement, cash flow statement and balance sheet) , sales projections, and bar management bios are also important aspects to include in your business plan.

Do I need a lawyer to write my bar business plan?

No! When you order a bar business plan template through Growthink, you get access to our vast network of expertise that was used to create our proven template. Growthink's bar business plan template is designed to give you clear and easy-to-follow instructions about how to write a business plan for your bar. However, it’s important to be knowledgeable of the local laws and regulations as they apply to your bar business to ensure you have the proper licensing requirements.

Why do you need a business plan for a bar?

If you’re looking to start a bar or grow your existing bar you need a business plan. A business plan is an essential part of the business planning process and will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your bar in order to improve your chances of the bar’s success. Having a bar business plan will help you stay on track with your goals and the direction of your bar/pub throughout the year. Your bar business plan should be updated annually as your business grows and changes.

How much money do I need to start a bar?

To launch a bar business, it is estimated that you'll need between $100,000 and $825,000 in startup costs , depending on your bar’s location and lease or mortgage expenses. This is the amount required for you to open for business, including start-up expenditures such as business licenses (i.e., food service license, liquor license, etc.) , leasehold improvements, and bar equipment purchases.

What are the sources of funding for a bar?

Bars are usually funded through small business loans, personal savings, credit card financing, and/or angel investors. If your bar is a part of a larger restaurant or franchise, you may be able to receive funding from them as well.

How do I start a bar business?

A bar is a place where alcoholic beverages are served over the counter. It may be a pub, tavern, sports bar, or a neighborhood bar that serves mixed drinks such as a cocktail bar or wine bar with meals and entertainment. Local bars often serve alcohol such as beer and wine offerings , and craft cocktails through a bartender, though some also have staff capable of mixing classic cocktails. To get started on your bar business, first, decide what type of establishment you want to open, then follow the steps below:

• Write out a business plan for your bar business concept . This will help you stay on track with your goals and the direction of your business idea throughout the year.
• Market research is key when it comes to starting or running a successful bar/pub. Make sure you understand your target market including how your customers think, what they want, and how you can provide it for them.
• Find the right location for your bar/pub. A good central location will help build buzz about your business, provide ample foot traffic for your bar establishment , and give you a steady stream of income. 
• Make sure to assemble the best management team possible for your bar/pub before opening day arrives. This ensures that your bar/pub will run smoothly when it first opens.
• Set up all your systems before opening day, including POS systems , inventory management, job descriptions for each employee , and ensure business operations will run smoothly.
• Choose a business name for your bar/pub that will help you stand out in the area. This can be based on unique aspects of the bar/pub, such as locations and decorations.
• Choose a theme for your bar/pub that will attract customers to your establishment. The theme should be reflected in the drinks you serve, the music you play, the decor inside your bar/pub, etc.
• Grand Opening! List all of your bar/pub’s daily specials and encourage customers to get involved in your business.
• Promote your bar/pub through social media platforms , flyers, etc., to get the word out about what you have to offer. Make sure you post regularly so that customers can see how frequently new things are happening at your establishment.
• Hold special events to add excitement and draw in new customers. You can do this through live music, karaoke nights, trivia competitions, theme parties, etc.
• Keep track of your inventory and how much you’re using at all times so that you have a good idea of how much money is going out vs. coming in. You can do this with software or by utilizing an excel spreadsheet so you know how much of each item you have on hand at all times.
• Keep up with bar industry trends, especially when it comes to decor and drink selections. This will help keep your bar/pub exciting for customers while staying efficient enough that it becomes a sustainable business.

Learn More: How to Start a Bar

Is owning a bar a profitable business?

Owning a bar/pub can be very profitable for the right person with the right management skills. However, owning a bar is expensive and time-consuming. Before you start your own bar/pub, make sure to weigh all of your options carefully so that you can ensure long-term success.

How much will I make owning a bar?

Your bar/pub’s profits will vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. These include your location, bar theme, pricing strategies , marketing efforts, customer interest in the business, and more.

What type of business should a bar be?

A bar can be a limited liability company (LLC), a partnership, or a sole proprietorship.

How do I create a successful bar?

Creating a successful bar/pub comes down to understanding how your customers think, what they want and how you can provide it for them. Downloading our bar business plan template will help you get started on the right track to make your bar business dream a reality.

BAR BUSINESS PLAN OUTLINE

• Bar Business Plan Home
• 1. Executive Summary
• 2. Company Overview
• 3. Industry Analysis
• 4. Customer Analysis
• 5. Competitive Analysis
• 6. Marketing Plan
• 7. Operations Plan
• 8. Management Team
• 9. Financial Plan
• 10. Appendix
• Bar Business Plan Summary

Start Your Bar Plan Here

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

• Purchase History

How to Create a Pub Business Plan

by I.J. Karam | Dec 1, 2020 | Business Plans

Before you open a new pub, you must create a business plan. Getting funding from investors is next to impossible if your business plan is not compelling. However, that’s not the only reason why need a detailed pub business plan. Even if yours is a self-funded project, a business plan can serve as a reliable execution roadmap.

Crafting a professional pub business plan may look like a daunting task, but that’s not actually the case. Of course, you need to allot some time and conduct research to create a solid plan, but it is something that every entrepreneur can do, regardless of whether they have previously created a business plan or not. And obviously, you can count on our help, which will make things so much easier for you.

Before we get started, you might be interested to check out our  Ready-made Pub Business Plan Template  with pre-written text and automatic financials which you can easily customize and adapt to your own project, no financial expertise required .

In this post, we’ll walk you through all the key parts of a winning pub business plan , from crafting an impressive executing summary to creating a solid marketing plan.

Let’s dive right in.

How Many Sections A Professional Pub Business Plan Should Have?

While there’s no set-in-stone guideline, most experts agree that a good pub business plan mainly consists of the following sections:

Executive Summary Company Overview Customer Analysis Competitive Analysis Marketing Plan Operation Plan Management Plan Financial Plan

So what actually goes into each of these sections? Let’s find out…

Pub Business Plan Step-by-Step Breakdown

Executive Summary

Each business plan must start with a well-written executive summary. All the same, it’s best to tackle this introductory section at the end.

Why? Glad you asked.

You see, an executive summary is considered as a compelling introduction and should summarize the key ideas of the other sections. Only then you stand a real chance to convince readers that your business plan will be worth their while. Once you have penned the other sections, it becomes easier to identify the key elements of each chapter and create an engaging summary.

Here are some tips to help you write a good executive summary:

Use a strong hook : Pique readers’ interest by showing how your business is relevant

Focus on the core strengths: Maybe your pub’s ambience is your strongest selling point or perhaps your selection of liquor and your diverse menu are unique or maybe your management team is one of the most qualified. Whatever your core strengths are, don’t forget to highlight them here.

Make only those claims that you can backup with facts: Don’t make claims for which you don’t have proof or have inadequate proof. A good executive summary is a credible one.

Here’s a sample Executive Summary for a pub business plan:

Business Name – The Single’s Bar

The Single’s Bar is a unique local bar house that aims to provide a warm and friendly space where singles can meet and mingle. The Single’s Bar is unlike your typical bar in the sense that it has a one-of-its-kind service named “thee structured conversation system”. Thanks to this service, singles can easily meet other singles and get to know them through meaningful conversation.  

The bar offers a relaxed atmosphere that reduces inhibitions and inspires confidence. Research shows meeting likeminded people is not easy for singles aged between 25 and 45 years old. The Single’s Bar offers this group a great solution to the listed problem.

Conventional bars are hardly suitable for meaningful conversations since beyond the visual image of people sitting next to you, it is difficult to learn much about them and find commonalities, if any. Low lights and loud music that one finds in most bars are detrimental to having fruitful conversations.

The Single’s Bar is going to create a unique pub setting using a specific conversation structure: Singles will sit down at specific tables and talk about the highlighted topic of conversation, the aim of which is to gain insight into the other person, their perspectives and values.

Research shows the structured conversation system is highly successful as it significantly lowers uncertainty and ambiguity in the social scene. This in turn allows people to feel more comfortable which encourages them to have more meaningful conversations.

The Single’s Bar is expected to reach profitability by year three and earn substantial profits by year four.

The Single’s Bar founders, Margaret Fisher and Tony Fisher, have more than a decade’s experience in running a pub.

While there are two other bars in a mile radius, they are your traditional pubs, whereas The Single’s Bar will cater only to singles who want to meet other singles.

We need $200,000 to finance our lease costs, equipment, furniture, and renovations. Margaret and Tony Fisher will invest $50,000 in the business and the rest we plan to raise from an investor.

Company Overview

This is the section where you want to talk about your company and its finer details. To be specific, you should answer these pertinent questions here:

Who are the owners of the pub? What is your niche? What kinds of alcoholic drinks will you sell? What will be your menu? How many people will you hire to run your pub business?

Here’s a sample Company Overview

The Single’s Bars (mention your business’s location) is a unique local pub that provides a great meeting place for singles. Our bar aims to bring singles together by creating an environment allowing them to meet each other comfortably.

The Single’s Bar will sell the following:

Draft beer and in bottles:  We serve alcohol for two main reasons. First, alcohol helps reduce inhibition, which in turn makes it easier for people to meet new people and interact with them in a relaxed manner. Second, draft beer helps generate good profits. 

Cocktails and Spirits: We will also offer a wide variety of spirits including vodka, tequila, gin and other liquors. Our bartender will also prepare a panoply of cocktails to satisfy our customer’s needs and preferences.

Wines: Some customers prefer to drink wine and hence we will offer a good variety of red and white wines, perfect accompaniments for our tapas.

Coffee and Tea drinks:  A cup of well-brewed coffee or tea is often linked with a good conversation.

An assortment of Tapas:  We have added tapas in our menu because they are easy to make, taste great and customers just love them. Plus, tapas are a perfect fit for tables designed for multiple people sharing food.

Our bar’s unique value proposition is based on a conversation approach allowing singles to meet new people.  Hence, in addition to a section for general customers, our pub features another larger section specifically dedicated for singles to come and meet new people.

In the singles section, we will have 5 tables . The topic of the conversation will be marked at the center of each table. We will have different types of topics each evening, some will be related to news, sports, music, and movies, while others will be more philosophical and intellectual.

The Single’s Bar Founders, Margaret and Tony Fisher, will be involved in the bar’s day to day management and operation. They will initially hire 8 staff members to help them run the pub smoothly.

Customer Analysis

Talk about your target audience in this section. Try to be as specific as you can. Here’s a sample customer analysis:

Customer Analysis Sample: 

The Single’s Bar targets two different groups of customers: Single people and non-singles. Both of these groups are middle to upper class

The demographics of our target audiences — both singles and non-singles — are as follows:

Working Professionals: Since the underlying promise of The Single’s Bar is “meaningful conversations”, the majority of our customers are expected to be educated and working professionals who appreciate thought-provoking, meaningful conversations.

Annual income of more than $50,000: To a large extent, this is in correlation with the fact that our audience is mainly working professionals.

Age bracket is 25-45: The biggest group of singles that are looking for companionship are between 25 and 45 years old.

Competitive Analysis

In this section introduce your direct and indirect competitors. Also, talk about how your establishment stands out.

Here’s a sample competitive analysis:

The competition to The Single’s Bar comes from various sources:

Local Bars: The area where we are located has several bars. Some bars are more suited for meeting people than others, but none of them aim to bring singles together as we do.

Coffee shops: While coffee shops offer a convenient social setting where people can meet and mingle, they rarely organize any special activities with the aim to help singles meet other singles.

It is a good idea to list your main competitors in a table and cite their key strengths and weaknesses.

Our competitive advantage: Our direct competitors (local bars) and indirect ones (coffee shops) do not explicitly organize events that encourage singles to meet. Our pub has a competitive edge on this front since we have thoughtfully designed special activities that make it easier for like-minded singles to meet each other, and have meaningful conversations.

Marketing Plan

This is the section where you highlight your go to market strategy as well as show how you plan to win new customers and retain them.

Marketing & Promotion Strategy

The Single’s Bar will target people who live and work in its 10-mile radius. Our marketing and promotional strategy includes:

Direct Mail

The Single’s Bar will distribute flyers in the neighborhoods located in its vicinity. These flyers will offer not only general information about our bar’s concept but also special discounts and coupons.

Online Marketing

The Single’s Bar will come up with a sleek and user-friendly website that allows online bookings and live chat. We will also leverage the power of social media channels to spread the word about our new bar’s concept and engage with potential customers. From time to time we may run paid ad campaigns on social media to attract new customers and showcase the atmosphere in our venue.

Pre-opening Events

Before opening the pub, we are going to organize several pre-opening events that will help create buzz and attract prospective customers.

Operating Plan

In this section you should look to provide answers to these questions:

How will you run the bar? What will be the bar timings? What will be your rates? How will you source your drinks, food products and ingredients?

Preparing a detailed operating plan can help you identify issues beforehand and resolve them. For example, if you expect your bar to be jam-packed during weekends, will your staff be able to handle the high traffic on its own or will you require some additional part-time employees?

Management Plan

In this section, you need to share the names of your core team, describe their relevant work experience and past achievements. This section is usually followed by your hiring plan which can be a table summarizing the key positions you plan to hire, with their expected salaries.

Financial Plan

In the last section of your pub business plan, talk about the “finance” side of things. Specifically speaking, share information about the following:

Operating costs Direct costs Loan repayments Cash flows Expected revenues and profits Balance sheet Capital expenditures

Final Words

Now that you have seen what goes into a powerful pub business plan, it’s time to roll your sleeves and begin the business planning process. You can start by downloading our FREE business plan template to get you started. Otherwise, we also recommend you check out our Ready-Made Pub Business Plan with automatic financials . We guarantee it will save you tons of time and money.

Whatever method you choose, we wish you good luck!

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Bar Business Plan Guide + Free Example

July 6, 2023

Adam Hoeksema

Embarking on the journey of opening a bar is an exciting and sometimes difficult endeavor. However, among the necessary steps to transform your vision into reality, crafting a business plan may not be the first thing that comes to mind. It's understandable if you'd rather immerse yourself in creating the unique ambiance, concocting signature cocktails, and building an atmosphere for your customers.

Yet, in the world of potential lenders and investors, the expectations for a well-structured business plan is often a requirement. Especially if you're seeking financial support, such as an SBA loan, having a compelling business plan with accurate projections becomes an invaluable tool to showcase the potential success of your bar. Making sure your plan and financial data is within range of other bars is important as well!

In this ultimate guide, we will delve into the essential components of crafting a bar business plan that communicates your vision, impresses potential lenders & investors, and show you an example business plan (with a FREE template!).

What Should be Included in a Bar Business Plan?

• Conducting Market Research for Your Bar Business Plan
• Creating Financial Projections for Your Bar Business Plan

Example Bar Business Plan

• Bar Business Plan FAQs

With that in mind as the path forward, let’s dive in. 

A well-crafted bar business plan should convincingly demonstrate to investors and lenders the unique appeal of your establishment, why you and your crew are the perfect fit to manage the bar, and how the financial projections are carefully formulated to maximize profitability. Below, you'll find a comprehensive breakdown of our complimentary bar business plan template , tailored specifically to the thriving and ever-evolving bar industry.

Bar Business Plan Outline

I. executive summary, ii. business concept, iii. market analysis, iv. competition analysis, v. marketing strategy, vi. menu and kitchen operations, vii. service and hospitality, viii. financial plan, startup costs:, projected financial summary:, annual sales, gross profit and net profit:, key financial ratios:, income statement:, balance sheet:, cash flow statement:, ix. organizational structure, x. conclusion, how to do market research for a bar business plan.

Market research plays a vital role in developing a comprehensive bar business plan. Understanding your position in the market and validating the demand for your bar concept, location, and pricing structure are essential. You can learn more about our bar market research approach here . In this guide, we will outline effective strategies and tools to help you conduct market research for your bar.

Determining Advertising Costs for Your Bar:

To estimate the cost of advertising your bar, we recommend utilizing tools like Google Keyword Planner . This tool can assist you in identifying relevant keywords to attract customers to your bar's website. It also provides estimates of the cost per click for different keywords.

Identifying Customer Search Keywords:

To understand the keywords used by potential customers in their searches, we suggest using tools such as Google Keyword Planner and Ahrefs . By analyzing your competitors' websites, you can determine the keywords they rank for and the amount of organic traffic generated by each keyword. This information can be invaluable in optimizing your bar's search engine optimization (SEO) efforts.

Evaluating Seasonal Trends for Bars:

Google Trends can be an excellent resource to identify seasonal trends that may impact your bar concept. For instance, you can determine if certain bar themes or offerings have seasonal tendencies. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions regarding menu offerings, promotions, and marketing strategies throughout the year.

Analyzing Competitor Foot Traffic:

Gaining insights into the foot traffic of your competitors' bars is crucial for estimating potential customer volume. Conducting foot traffic reports on competitor locations can provide you with valuable data on the average number of customers they receive each month. This information will assist you in estimating potential traffic to your own bar.

Understanding your target market and the competitive landscape is essential when conducting market research for your bar business plan. By utilizing tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, and Google Trends, you can gain insights into advertising costs, customer search behavior, seasonal trends, and competitor foot traffic. This information will empower you to make informed decisions and develop a solid foundation for your bar business plan.

How to Create Financial Projections for a Bar Business Plan

It's time to transform your market research into actionable financial projections. Just like in any industry, the bar industry has its own set of factors that affect revenue, such as seating capacity, customer demand, and operational efficiency. Using a bar financial projection template is a great help in simplifying the process and increasing your confidence. Creating precise financial projections goes beyond demonstrating your bar's ability to repay loans; it's about demonstrating your path to profitability and ultimately manifestation of the financial goals you plan to achieve. Now, to create your projections, you need to incorporate the following:

• Estimate startup costs for your bar
• Forecast revenue including any food or events you plan to host
• Project food, alcohol, and labor costs
• Estimate your operating expenses like rent and utilities
• Calculate how much investor or loan capital you will need to open

While financial projections are a vital component of your bar business plan, they should not be approached in isolation. Remember to seek guidance from experienced professionals (like us at ProjectionHub!), leverage industry resources, and adapt your projections as you gather real-world insights during your bar's development and early operation stages.

By taking a thoughtful and realistic approach to financial planning, you'll not only present a compelling case to potential investors and lenders but also develop a solid foundation for your bar's success. Let these projections be a driving force that guides your decision-making and empowers you to build a thriving and memorable bar experience for your patrons.

Below you will find the text of our example restaurant business plan.  You can also download a Google Doc version of this bar business plan template here so that you can edit it and make it your own.  You can also follow along in this video walkthrough that will help you make the business plan work for your restaurant concept.

Table of Contents

Executive Summary:

• Business Description:
• Market Analysis:
• SWOT Analysis:

Marketing and Sales Strategy:

• Branding and Identity:
• Website, menu, and social media platforms:
• Marketing materials and promotional items:
• Marketing mix:

Operations Plan:

• Organizational Structure:
• Location and Facility:
• SOP (Standard Operating Procedures):
• Health and safety protocols:

Financial Projections:

• Startup Costs and Use of Funds
• Annual Sales, Gross Profit and Net Profit
• Key Financial Ratios
• Income Statement at a Glance
• Income Statement Annual Summary
• Cash Flow Statement Annual Summary
• Balance Sheet Annual Summary

Conclusion:

The name of our bar and grill is "Cheers & Grub". Cheers & Grub is a casual dining establishment that specializes in American-style cuisine with a focus on juicy burgers, delicious wings, and refreshing beers on tap. Our target market is young professionals and families in the downtown area who are looking for a casual and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy good food and drinks.

We aim to differentiate ourselves from our competitors by offering a unique and enjoyable dining experience. Our menu will feature a variety of classic American dishes, made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. Our bar will offer a wide selection of domestic and craft beers, as well as a variety of specialty cocktails. We will also host weekly events such as trivia nights and live music performances, to keep our customers engaged and entertained.

Our projected startup costs are $500,000, which includes the cost of leasehold improvements, equipment, and operating capital. Our projected first-year sales are $1.2 million, with a net profit margin of 7%. We anticipate steady growth in sales and profits over the next five years.

Cheers & Grub is a casual dining establishment that offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, combined with great food and drinks. Our menu will feature classic American dishes, such as burgers, wings, sandwiches, and salads, made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. Our bar will offer a variety of domestic and craft beers, as well as a selection of specialty cocktails.

The ambiance of our establishment will be modern and comfortable, with a touch of vintage charm. We will feature a spacious dining area, a full-service bar, and a cozy lounge area for customers to relax and enjoy live music performances. Our target market is young professionals and families in the downtown area who are looking for a casual and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy good food and drinks.

The restaurant industry has been growing steadily in recent years, with an estimated market size of $899 billion in 2020. The demand for casual dining establishments like Cheers & Grub is particularly high, as consumers seek out convenient and affordable options for their dining needs. Our target market consists of young professionals and families in the downtown area who are looking for a casual and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy good food and drinks.

In terms of competition, there are several established bar and grill establishments in the downtown area. However, we believe that we can differentiate ourselves by offering a unique and enjoyable dining experience, made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. Our bar will also offer a wide selection of domestic and craft beers, as well as a variety of specialty cocktails, to appeal to a wider range of customers.

The main competition in the downtown area consists of established bar and grill establishments, such as "The Local" and "Grill Master". The Local is known for its casual atmosphere and selection of domestic beers, while Grill Master is known for its specialty cocktails and live music performances.

We believe that we can differentiate ourselves from our competitors by offering a unique and enjoyable dining experience. Our menu will feature a variety of classic American dishes, made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, and our bar will offer a wide selection of domestic and craft beers, as well as a variety of specialty cocktails. In addition, we will host weekly events such as trivia nights and live music performances, to keep our customers engaged and entertained.

Our marketing strategy will focus on reaching our target market through a variety of channels, including online advertising, social media, and local promotions. We will also leverage our unique selling points, such as our fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, our selection of domestic and craft beers, and our weekly events, to attract and retain customers.

Online Advertising: We will utilize social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, to reach our target audience. This will include paid advertising, such as sponsored posts and ads, as well as organic content, such as pictures and videos of our menu items and events.

Social Media: We will create a strong presence on social media by regularly posting pictures, videos, and updates about our menu items, events, and promotions. This will help to engage our followers and build a loyal customer base.

Local Promotions: We will participate in local events and promotions, such as food festivals and charity events, to increase visibility and build brand awareness. We will also offer special deals and promotions, such as happy hour discounts and loyalty programs, to incentivize customers to visit Cheers & Grub.

Our menu will feature a variety of classic American dishes, made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. This includes juicy burgers, delicious wings, sandwiches, and salads. Our bar will offer a wide selection of domestic and craft beers, as well as a variety of specialty cocktails.

In terms of kitchen operations, we will have a fully-equipped kitchen. Our kitchen staff will be trained in food safety protocols, and we will have strict sanitation procedures in place to ensure the safety and quality of our food.

At Cheers & Grub, we will strive to provide exceptional service and hospitality to our customers. Our staff will be trained in customer service and will be equipped with the necessary skills to provide a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

Our dining area will feature table service, while our bar will offer full-service bar service, including the preparation of specialty cocktails. We will also have a lounge area for customers to relax and enjoy live music performances.

Our projected startup costs are $350,000, which includes the cost of leasehold improvements, equipment, and operating capital. Our projected first-year sales are $1 million, with a net profit margin of 26%. We anticipate steady growth in sales and profits over the next five years, with a focus on expanding our menu offerings and hosting more events to attract and retain customers.

All of the unique financial projections you see below were generated using ProjectionHub’s Bar financial projection template . Use PH20BP to enjoy a 20% discount on the template. 

Watch how to create financial projections for your very own bar and grill:

Cheers & Grub will be owned and operated by [Name], an experienced restaurateur with a passion for good food and drinks. [Name] will also serve as the manager, responsible for day-to-day operations, including menu development, kitchen operations, and staffing.

In terms of staffing, we will have a team of highly-skilled and trained employees, including a head chef, kitchen staff, servers, and bartenders. We will also have a human resources manager to handle employee relations and benefits.

In conclusion, Cheers & Grub is a casual dining establishment that offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, combined with great food and drinks. With a focus on fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, a wide selection of domestic and craft beers, and weekly events, we believe that we have the necessary elements to succeed in the competitive restaurant industry. Our financial projections are positive, and we are confident in our ability to achieve steady growth and profitability in the coming years.

Restaurant Business Plan FAQs

How can i conduct a thorough market analysis for my bar business plan.

To conduct a thorough market analysis, gather data on local and regional market trends, competition analysis (other bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues), target customer preferences, and potential market growth. This analysis will help you identify opportunities and position your bar effectively.

What should be included in the marketing and promotional strategies section of my bar business plan?

In the marketing and promotional strategies section, outline your plans for branding, advertising, social media presence, collaborations with local influencers or organizations, hosting events or themed nights, loyalty programs, and any other initiatives to attract and retain customers.

How should I address financial projections in my bar business plan?

Financial projections should include estimates for start-up costs, ongoing monthly expenses (rent, utilities, inventory), projected revenue based on customer traffic and average spending, cost of goods sold (beverages and food, if applicable), operating expenses, and a cash flow statement to demonstrate the viability of your bar.

What are the key components to include in a bar business plan?

A comprehensive bar business plan should include sections on executive summary, company description, market analysis, target market and customer profile, bar concept and offerings, marketing and promotional strategies, location selection, staffing and management, financial projections, and funding requirements.

About the Author

Adam is the Co-founder of ProjectionHub which helps entrepreneurs create financial projections for potential investors, lenders and internal business planning. Since 2012, over 50,000 entrepreneurs from around the world have used ProjectionHub to help create financial projections.

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Bar owners' guide to creating a business plan

Claim your free Nextdoor business page

Claim your business page to get discovered by customers and manage your recommendations

Behind every great bar is a great bartender. Behind them, is a bar business plan that sets your establishment up for a successful launch and long-term success. Whether you’re setting out to open your own spot or expanding into a new neighborhood with another location, your first step is laying out your plan. An effective bar restaurant business plan covers everything from financial goals to local business marketing strategies , all detailed in this 6-step guide.

1. Executive summary

A well-constructed bar business plan can be your roadmap, helping guide and establish your business’s operations and reputation. Not only is it an essential document if you’re raising funds, but it’s also a helpful way to organize thoughts and plans for yourself and to share them with employees.

Start every business plan with a summary to hook the reader to learn more about your company and your proposal. Think of it a little like a sales pitch for your bar, and a preview of everything you lay out inside your business plan. Be sure to include:

• Mission statement – Be both ambitious and realistic with how you position yourself and your bar with a mission that answers the question, “who are you and what do you do?” This should touch on why you’re opening this business and what you hope to accomplish in doing so. 
• Concept – Whether you picture your bar as a high-end cocktail lounge or a family-friendly brewery, share what will make your place unique. Get specific on how it will compete in the neighborhood you’re opening in, touching on the local demographic and other establishments.
• Operations – Briefly summarize how your business will function, whether you’ll be open late, serving food, or offering a retail selection. Detail the general structure of owners, managers, and employees.
• Value propositions - Highlight the value of your bar and what sets it apart from others in the area. Turning her food truck Yolos into a brick-and-mortar location, in Amarillo, TX, restaurant owner Yolanda Grazier offers an escape for the local lunch crowd: “​​We're really hoping to bring a good place where people are comfortable to come and sit down, enjoy a meal with their coworkers, [and] get a little rest and relaxation before they go back to work.”

You can also include your experience, industry trends, and more about the local market to show how your neighborhood bar will meet your goals. 

2. Location and design

Your bar’s physical location, inside and out, is important for business and your business plan. Use this section to connect your location to how it will influence your bar’s success. It should be clear to potential investors that you’ve done your research and see what will make it special based on the neighborhood it’s in. Share details on:

• Access to public transit – An accessible location near a bus or metro stop will make it easier for customers to come and go from your bar safely. 
• Neighborhood – Location may influence the type of bar you open, and vice versa. Share more about the area you’re located in and how you’re filling a need there. You can include what kind of foot traffic your location gets and demographic information of clientele, like age, income, lifestyle details, and employment information. 
• Interior design – From the back bar to your floor plan, establish plans for what your bar will look like inside. Include diagrams and renderings that will illustrate your vision. List amenities, like kitchen appliances and bathroom, plus any plans for remodeling.

3. Inventory and menu planning

Whether you’re serving local craft beer or a selection of wine from around the world, this is your opportunity to get specific about what neighbors at your bar will be saying “cheers!” with. 

Include inventory needs and menu planning details, like:

• Menu options – The more details you can provide about your upcoming specialties, the better. Share your menu, with price points and seasonal variations, as well as plating and glassware.  
• Ingredient lists – Provide the ingredients you plan to use and where you’ll source them. Share distributors for liquor, beer, and wine, and don’t forget mixers and garnishes.
• Miscellaneous items – Bar napkins, glassware, straws, cleaning supplies, and towels are necessary for most bars. Estimate weekly ordering needs and identify suppliers to ensure everything is accounted for.

Since the investors, lenders, or partners reviewing your bar business plan may not have the opportunity to test everything on your future menu, get detailed on flavor profiles, tasting notes, and descriptions to help them preview the experience of ordering at your bar. 

4. Research and marketing strategy

To build buzz for your local bar or restaurant, try a mix of traditional print advertising and online marketing. Get to know your local and target demographics to decide where and how to reach them. 

In the marketing section of your bar business plan, provide details on:

• Demographics -  Are you near a university, a hospital, or a hotel? Include neighborhood demographics and how you plan to serve locals what they’re thirsty for. With 22.9% of bar revenue coming from customers between the ages of 21 and 34 , age and income level can be factors worth highlighting. 
• Neighborhood specifics -  Tap into the interests and needs of the community you’re opening your doors in Speak directly with your bar’s new neighbors and connect with fellow businesses with a free Nextdoor business page that gives you instant access to everyone within two miles. 
• Traditional and digital marketing – Share your marketing plans, which should consider industry trends, print, and local advertising, partnering with other local businesses, and building a digital presence. Your bar should have a website, Nextdoor business page, and other social media so your information is readily available, easily searchable, and stands out as neighbors scroll for where to go this weekend.

Make marketing more effective by keeping both larger industry trends and your local demographic in mind as you plan to drive and build awareness for your bar.

5. Financial plan

The financial section of your bar business plan covers your financial history with potential for profit and your plan for obstacles that may come up. This is important for your business strategy, as well as for potential lenders, investors, or partners to see. 

Develop your bar’s financial plan with information on the following:

• Overhead costs – Price out liquor licenses, business licenses, and any associated fees with starting your bar restaurant. Note any equipment or training required to open. 
• Financial projections – Estimate your cash flow and the revenue for the first few years of your business, sharing when you expect your bar to break even.  
• Capital investment – Note your inventory, staff, and real estate costs, plus taxes and insurance costs. Assess what type of funding you need, if any, and what you’ll do with — and how you’ll pay back — any investment. Note any money that is set aside to cover unexpected fees and incidentals.

If you have unique plans to drive additional revenue, include them here in the financial section. Pa-Nash Restaurant, Bar & Lounge in Queens, NY, found new opportunities in catering and deliveries. Event buyouts or private dining options could be a secondary way for your bar to make money. 

Consider hiring experts, like an accountant, to help you with this stage of the process, especially if they have advised other local bars or restaurants in your area.

6. Daily operations

Any potential investors or partners will need to get a sense of your day-to-day operations. Even if you change specific details once your bar is open, going in with an idea can make your first weeks easier for you and your team.

Daily operations for a bar owner can include:

• Service style – Whether you’re opening a smaller bar with a single rail or a massive bar restaurant with tables and servers, explain how service will run. Detail and define POS systems, tickets, and customer comps.
• Chain of command – Delineate staff responsibilities, as well as the general chain of command for managers and operators. Everyone should know their exact role and responsibilities when they walk into work each day. 
• Company policies – Sick leave, paid time off, and general company policies can be established in this section. Consider creating a separate employee handbook for easy reference as you onboard team members. 

Even a busy bar can feel like a well-oiled machine if its daily operations are established on day one. Prepare for success and help eliminate unnecessary stress when your bar finally opens its doors. 

Open shop on Nextdoor 

An effective bar business plan will help guide you on the path toward success. As a local establishment, another key element to a bright future for your bar is in making it a neighborhood favorite. With one in three households on Nextdoor, there are potential customers right around the corner who can help. Invite neighbors in when you claim your free Nextdoor Business Page . Build buzz for your opening, share local deals, and give your neighborhood something to cheers to. 

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How to Write a Winning Restaurant and Bar Business Plan (+ Template)

Creating a business plan is essential for any business, but it can be beneficial for restaurants and bar s that want to improve their strategy or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan outlines your company’s vision and documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you will accomplish it. To create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every restaurant and bar owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Bar Business Plan Template

What is a restaurant and bar business plan.

A restaurant and bar business plan is a formal written document describing your company’s business strategy and feasibility. It documents the reasons you will succeed, your areas of competitive advantage, and information about your team members. Your business plan is a key document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Restaurant and Bar Business Plan?

A restaurant and bar business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide to your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Restaurant and Bar Business Plan

The following are the critical components of a successful restaurant and bar business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a restaurant and bar business plan is a one- to two-page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your restaurant and bar  
• Provide a summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast, among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

You may not have a long company history if you are just starting your restaurant and bar. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company before or have been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your restaurant and bar company, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen restaurant and bar business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an important component of a restaurant and bar business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the restaurant and bar industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support your company’s success)?

You should also include sources for your information, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, a restaurant and bar business’ customers may include office workers who are looking for a place to have after-work drinks or families who are looking for a kid-friendly restaurant for dinner. 

You can include information about how your customers decide to buy from you and what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or restaurant and bar services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will differ from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive differentiation or advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, or launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your restaurant and bar business via word-of-mouth or by partnering with another business.

Operations Plan

This part of your restaurant and bar business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

You also need to include your company’s business policies in the operations plan. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, your Operations Plan will outline the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. 

Examples of milestones for a restaurant and bar include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include expanding to a second location or launching a new menu.

Management Team

List your team members here, including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your establishment. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here, you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs and the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Restaurant and Bar

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : Everything you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Restaurant and Bar

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include:

• Cash Flow From Operations
• Cash Flow From Investments
• Cash Flow From Financing

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup restaurant and bar .

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Restaurant and Bar

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and grow your restaurant and bar . It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you are going to accomplish it.

A well-written restaurant and bar business plan is a must for any business owner. It’s a great tool for attracting investors and keeping the company focused.  

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Bar and Tavern Business Plan

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Foosball Hall

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

Foosball Hall is a new gaming hall and bar serving the Madison, Wisconsin community. Foosball or table soccer is an exciting table game originating from 1920’s Germany. The game involves two to four people in an exciting match that tests skill, strategy, and willingness to have fun. People, primarily male students, play foosball as an exciting alternative to pool. They are looking for skill oriented game that they can play in the social setting of a bar. While there are many different pool hall bars in Madison, there are no foosball bars even though the demand is quite apparent. Demand can be witnessed anywhere there is a foosball table. There are always lines of people waiting to play, and it is extremely rare to be able to walk up to an unused foosball table. Foosball Hall will meet the unmet demand in Madison, Wisconsin with a bar offering beer, food, beverages and plenty of foosball tables for casual play as well as tournaments.

Keys to Success Foosball Hall has identified three keys that will be critical for their success. The first is the need to design and implement strict financial controls. This is particularly important for an establishment that serves alcohol, as employee theft is one of the largest drains on this type of business. The financial controls will help minimize this risk. The second key is the behavior of all employees toward customers – that each customer is treated as if they were the most important customer of Foosball Hall. The last key to success will be the constant analysis for improvement of the business model. It will be management’s task to continually analyze the business model looking for ways that it can be adjusted to increase profitability for the business. Foosball Hall will not assume that this business model is static, rather, they believe that in order to improve it must be dynamic.

Target Market Customers Foosball Hall has identified two population target segments. The first segment is casual players of table games. This segment enjoys playing table games such as foosball or pool in a bar setting. They appreciate the opportunity to play a fun game while they consume beverages (alcoholic or not) and socialize with friends or strangers. This group is growing at the annual rate of 8% with 54,889 potential customers. The second segment of the population that will be targeted is competitive players. These people appreciate foosball for the same reasons as the casual players, however, this group is also quite competitive. They play foosball to win, either with friends or in a tournament and continually work on their skills to become better players. This segment has an annual growth rate of 7% and 12,445 potential customers.

Management Foosball Hall will be lead by Stan Spinner. Stan received his undergraduate degree in Philosophy from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. While in college, Stan managed a pool hall. This was Stan’s first experience in a retail establishment and provided him with invaluable experience in tavern operations, as well as insight into customer habits and preferences. Recognizing that one day he wanted to run his own business, but was not comfortable with his incomplete skill set, Stan enrolled in the University of Wisconsin’s MBA Entrepreneurship Program. Stan went through the two year program with the intention of opening a foosball bar upon graduation. Having this goal in his head while taking the course work proved to be quite valuable as it became a lens through which Stan studied all the new material.

Foosball Hall is a start-up gaming (foosball) bar primarily serving the students of Madison. Sales have been forecast to be approximately $200,000 for year two, increasing to approximately $290,000 in year three. Net profit will be negative in year one, rising to a positive % in years two and three.

1.1 Keys to Success

Foosball Hall has identified several business elements that must be implemented in order to succeed in this competitive market.

• Employ strict financial controls. This is especially important for a bar where, without financial controls, employ theft could bring the business to bankruptcy.
• Treat every customer as though they are the most important customer to Foosball Hall.
• Continually look for improvements in the business model as well as operating systems.

1.2 Mission

It is Foosball Hall’s mission to become a premier night spot for Madison students and locals who are interested in playing table games and drinking. Foosball Hall will accomplish this by offering abundant foosball tables, beer, and food at reasonable prices. By providing the Madison market with the opportunity to participate in this increasingly popular table game, Foosball Hall will become a Madison favorite. The business will be operated on the premise that satisfied customers are imperative to a sustainable business.

1.3 Objectives

• To become one of the premier venues in Madison that offers table games (in this case specifically foosball), beer and food.
• To grow the game of foosball in Madison, adding legitimacy to the game and increasing the number and participation levels of the tournaments.
• Reach the point of sustainable profitability by year two.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Foosball Hall, a start-up business has been formed as a Wisconsin Limited Liability Corporation (L.L.C.) with the main purpose as a table game (foosball) operation that offers soft drinks, beer, and light food.

2.1 Company Ownership

Foosball Hall is an L.L.C. registered in Wisconsin. The L.L.C. business formation structure was chosen as a personal liability shield for the owner Stan Spinner. While Stan has outside investors who possess a note securing their investment, Stan is the majority owner.

2.2 Start-up Summary

The following list details the expenses associated with the start up of this organization:

• Foosball tables: There are 10 U.S.-based manufacturers of tables. The specific vendor will be chosen soon based on a competitive bidding process. All of the manufacturers produce high quality tables and compete primarily on price. Foosball Hall is in need of 10 tables @ approximately $3,000 each. In addition to the tables, two large white boards will be needed for tournament play.
• Lighting: While the chosen space has lights for the area in general, additional lighting will need to be set up for proper table play.
• Stools, tables, counter top and chairs: These items will be purchased to provide a place for non-players to relax and socialize.
• Kitchen equipment: These are the items necessary for serving a bar menu and liquid refreshments. Needed items include: glasses, silverware, plates, microwave, convection oven, refrigerator and freezer, serving/cooking utensils, a beer tap system, a fountain dispenser for soft drinks.
• Attorney fees: The needed legal services include business formation advice and assistance, basic contract reviews, and general business advice.
• Consultants: A business consultant will be utilized for assistance in setting up various operating systems for the entity.
• Various marketing information such as brochures, stationery, etc.
• Website: The website will be developed as a form of communication regarding the activities of Foosball Hall and the game of foosball. This includes disseminating information regarding tournaments as well as advertising the fact that there is a place that offers foosball. There are numerous foosball associations that will then link Foosball Hall’s site to theirs for general game promotion.

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Foosball Foosball, or table soccer is a popular table game that looks sort of like a soccer game. The name is derived from the German word for field soccer which is fubball. The adopted name in the States is foosball or table soccer. The game itself originated in Germany during the late 1920’s and early 1930’s.

A fact that may come as a surprise to many is that foosball is played on a competitive (professional) level. There are several tours which exist with regional, national and international competitions. Within the U.S. there are two well established associations, United States Table Soccer Association and the American Table Soccer Federation. So while most participants are recreational players, there are many people who play foosball at a competitive level. The bulk of Foosball Hall customers are the recreational players.

Foosball Hall offers 10 different tables for foosball. Five days a week the tables are open to first-come/first-served play. Two days a week half of the tables will be reserved for league/tournament play. Customers are able to play foosball by paying an hourly rate. Players can either play games with people within their party or have pickup opponents. Foosball Hall serves a rotating tap of three beers as well as several bottled varieties. Other beverages include fountain soft drinks. Foosball Hall offers a light bar food menu of sandwiches and several different appetizer items.

So while foosball is the main attraction, i.e. why customers would choose Foosball Hall over another bar, the main source of revenue is from the offered food and beverages. The foosball revenue, both from individual play and from tournaments will help supplement the business, profitability depends on selling sufficient levels of food and drinks.

Offering foosball is an attractive service as many people enjoy participating in some sort of game while they are at a bar drinking and socializing. Foosball provides this entertainment, similar to pool and darts. Foosball offers the same challenge in terms of strategy and skill as pool and darts but makes the experience more fun and action oriented. So foosball can be said to be the best of both worlds, requiring skill and thought but at the same time being fun,  fast paced action.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Foosball Hall has identified two target customer segments which are particularly attractive. The first segment customers are the more casual players who are looking for some sort of activity (such as foosball, pool, darts) to occupy their time as they socialize and drink. The second group comprises the competitive foosball players. This group travels to where ever there are tables.

While the two groups share the same interest in foosball, they are distinct groups and each one will need to be reached via different methods. Foosball Hall participates within the general pool hall industry, businesses that offer beer and pool typically. The foosball parlor industry is too small and new to have its own industry classification. While foosball is a very popular table game, there are just not enough foosball dedicated halls to have its own industry. Here lies the attractiveness of the industry, most of the foosball playing occurs on college campuses, there are few outside establishments that offer a pool-like foosball hall.

4.1 Market Segmentation

Foosball Hall has identified two distinct customer segments that they will target:

Casual players This segment is typically made up of  college men who enjoy playing foosball with their colleagues. This group of individuals typically plays to pass time and have fun as opposed to playing at a competitive level in tournaments. Characteristics of the individuals that make up this group are:

• Gender 85% male.
• Ages 17- 28.
• College students- 74% of the participants are in college or recently graduated from college.
• 69% play pool but prefer foosball because it combines similar levels of skill but at a much faster, exciting pace.

Competitive players This group plays to win. Foosball is not about a fun way to pass time but a serious game at which they work hard, developing competitive skills. This group is far smaller but the individuals are active participants. There are two different manufacturer based associations for foosball and numerous different player based associations. In fact, as a testament to the level of seriousness, size and participation levels of these players, almost all states in the U.S. have their own associations. It is this group of people that will be the most active participants in the offered tournaments.

• Generally male- 89%.
• Ages 25-48.

The bulk of Foosball Hall’s customers are casual recreational players.

4.2 Target Market Segment Strategy

Foosball Hall will successfully target two distinct segments of the market. While both groups play foosball, the reasons that they play are different. Understanding this will help Foosball Hall accurately target the specific group. The first group while smaller in size is far more organized and will therefore be much easier to reach. Although seriously competitive players are growing in number, it is a select group of people that compete in foosball. With the advent of the Internet, this group has become quite organized in terms of associations, tournaments, and general awareness of each other. This being said, it is easy to reach this group through advertisements and networking with the different associations. The competitive players are always looking for new places to play, there are generally not enough tables to accommodate them. This will be the easiest group to reach. This group is talkative amongst themselves and always looking for new places and new tournaments.

The casual players will be more difficult to target. This group of people comes from a fairly large cross section of the population, people that like some sort of table game while they hang out with friends and drink beer. The obvious group to try to reach are college students. Madison was chosen in part because of its population of foosball players as well as the huge student population to draw off of. Students are the perfect segment of the population that likes to drink, play games, has disposable income, and has extra time for leisure activities. Additionally, foosball is a social game that requires two- four players. Even beyond the requirement for multiple players, when people play foosball it is typically in a social setting with socializing occurring during play. While there are some other casual players, most are or recently were college students.

4.3 Industry Analysis

There are few commercial playing areas for foosball. Most foosball tables reside in private settings, either a home, fraternity house, etc. The real competitor in terms of industry are pool halls. While the games themselves are not similar, the reason people play and the type of people that play are quite similar. As mentioned previously, people play either as a source of game competition, or they play as a way to have fun and socialize. The users are quite similar as well, however, pool tends to attract an older crowd, or at least some older people. The pool hall/ table game hall industry operates primarily by selling  beer and alcoholic beverages. Food and fountain drinks generate supplemental income. Most business occurs in the evening/ night time, as people use the occasions as a way to relax.

4.3.1 Competition and Buying Patterns

Competition is predominantly from pool halls and foosball tournaments.

Pool Halls The pool halls are the alternative places, other than typical bars, that people go to to socialize and play games to pass the time. There are many different pool halls that serve the Madison student population. They are typically grouped by some sort of theme, maybe concentrating on the lower price point beer selection, maybe on the music, sometimes on the quality of the pool and billiards tables (typically a function of the skill level of the players and the use of the tables for tournaments). The pool halls are competitors for the casual players, people that are playing as a way to socialize, have fun, and pass the time.

Foosball Tournaments Currently, the several tournaments that are held for the Madison area players take place in a community center recreation room that has six tables. There are no other public or semi-public areas that have more than a couple of tables available for play. So while the community center will still have tournaments, the facilities at Foosball Hall will be nicer and have more things to offer such as food and beer. By virtue of more and better tables, Foosball Hall will be able to attract plenty of people for the tournaments.

Indirect competition comes from other evening recreation activities, such as bars, movies, theatres, bowling alleys, etc.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

Foosball Hall will leverage the fact that they offer the finest (as well as the only) facility of numerous, nice, good condition foosball tables. This will be especially useful when competing for customers against the pool halls. Foosball has the same draw as pool, a game that is fun, social, and requires some skill, but is much more fun than pool. To be competitive at foosball, players must develop a strong skill set, however, the level of fun is accessible to all skill levels. Therefore, foosball generates more fun than pool, a distinction that is valuable to a hall that is attracting people to come play games, eat, and drink.  

The marketing effort will rely on advertisements and sponsorships to reach the desired market segments. For the casual users the venue will be advertised as a place to eat, drink, and play fun games. To reach the competitive players, Foosball Hall will have to generate visibility among the different individuals and groups that compete. This will be done with advertising as well as sponsoring tournaments, arguably the best way to get this segment introduced to Foosball Hall.

The sales strategy is formulated on the hypothesis that there are a large number of people that will try Foosball Hall once, and that a successful sales effort will be one that captures the people and turns them into repeat customers. This philosophy is grounded in the solid marketing maxim that it is more costly to attract new customers than it is to maintain current ones.

5.1 Competitive Edge

Foosball Hall will rely on their competitive edge of offering a large number of foosball tables to patrons. Pool halls are relatively popular. They offer patrons a source of self entertainment (based on skill and strategy) while they drink and socialize. Foosball takes this value one step further by offering a game that has similar skill requirements, but injects much more fun and thrill into the game. Currently, there are no other public places that offer more than one or two foosball tables for play. This competitive edge could diminish if it becomes so popular that competitors take notice and offer similar game options. However, Foosball Hall will enjoy the market leader position and will not rest on its laurels, continually looking for new ways to add value for their customers. Foosball Hall will be always looking for new ways to appeal to their target market by both secondary research, and through primary research in the form of observation of their customers.

5.2 Marketing Strategy

Foosball Hall will use two different forms of marketing communication as a way to reach the target market and raise their  awareness of Foosball Hall and their product offerings. The casual users will be reached through a series of advertisements, generally in the student newspapers. The student rags are a source of information that most students consult in determining activities and events. There are two main student papers, each with a slightly different readership demographic. The advertising space in the papers is fairly inexpensive and is targeted to reach the right audience.

In order to reach the competitive users, Foosball Hall will rely on a tournament sponsorship strategy to attract the serious players. Foosball Hall will sponsor several different tournaments, at least two days a week that will be a haven for the competitive players. The beauty (for Foosball Hall) of the competitive tournaments is that most players require practice to remain competitive or improve and the large number of tables at Foosball Hall will encourage this customer segment to use Foosball Hall as a place to train as well as compete. The tournament sponsorship will generate visibility on the local (city as well as state) foosball association websites. The visibility will take the form of activity by members of the Foosball Hall staff in association based activities. Becoming active within this association of people is valuable networking that is likely to bring many new customers to the Hall. Foosball Hall believes that this grassroots approach will be particularly effective for this unusual but tight knit group of people.

5.3 Sales Strategy

Consistent, customer-centric service is the requirement for Foosball Hall employees. Every employee will have the idea drilled into them that they cannot let a customer leave dissatisfied. Employees will be empowered to remedy most situations that come up. Problem solving will be encouraged throughout the organization. It would also be fair to say that everyone within the organization is part of the sales staff.

5.3.1 Sales Forecast

The sales forecast is a conservative projection. It has been kept conservative to ensure that, with the worst case scenario, we are able to cover our expenses. The first three months have a sales forecast that is pretty grim (relative to the standard month). This can be explained by the fact that the first few months will be slow, a function of being a start-up business, fighting to become more visible within the community, going from nothing to achieving a regular clientele. A slow but steady growth cycle with occur as the months toll. Profitability is projected to occur during the later half of the second year. As a rule of thumb for this industry, if profitability occurs before the second year than it is unlikely to be a sustainable profit, and if it does not occur by the end of the second year than the chance of it ever happening is pretty slim.

The following table and charts represent the breakdown of the sales for the first year as well as graphical representations of sales by month and year.

5.4 Milestones

Foosball Hall has identified several different milestones that will act as obtainable goals, providing the organization with benchmarks that they must reach. The following table details the different milestones, the timeline for them and the responsible party.

Web Plan Summary

The website will be used as a form of communication aimed primarily at the competitive players. The competitive players are those that use the Internet to stay in touch with the rest of the foosball community. This community, as perviously mentioned, is somewhat small but close knit. The Internet provides the perfect communication medium. The casual players are unlikely to use the website much, they will be looking for a casual place to have fun and pass the time and an Internet search is usually not used to find new places. 

The website will provide viewers with information regarding the services and products offered by Foosball Hall. In addition to providing information, the website will be linked into the different associations websites as a venue for tournament play.

6.1 Website Marketing Strategy

The website will be marketed in two ways. The first will be submissions to popular search engines such as Google. This will allow people who are searching for Madison based foosball to reach Foosball Hall’s website. The second marketing strategy is the complimentary linking of sites with the local and regional foosball associations. With complimentary links used, surfers who are already on a complimentary website such as the associations website will be guided to Foosball Hall’s site and hopefully made aware of the new venue for foosball play.

6.2 Development Requirements

The development requirements for the site will be met by a computer science student. This type of student will be used for two reasons: the typical below market rates, and the technical expertise that they offer.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

Foosball Hall is being led by Stan Spinner. Stan received his undergraduate degree in philosophy from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. It was here that Stan was first introduced to foosball. His fraternity had a table and he immediately enjoyed the game. At his fraternity there were always people lined up waiting to play.

During his undergraduate days, Stan managed a pool hall. This was valuable because it taught him general business skills, paid well, and required his time at night, preventing a conflict with his schooling. Stan recognized that his ultimate dream was to create his own business, to be his own boss. With this in mind, and recognizing his reasonable assessment that his business skill set was not totally complete, Stan decided to enroll in The University of Wisconsin’s MBA Entrepreneurship Program.

At this point Stan was aware that having a foosball hall was a viable business opportunity. While the immediacy of starting it as soon as possible to be the first to market was valuable, he recognized his deficiencies in his skill set and ultimately decided to continue school and begin his business after his degree was completed. Having this insight as to his work passion and how to execute it was invaluable to Stan as he went through all his course work with the goal of starting his own business when he graduated.

7.1 Personnel Plan

Stan will be the driving force behind Foosball Hall. His responsibilities include but not limited to: vendor relations and product procurement, marketing, sales, accounting (initially), tournament formation and management, and bar tending. In addition to Stan the following positions will need to be filled:

• Bartender: In addition to tending bar and serving drinks, this position will help with the cleaning and busing of tables as well as opening and closing activities. When it is slow the position will also assist in the limited food preparation. There will be multiple bartenders, typically having part-time shifts.
• Bartender assistant: This position will back up the bartender in any activities that are needed such as cleaning, busing tables, assistance will table rental. This position will also help out with many of the back-end activities. There will be multiple people holding this position.
• Bookkeeper: This position will be filled during month five when business begins to pick up. Initially Stan will be taking care of these functions, however once business picks up there is no value added for Stan to do these functions so he will hire someone on a part-time basis.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The following sections outline important financial information.

8.1 Important Assumptions

The following table details important Financial Assumptions.

8.2 Break-even Analysis

The Break-even Analysis indicates that monthly revenue of approximately $12,000 will be needed to reach the break-even point.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

The following table and charts show the Projected Profit and Loss.

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

The following chart and table display Projected Cash Flow.

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The following table presents the Projected Balance Sheet.

8.6 Business Ratios

Foosball Hall’s Business Ratios. SIC industry class: Pool parlor – 7999.0403.

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10 steps to a great business plan for your pub

10 Steps To Producing A Great Business Plan For Your Pub

Starting a new business venture is an exciting journey filled with opportunities and challenges. Amid the excitement, one tool often stands as a compass, guiding business owners through the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship - the business plan.

A business plan acts as a comprehensive roadmap for your enterprise and lays the path you need to follow to achieve your business goals. The foundation laid during the initial stages, through research and planning, sets the tone for maximising the potential of your new venture.

When partnering with Greene King Pub Partners, a business plan will guide any discussions with your appointed Business Development Manager (BDM). We will provide you with a comprehensive template to help you lay out your key considerations and also supply a handy guide to help you complete your plan.

In this post we'll explore 10 key components that should find their place in your business plan, ensuring it becomes a blueprint for success.

1. Self Reflection

Begin by introspecting your skills, qualifications and experiences and ask yourself, 'what can I bring to the pub business?' Think about your strengths and weaknesses. Where do you shine? What are the areas you feel need more attention? Perhaps you possess excellent catering or front of house skills. But maybe you lack DIY or maintenance skills? Seek input from trusted friends who can help you with these insights. If you plan to appoint someone to run the pub for you, conduct a similar assessment with them.

2. Market Analysis

It’s crucial to examine the market around your pub so that you can better understand the demographics of your potential customers. What is the average age of your customer? What do you think they want from their local? Are they likely to prioritise food or beer?

We will provide a full demographics report during the business plan process to help you better understand who you are going to be marketing to.

And, if you are looking to expand the customer base, research the competition and see what they offer and then identify any gaps in the market that your new business can exploit.

3. SWOT Analysis - Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats

This is a pivotal part of your business plan and key to understanding your pub's position in the marketplace. Identify strengths for your pub, such as being in a central location with high levels of foot traffic or a large beer garden. Weaknesses might include limited inside space or outdated toilet facilities.

Explore possible opportunities for your pub, such as a new housing estate being built in the area or a popular competitor business closing. Similarly, look at any threats your fledgling business might face. Identifying these factors will enable you to determine the future course of action for your business.

4. Competitor Analysis

Unless your pub is in a remote, inaccessible part of the UK, it is unlikely that your business will operate in isolation. What's more probable is that there will be competitors vying for the attention and loyalty of your customer base. By identifying your competitors and analysing their offering, you can determine how you will compete and differentiate your pub business by creating a unique selling point to stand out in the market.

5. Strategic Plan

Having studied your competitors and conducted a SWOT analysis, you can now outline what you propose for your new pub business. This should include a sample menu, product ranges and details of any additional features or facilities you will be introducing (such as function rooms, events, a games room etc). It is vitally important here to highlight the differences between the existing offering and what you intend to provide. If you have an outdoor space or garden, don't forget to include plans for that too! Your BDM will work closely with you to develop a robust plan for your pub and help you create an exciting proposal.

6. Customer Service

Can the current service levels be improved? Emphasise the improvements you intend to make to customer service in your business plan. Assess the current staffing levels and knowledge of team members and propose training to plug any gaps in knowledge and help improve the overall customer experience.

7. Investment Opportunities

Explore potential investment opportunities for the pub. How can it be improved? Consider updates to the existing facilities such as converting rooms to provide Bed & Breakfast or creating a function room to hire. Does the car park need re-surfacing? Has the pub garden seen better days? Discuss ideas with your BDM to explore any refurbishment opportunities that may be possible before you open.

8. Delivering The Offering

Consider how you will deliver the proposed offering and outline any support needed to ensure it is successful. Marketing is essential to the success of your business - it's all well and good creating a fantastic venue but people need to know about it. Consider leveraging social media platforms to enhance the pub's visibility and ensure your business plan shows how your experience could bring these changes to reality. It’s always worth the time and effort to engage with the local community to help spread the word – invite local societies/clubs to visit with a view to them holding their forthcoming meetings in your venue.

9. Meet The Team

Include details of key individuals involved in running the business, such as the chef, head bar tender and any professional advisors you are intending to work with. Highlight their experience and ways in which you will support them in their role. If you're yet to earmark someone for the pivotal positions in your business, explain how you intend to recruit them.

10. Financial Forecasts

You will need to create financial forecasts for the business, including cash flow analysis, profit and loss statements, break even analysis and forward projections. A sensitivity analysis to project what would happen if costs increased, wages increased or sales decreased. A template will be provided to assist with this and your BDM will be able to provide support in providing you with specific figures for your pub.

While crafting a detailed business plan may seem like a lot of work before you even sign a contract, the meticulous research, preparation and strategic thinking will greatly increase the chances of long-term success and business growth for your new pub.

Are You Interested In Running A Pub With Us?

Check out our webinars for more information or alternatively get in touch today on 01284 843200 or email [email protected]  

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PUB BUSINESS PLAN: 10 Steps to a Great Business Plan For Your Pub

• by Folakemi Adegbaju
• August 14, 2023
• No comments
• 10 minute read

Table of Contents Hide

#1. plan your business, #2. financial plan, #3. define your brand, #4. location, #5. open a business bank account & credit card, #6. form a legal entity, #7. get business insurance, #8. obtain necessary permits and licenses, the main objectives of a pub business plan, #1. executive summary, #2. company overview, #3. market analysis, #4. customer analysis, #5. describe your product or service, #6. describing your organization and management, #7. explain your funding request, #8. technology and taking payments,  #9. develop a marketing and sales strategy, #10. appendix, final thought, is it profitable to open a pub, is opening a bar a good idea, is it hard to run a bar.

It’s an exciting initial step to decide to create a pub. When launching a new business, such as a pub, it is critical to have a good pub business plan. Business plans follow a tried and true formula, but if you’re opening a pub, you need to take a more specialized approach. Have you always dreamt about how to operate your own pub but aren’t sure how to begin? You’ve undoubtedly considered your idea and name, but perhaps you’re unclear about the ins and outs, such as how to secure funds and licenses. You are going to get answers to them in this article because we are going to talk about how to start a pub business, the 10 steps to take when writing a pub business plan, the template and the example.

Let’s kick off!

How to Start a Pub Business

The following are ways by which you can start a pub business:

Make a plan for your pub’s business, entrepreneurial success requires a very good plan.

This includes researching the competition and the surrounding area. You’ll explain how you plan to make money with your pub in the pub business plan template. Create a blueprint for your company’s structure and vision. It will also assist you in mapping out the details of your company and uncovering some unknowns.

If necessary, seek finance for your pub business. If you don’t have enough money in your savings account to cover everything, you’ll need to look for outside help. This could be in the form of fundraising or a commercial loan . Show your pub business plan to potential investors or lenders to acquire the funds you require.

Your business brand is both what it stands for and how the general public perceives it. A strong brand will set your pub business apart from the competition. Advertise your new pub business thoroughly. You’ll need to work hard to market your new pub once it’s open. This could include handing out fliers or airing commercials on the radio and television. Cross-promotions with non-competing businesses could also be beneficial. You must spread the word about your company to customers.

A pub location can be rented or purchased. One of the most crucial elements to consider when opening a pub is the location. You’ll need to select a site with a lot of foot traffic and close proximity to neighbourhoods with lively nightlife .

Personal asset protection requires the use of distinct business banking and credit accounts.

Your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk when your personal and business accounts are intermingled. This is known as piercing your business veil in business law.

Learning how to build business credit can also help you secure credit cards and other financing in your company’s name (rather than your own), lower interest rates, and increase credit lines.

Create a legal business corporation to protect yourself from personal liability in the event that one of your customers files a lawsuit against you. To form a corporation or a limited liability business, you must file articles of incorporation or articles of organization with your state.

 Forming a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you if your pub is been sued.

Get your pub covered with insurance. Failure to get required permissions and licenses can result in significant fines or possibly the closure of your pub business.

There are several insurance policies designed for various sorts of organizations with various risks. If you’re not sure what kinds of dangers your company might face, start with General Liability Insurance. This is the most frequent type of coverage required by small businesses, so it’s a perfect way to start.

For your pub, obtain the essential liquor license and health department permission. You’ll need the required approvals from your local government before you can serve any alcohol.

Insurance, like licenses and permits, is required for your business to operate safely and legally. In the case of a covered loss, business insurance protects your pub business’s financial well-being.

What is a Pub Business Plan?

Businesses in the hospitality industry, whether it’s country pubs or city-centre wine bars, are often looking for fresh marketing methods to help them grow. Following the enormous challenges of recent years, it’s more crucial than ever to develop new ways to boost foot traffic and ensure repeat business in this highly competitive industry.

A pub business plan is a guide to the founders and key employees focused on their abilities and knowledge. An action plan laying out how you’ll turn your pub from a concept to a thriving business.

Imagine the people who will be reading your pub business plan to begin. It will almost certainly be potential business partners, investors, and lenders. These parties are looking for proof that a company is worth their time and money, and it is your business plan’s responsibility to provide that proof. It will be reviewed by you in the future when you assess your pub’s current success and plan your next actions. You’re ready to begin writing with all of these people’s interests in mind.

You’ve got the drive and the vision; now it’s time to create a business plan.

The following are the objectives of writing a pub business plan:

1. To Find Investors

To get all of the funds you’ll need to open your pub, you’ll have to persuade lenders to fund a portion of it. This is no simple feat in an uncertain economic context.

They use your pub business plan to demonstrate the pub’s viability as well as your own credibility as an entrepreneur. Investors will evaluate whether their own beliefs and objectives coincide with those of your enterprise after reading the business plan for a bar, and therefore whether they’re willing to supply financial support.

#2. To See the Big Picture of Your Business

A pub business plan is written for more than just potential investors. It is, above all, addressed to you. By setting up the strategy, you’re obligated to fully comprehend each part of your project in as realistic a manner as possible.

10 Steps to a Great Pub Business Plan

Spend as much time as possible reading through some examples of pub business plan templates before you begin drafting your business plan for your pub. Not only will this give you a solid notion of what you’re going for, but it will also show you the various sections and terminology that different entrepreneurs use to write about themselves and their future ambitions.

The executive summary summarizes your pub business plan’s major ideas. Before determining whether or not to read more, investors and lenders look at the first page of the executive summary. Therefore, write out the most important elements right away. Simply and briefly describe your pub. The executive summary focuses on the value proposition, also known as the unique selling point, which is an extended slogan directed at customers, investors, and employees. We advise you to consult a professional to help you with giving your pub business plan a fantastic executive summary that will attract your investor or lender.

The firm description provides a more detailed insight into your pub. It gives a broader picture of everything your reader needs to know, including your concept, location, and target market. After reading, you should know who, what, and where you are, and also why you’re doing it. Emphasize the special skills you mentioned in the executive summary. If you have a signature drink or an established business model, mention it here.

Within your pub business plan, your company overview contains three elements:

• Mission statement

These elements provide insight into the overall perspective of your business plan, allowing investors to understand the purpose of your organization and thus the objectives.

The next stage is to define your ideal potential customer as well as the size of your market, both present and potential. The market analysis examines your market and how your pub business can compete. The market refers to the specific niche into which your pub fits, rather than the entire pub.

Put your knowledge of the economy, industry, target market, and associated trends and developments into this section. This is also where you would add competition research, such as success factors and how you will position and value your product in comparison to competitors.

You’ll demonstrate competence and build confidence by being specific. It can be a red flag for investors if your target market is too large.

Because many purchasing decisions are based on emotion and identity, it’s critical to name drinks and write descriptions that cater to your target customer’s preferences. Take the time to think about how the language and topics you employ will affect them.

You need to make some findings about your targeted customer. Here are some questions you can use during your research:

• What factors influence your target customers’ purchasing decisions? 
• Do people shop for the best price, the best quality, the best service, or something else?
• How will your bar cater to the distinct demands of those customers?

Detail your offerings and any market differentiators, such as trademarks or patents, in the product or service section. Explain how your product or service benefits your customers, especially in comparison to competitors’ offerings. What you have on your menu attracts customers (and investors). From chips, beers, and drinks to mixers, garnishes, and other add-ons, list everything on your menu with descriptions and photographs.

 Because many buying choices are driven by emotion and identity, it’s critical to name drinks and write descriptions that cater to your target audience’s preferences. Take the time to think about how the language and topics you employ will affect them. 

Describe your legal form (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation) and introduce yourself and your management team or advisors, if applicable, in this section. Your business is only as good as the people that manage it. Describe your team members and explain why they are qualified to either convert your business ideas into success or help it expand. This section of your pub business plan should highlight your team’s skills and qualifications throughout.

This section is where you’ll outline your financial requirements and the anticipated use of the money over the next five years if you’re using your pub business plan to ask for assistance. You should outline your financial request plan in the financial request area. Are you self-funding or seeking finance for your pub? Are you considering a small business loan, and if so, for how long?

The financial plan should also include the amount of revenue required to break even. Create a financial analysis that covers your profit and loss account, cash flow requirements, and balance sheet management.

Another aspect of your pub business plan to think about is the technology you’ll need to keep things running properly. You’ll almost certainly require software to manage your inventory and workforce, as well as simple hardware to accept consumer transactions.

Your pub marketing strategy or plan can spell the difference between selling so much that your pub business expands rapidly or obtaining no business at all. It is also a section that lays out your entire approach for attracting, maintaining, and acquiring customers.

Promotion of your pub business will be your primary focus in the bar industry. Customers will be enticed to spend money with you through the promotions you do. Customer retention, or how you persuade customers to return, is another crucial aspect of marketing. Growth strategies are a critical part of your pub business plan.

Here are some other marketing strategies you can use:

• Pricing Strategy

Without an awareness of how your pricing affects your profitability, it’s nearly impossible to open and manage a successful pub. When tracking how much you’re making back from what you’re buying in, the outflow cost is crucial.

• Marketing programs

Regulars will need incentives to return once your bar is open, and new customers will need to be enticed to try it out. You can do this through a variety of marketing channels, including email, social media, public relations, and sponsored advertisements. Many pubs provide things like guest bartending nights, happy hours, live music, and karaoke to keep business flowing.

• Social Media Strategy

Whether you like it or not, social media is a highly effective marketing tool for the pub business. Every pub should have a presence on social media. Social media allows you to engage directly with customers and establish your pub’s brand while also assisting them in finding basic information such as your opening hours and location.

Lastly, put together a well-organized appendix with whatever readers will need to enhance the details in your pub business plan.

The appendix is being used to give further information and any other important or required documents.

If you’re looking to develop a more modern business plan, we recommend you try Business Yield Consult. We are here as guidance to help you create the perfect pub business plan. On the other hand, you can also purchase an already-made pub business plan template at a cost-effective rate to save yourself the stress of writing one from scratch.

Yes, it is possible to make a profit by opening a bar. A successful bar’s average net profit is higher than the stock market’s average annual return.

Being the owner and operator of a pub may be quite gratifying. Not only will you be able to give your customers a location to gather and enjoy their time, but you’ll also be able to make a lot of money. In the liquor industry, there is a significant markup.

The issue is that it isn’t that straightforward. It’s difficult to open a bar, and it’s even more difficult to run a successful bar. A frightening number of people believe that just because a bar is properly stocked and the doors are open, it will produce tremendous profits if you can scrape together the cash to go in.

Being the owner and operator of a pub may be quite gratifying. Not only will you be able to give your customers a location to gather and enjoy their time, but you'll also be able to make a lot of money. In the liquor industry, there is a significant markup.

The issue is that it isn't that straightforward. It's difficult to open a bar, and it's even more difficult to run a successful bar. A frightening number of people believe that just because a bar is properly stocked and the doors are open, it will produce tremendous profits if you can scrape together the cash to go in.

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• NIGHTCLUB BUSINESS PLAN: The Ultimate Guide on How To Write a Nightclub Business Plan
• Opening A Bar: A Comprehensive Guide

Folakemi Adegbaju

She is a passionate copywriter and a good listener

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