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How to Write a Bar Business Plan

Start building towards your bar ownership dreams with this guide to writing a bar business plan, plus a template that's ready to customize.

Tyler Martinez Author

Tyler Martinez

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Bar Business Plan Template

Use this free bar business plan template to easily create a great business plan that organizes your vision and helps you start, grow, or raise funding for your bar.

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Many people dream of owning a bar: having their friends come by every week (or more), and getting to know their regulars. 

Bars, pubs, taverns, tap houses, clubs – no matter what type of drinking establishment you're dreaming of, the defining feature is the sale of wine, beer, and spirits for consumption on the restaurant’s premises, which comes with a set of responsibilities for the business owner and employees.

But before you can dive into the fun (and often hectic) day-to-day of being a bar operator, you’ve got a few steps to consider first. One of the best ways to keep track of the never-ending list of tasks involved with opening a new bar is to write a detailed bar business plan.

A bar business plan does more than help you to transform your bar from a concept into your city’s hottest venue, or your neighborhood’s most beloved dive. Outlining your concept and name, your target market and how you’ll reach them, doing the research about permits and licenses in your city and state, planning a menu, preparing a budget, securing funding, and most of the other legwork required are all organized through the process of writing a business plan.

How to Write a Bar Business Plan (Description, Examples, Proposals)

Even for the most creative bar owners, business plans tend to be pretty formulaic, so this bar business plan template is a helpful tool for imagining and planning your bar, pub, tavern, or club. Download a customizable version of this business plan template and read on to learn more about how to make it work for your bar.

Why You Need a Business Plan for your Bar

To a layperson, starting or owning a bar might seem like a job for sitcom characters, but bars, pubs, taverns, and clubs are the heart of nightlife and are an important part of the culture and society of any city or town. Bars, pubs, and taverns have a traditional place in societies as a meeting ground and place of rest.

Like it or not, when you open a bar, you enter that centuries-old tradition of bar culture which comes with plenty of responsibilities and expectations. A business plan lets you define the kind of space that your bar will provide, the ambiance, and what patrons you target — and it will help keep you on track while you tackle one section at a time.

Elements of a Bar Business Plan

  • Bar Business Plan Executive Summary
  • Bar Financial Plan
  • Bar Operations Plan
  • Bar Industry Market Analysis
  • Bar Management Team

Executive Summary

Business plans start with a concise summary of the concept for your bar and an introduction to the key elements of your business plan . This includes an overview of the budget, your business’s goals and core values, and a clear, actionable vision for the products and services that define your brand. 

Consider the audience you are writing for, including potential investors, management staff, and other owners, and imagine how you can grab their attention and pique their interest in your plan. From this introduction, your audience should have a good idea of your concept for a bar and what market space you’re entering. 

Company Overview

The company overview is a companion to the executive summary that is more practical than conceptual and attention-grabbing – it works as a glossary for the rest of your business plan, defining your bar’s products, information about ownership, company structure, and your vision for the customer experience.

You might want to include information about labor and hiring practices, the location of your bar, and the bar’s capacity for service – how many people can your venue hold if it is primarily a social hub, a music venue, or a sports bar, or something in between.

This is also your opportunity to communicate the aesthetic aspects of your plan to stakeholders. The bar’s name, logo, color scheme, vibe, and the general type of ambiance and venue you want to create can all be included in a company overview.

Team and Management

Bartenders occupy a unique space in the foodservice industry and the bartending position is often considered a prestigious role among service professionals. Bartenders have specialized knowledge about wine, beer, liquor, and spirits and use their creative abilities to suggest pairings and craft cocktails.

Bartenders are the primary labor force of a bar, but table servers, barbacks, kitchen staff, management, and even technical producers for lighting and audio all play a part in creating the ambiance of bar and club spaces.

Provide investors with information about how you plan to structure your bar’s business. What will the management staff be responsible for and what is their position in the chain of command? Do you want to offer patrons table service?  What about a regular DJ or lighting tech? 

Don’t forget to include information about who will be creating marketing and publicity for the bar or events – will you market your business, hire a marketing professional or firm, or hire a manager that can market your business in addition to their other duties?

Also consider including information about what kind of jobs you plan to create, whether they are full-time or part-time, how you will hire or train workers with the right skill set, and if you plan to provide them with any benefits or incentives. 

Sample Menu

A sample menu for a bar might seem idiosyncratic – wine, beer, and cocktails are on the menu – but a sample can be useful for defining your brand and giving interested stakeholders a concrete vision of the products and services your bar will offer.

For instance, if you build a food menu of any sort, that gives investors information about the quality of the products you plan to offer and the types of clients you will attract with what you plan to sell. A sample cocktail menu that features top-shelf liquor or a list of local beer and wine offerings will communicate what markets supply chains you plan to enter and rely on.

A sample menu forces you to start thinking about how you will produce and deliver those items to customers – consider where you will store valuable bottles of wine and spirits, the logistics of serving draft beer, the focus on drinks or food, down to the small details like glassware and stemware.

Market Analysis

Market for a bar is unique – bars can be in competition with the local restaurant industry or in competition on the local bar scene, or they can occupy some space between the two. A good example of this phenomenon is the sports bar.

The sports bar is a restaurant in its own right but attracts clients seeking a specific experience and products – beer, cheap spirits, and a TV in line of sight at all times sound like an ideal sports bar experience. That business model puts that space in competition with other local bars and restaurants that have TVs, even if they don’t prioritize the sports bar culture.

However, a sports bar and a craft cocktail bar could be successful as neighbors because they attract clients seeking a different type of experience. It’s important to consider what openings there are in your local market for bars and what share of the clients seeking the experience you provide you could realistically attract. 

These routes to success, the opening in the market, and your plans to attract the customers that occupy that opening are considerations that can help your business plan to impress potential investors and make them feel secure investing in your concept.

Marketing and Publicity

Marketing tactics for bars, pubs, taverns, and clubs are as unique as configuring a market analysis – how your market will be unique to the kind of space you’re creating for customers. 

Word-of-mouth marketing is invaluable for bars. If you provide a customer with the experience they’re seeking, they’re likely to bring customers along with them to your business. Additionally, the opportunities you have to market your bar will coincide with the venue you create.

If your bar is primarily a social venue, you might market a happy hour, whereas a music-focused bar has opportunities to market upcoming shows, relying on the popularity of the performers you book.

Creating a plan for your marketing strategy and listing potential avenues of marketing and publicity for your bar will let potential investors see that you are already thinking about the share of customers your business will attract and serve and elucidate your plan to succeed in the market you enter.

Restaurant Marketing Plan

Create a marketing plan that'll drive repeat business with this customizable marketing playbook template and interactive calendar.

Branded Graphics

One of the most exciting aspects of building a cohesive brand across your business plan is creating branded graphics that convey your brand’s concept to both potential investors and customers. Think about how you might represent the ethos of your bar and the experiences that you plan to offer your customers through graphics and the design of your business plan’s documents.

Business Operations

Business plans include information about customer service, the point of sale , sales and inventory tracking, accounting, and the supply chain of the products on your menu. Consider the role you plan to play in the business – do you plan to be an owner/operator and manage the place yourself or hire bar managers to craft drink recipes and delegate staff?

Bars can offer a range of products and services and it’s crucial to work out the details of management, entertainment, and production as you complete your business plan. You might also include expectations for how you plan your bartenders, servers, and managers to factor into your customers’ experience. 

How bars treat customers is an important consideration unique to selling liquor because who you can serve is regulated at the state and federal levels. Your plan for business operations should acquire include the licenses and permits required to serve alcohol in your state and how you will ensure that your staff follows guidelines for serving alcohol.

Small bar business models might see a staff of two bartenders standing in for every role from cash management to line-cook while larger spaces might have staff dedicated service and support staff. Balancing expectations for employees, management, customers, and planning to deliver consistent products and services is complex and doing that work in a business plan communicates that you’re poised to launch a successful bar.

Bar and Lounge POS Comparison Tool

A free, customizable Bar and Lounge POS Comparison Tool to research and compare point of sale systems in one Excel spreadsheet or editable PDF.

Financing and Loans

If you are seeking to secure funding, have already secured partial funding, or have a plan to fund your bar, pub, tavern, or club, it is crucial to include that information in your business plan.

Whether you're going the route of an SBA loan, a microloan, a line of credit, or any of the other many financing options available to those looking to fund a hospitality business, this is the section where you'll share with your audience how you'll be footing the bill of your bar dreams. 

And if you're still figuring that out — and using this business plan as part of your investor pitch — outline how you'll be using the funding, and provide detailed financial plans about the projections of profit and expenses of your business.  

Sales Forecasts and Operating Expenses

The operating expenses for a bar include the costs of labor, insurance, inventory, equipment, rent, utilities — the list goes on. But there are also expenses for permits and licenses that are unique to businesses that plan to serve alcohol , so be sure to budget for state licensing and bartending permits so that you can serve alcohol while adhering to the proper protocols.

One common analysis to include in a business plan is a “ break-even analysis ” which compares how much sales are required to break even with the cost of expenses each month. Investors will be interested in the potential for profit and loss before they contribute to your business, but producing a P&L statement for a bar that isn’t open yet will require some educated projections.

Finally, a cash flow analysis details how you will spend money on labor, supplies, and operations which will show investors that the bar, pub, tavern, or club can support itself without additional investment. Consider how the cost of wine, beer, and liquor, local taxes, employees’ salaries, and the costs of maintaining the bar’s furniture, equipment, and tools balance at the end of each fiscal quarter. 

How to Present Your Bar’s Business Plan

There are a few ways to prepare to communicate with investors about your business plan and get them interested. As you write and edit your plan, you’ll have become the world’s only expert on your bar. Remember that the way you talk about your business should be tailored to the situation you find yourself in. 

First, send your business plan to investors and banks far and wide – put your concept and plan in the hands and minds of as many people as possible. You can’t hear no (or yes!) unless you ask.

Perhaps you’re at a networking event for local small restaurant owners and financiers. You might want to have a 30-second elevator pitch prepared so that you can communicate everything you need to about your plan quickly. Be sure to include something exciting or make an opportunity for questions to keep people talking.

Once you secure a meeting with a potential investor or partner, you’ll want a more detailed presentation that presents all the key elements of your business plan – for a bar, that will likely include the market niche, customer experience, type of venue, and financial concerns.

It’s good to anticipate potential questions and prepare answers for questions you encounter for the first time. When networking, be honest and genuine, even if you don’t have a ready answer for each question that comes your way – investors will be interested in your charisma and savvy just as much as your ability to build a detailed plan.

Related Bar Business Resources

  • How to Open a Bar
  • Bar POS System
  • Bar POS Comparison Tool
  • Best Bar Websites
  • Cost to Open a Bar
  • Bar Marketing Ideas
  • Bar Design Ideas
  • Bar Branding
  • Bar Ideas and Concepts
  • Bar Equipment List
  • Bar Licenses and Permits
  • Bar Floor Plans
  • Best Bar POS Systems
  • Bar Supplies

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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only, and publication does not constitute an endorsement. Toast does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, graphics, links, or other items contained within this content. Toast does not guarantee you will achieve any specific results if you follow any advice herein. It may be advisable for you to consult with a professional such as a lawyer, accountant, or business advisor for advice specific to your situation.

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How To Open A Bar

1. Decide what type of bar you want to open

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Create your concept

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

2. Identify your business structure

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

3. Create a business plan

Identify your customers

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Analyze your competition

Choose your strategy for overcoming competition, 4. find the ultimate location.

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Decide on the size of your establishment

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

5. Sort out the paperwork

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Secure permission from the local government agencies.

Visit the building and safety department., brainstorm and register your bar’s name..

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Can be done online via IRS (Internal Revenue Service) website. You’ll need this number for most of your licenses and permits, and all tax documents.

Visit your local Alcoholic Beverage Control

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Obtain food-service license

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Complete a Special Occupational Tax with TTB

You will have to register with TTB at the federal level before you begin selling any alcohol. You can get all the information you need on their website.

Start your record book

Settle things with the fire department.

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

5. Design your bar

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Plan your menu

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Get a POS system

Choose the right equipment.

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

6. Stock up your bar

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Build up the relationships with suppliers

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

7. Draft your team

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Set up salaries

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Find and hire the right candidates

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

8. Open your bar

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

9. Promote your bar

You know your place is awesome. Your mom thinks it’s awesome. Now let’s make the whole neighborhood think so as well!

Spread the news via social media

If your bar does not have a Facebook page these days, it is basically non-existent. Make sure you have created a custom page header that fits in the style of your bar; have some cool, high-resolution pictures of the menu and interiors in the albums; opening hours and location on the map stated.

To grow your social media following, offer some small perk for customers who will like your page on FB or follow you on Instagram e.g. free snack.

Invite online influencers to your opening

While attracting journalists and media might be a little tough for a small bar, inviting a few popular online personas (bloggers, vloggers, instagrammers etc) to live cover your big night may bring you the same buzz levels. And attract journalists afterwards.

Offer a complimentary appetizer to first 25 people to share your post

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Offer a secret deal to social media followers

Enlist a special drink/food on the menu that any of your followers can order in case they do some social media action e.g. post a photo and tag you; write a special status etc.

Gauge the anticipation in advance

Reach out to your local media, covering lifestyle and restaurant business, in advance offering an exclusive sneak-peek inside your venue.

Start a happy hour

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Offer special deals through group buying platforms

Post a discounted deal at sites like Groupon and LivingSocial for a limited amount of time to attract new visitors. If they like your service, they will spread the word for you!

Collaborate with other businesses nearby

Ask a bookstore to nail your posters in exchange for placing their leaflets on your tables. Offer a pizza delivery to give away your cards in exchange for doing same. It’s a win-win option for both parties.

Hold a “beat the clock” contest

Next Friday announce that you’ll start selling beer at half price from 8 pm and will increase the price by 50 cent each hour till midnight.

The next day you’ll be positively surprised by the amount of folks who did try to beat the clock.

Held thematic promotion days

Mondays can be a Champaign days with 10% discount on all bubbly drinks; Tuesdays are all for tequila; Wednesday is a snack day and so on. Your visitors should know that no matter which day of the week they come, they’d always get a special deal. You can also pair drink discounts with food discounts.

10. Run your bar

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

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.

bar and restaurant business plan

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.

ease of accessibility

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.

barbacks

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

Name cocktails

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.

tapas bar

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.

group of friends enjoying music at rooftop bar

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.

Bar marketshare

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.

Wine tasting event

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

Infographic advertizing Perfect Venue with an image of a birthday party

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!

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

How to Write a Bar Business Plan + Free Sample Plan PDF

Author: Elon Glucklich

Elon Glucklich

6 min. read

Updated March 17, 2024

Download Now: Free Business Plan Template →

Free Downloads: Sample Bar and Brewery Business Plan Templates

From sports bars to neighborhood pubs to upscale cocktail bars—drinking establishments are one of the oldest and most enduring types of businesses.

And the industry is projected to grow nearly 2.5% between 2023 and 2030, leaving plenty of opportunity for new businesses..

But competition in the bar industry can be fierce. You need to know your clientele, competitors, and how you’ll stand out if you want to succeed. Not to mention mapping out all the details of your financials and operations. 

Luckily, you can cover all of that (and more) by writing a business plan.

  • What should you include in a bar business plan?

These are the typical sections to consider including in your bar business plan.

  • Executive Summary
  • Market Analysis
  • Marketing and Sales Strategy 
  • Operations Plan
  • Business Overview

Financial plan

The sections you need will vary depending on why you’re writing a business plan and what you intend to do with it . 

Suppose it’s to manage your operations and not something you expect anyone outside of the business to read. In that case, consider keeping it to a few pages and skipping sections like the executive summary.

If you’re applying for a loan, then you’ll need a more formal plan that includes all the sections listed above.

Check out our step-by-step guide to writing a full business plan for more details.

A sample bar business plan outline.

  • The 6 elements of an effective bar business plan

Executive summary

Your executive summary is a short, high-level overview of your entire plan. 

The summary should give readers a sense of what factors will make your bar successful. That could include securing a high-visibility location, partnering with a chef who will oversee meal preparation, or negotiating deals with brewers to get their beers in your bar.

If you’re seeking a bank loan for your bar, the lender will read your executive summary first. In all likelihood, they won’t read any further unless the executive summary grabs their attention. 

So, make it clear and convincing.

Market analysis

The market analysis may be the most important part of your entire business plan. 

It’s where you carefully research and document:

  • Who your target customers are
  • What they want
  • What other establishments they may consider

Start by identifying the size of your market . Focus on the number of potential customers above the legal drinking age in your area. Then, segment these customers based on demographics such as age, income level, and lifestyle preferences. 

Then look into who you will be competing with. List and research other bars as well as indirect competition from restaurants, clubs, and even grocery stores that sell beer or home entertainment options.

Here are a few examples of what this process will look like:

Bar customer segmentation

If you find there are a lot of college students and younger adults near your bar location, you should cater your offerings to their tastes. But if you’re near office buildings or event venues, you may want to focus on older customers with more disposable income.

Will you offer a more diverse drink menu, better food, or a unique theme? Explain how these factors will set your bar apart and attract customers. Or, if your area lacks a certain type of bar, such as a sports bar or a high-end cocktail lounge, describe how filling this gap in the market will serve as your competitive advantage.

Marketing and sales strategy

Your market analysis gives you insights into potential customers. Your marketing and sales strategy is where you use those insights to get those customers in your door.

As you looked around at your competitive landscape, maybe you gained some insight into how your ideal customers discover new bars — through social media, online reviews, local event listings, or word-of-mouth.

Start by developing marketing strategies that are tailored to those channels . Consider tactics like:

  • Creating engaging social media content showcasing your unique drinks, events and ambiance.
  • Partnering with local businesses or events to increase visibility.
  • Introducing special promotions to encourage repeat visits and attract new customers.
  • Hosting themed nights or events to create buzz and attract specific customer segments.

In your business plan, document how you will implement these efforts and the resources required. 

Operations plan

The operations section of your business plan is where you detail the day-to-day requirements for running the bar smoothly. Start by describing your physical space and key equipment, such as:

  • Beverage dispensing systems
  • Glassware and utensils

Specify the types and number of each that you’ll need. Then you can address staffing needs, describing the roles of bartenders, servers, and support staff. Document in your plan that you’ll have a staffing strategy to cover peak hours.

You should also cover inventory management. Describe how you’ll stock alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ingredients for cocktails and food. Be sure to spend time discussing supply chains for sourcing these ingredients.

Document the types of technology you’re using, like point-of-sale systems, inventory tracking, or customer reservation platforms. 

Finally, ensure that your operations plan demonstrates how you will comply with any licensing, health and safety regulations and that you have a plan for ensuring responsible customer behavior.

Business overview

The overview should fill in any gaps the reader may have, including:

  • The name of your bar
  • When it was founded (if it’s an existing business)
  • The inspiration behind the business

You should include the background and qualifications of key team members here. Include their experience in the bar industry and any other experience that’s relevant to their position.

If you’re running an existing bar, discuss previous achievements like revenue milestones, recognitions, or community events you’ve hosted.

You don’t need a deep financial background to run a successful business. But it’s important to develop projections for how you expect the bar to perform. If you’re starting a new bar, consider that you’ll need to pay upfront costs like equipment, supplies, licenses and rent.

Then there are the ongoing costs like employee salaries, marketing, and continuing to keep your shelves stocked.

Making educated guesses about the future will help you determine what’s working, and where you should make adjustments as you run your business.

Include sales and expense forecasts in your plan. The financial section also should include a cash flow statement , income statement , and balance sheet .

Remember, no one knows exactly how the future will pan out — these projections are your baseline for how you think the business will do, and you’ll adjust them over time as you update your plan with actual results.

  • Bar business plan templates and examples

To see how other bar businesses have created their plans, browse our free library of bar and brewery business plans . You can also check out our full selection of food and beverage business plans , or our entire library of over 550 business plans across industries.

Download as many as you want in PDF or Word format to help you write your own business plan.

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Elon is a marketing specialist at Palo Alto Software, working with consultants, accountants, business instructors and others who use LivePlan at scale. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and an MBA from the University of Oregon.

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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.

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

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></center></p><h2>Step by Step Guide To Write a Bar Business Plan (with Templates) – Updated 2024</h2><ul><li>By Taylor Anderson</li></ul><p><center><img style=

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 , wine 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 Much Does It Cost to Start a Bar? Estimating the cost to open a bar is crucial for potential owners. Starting a bar business can cost anywhere from $100,000 to $800,000. The variance in cost can depend on numerous factors. For instance, the physical location of the bar can significantly influence the cost. A prime city center location might require a heftier initial investment than a suburban spot. Additionally, the floor plan and the design aesthetics you plan to implement can also affect the expenses. Furthermore, acquiring the necessary business licenses to operate your bar legally is another cost element that shouldn’t be overlooked. With a lot of bar competition out there, ensuring you have the key elements to include in your initial investment can set you up for success. 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. (Consider using a bar name generator  for more ideas)
  • 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. (Check out this article to understand the distinction between pubs and bars )
  • 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 create a bar business plan

  • Annabelle Amery
  • 11 min read

how to create a bar business plan

Starting a business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, it requires careful planning and strategizing to ensure its success. One crucial aspect of this planning process is creating a comprehensive and clear business plan . This holds true for any type of business , including a bar business.

A bar business plan is a written document that outlines the goals, strategies and financial projections for starting and operating a bar establishment. It serves as a roadmap for your team, guiding you through the various stages of setting up and managing your bar business.

Looking to take your bar business online by making a website ? Take Wix’s website builder for a spin.

How to create a bar business plan in 6 steps

Writing a comprehensive and clear business plan is crucial when starting any business. It provides a roadmap for success and helps entrepreneurs make informed decisions. A well-structured bar business plan typically consists of six main parts:

Executive summary

Business and domain names

Market analysis and research

Operations plan

Marketing and advertising plan

Financial plan

01. Executive summary

The executive summary is an overview of your bar business plan. It should concisely summarize the key points and highlight the most important aspects of your business. This section is typically written last, but it appears at the beginning of the plan.

To write a clear executive summary for a bar business, include the following elements:

Brief description of your bar concept and its unique selling proposition

Overview of your target market and the demand for your services

Summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profit estimates

Outline of your marketing and advertising strategies

Mention of any key partnerships or collaborations

Example of an executive summary

“XYZ Bar is a trendy, upscale establishment located in the heart of downtown. Our mission is to provide an unforgettable experience for our patrons by offering innovative cocktails, live entertainment and a vibrant atmosphere. With a focus on quality ingredients and exceptional customer service, we aim to become the go-to destination for young professionals seeking a sophisticated nightlife experience. Our projected revenue for the first year is $1 million, with an expected profit margin of 20%. We will implement targeted marketing campaigns through social media platforms and collaborate with local influencers to build brand awareness. XYZ Bar has secured partnerships with renowned mixologists, ensuring our beverage offerings are second to none.”

02. Business and domain names

Choosing the right business name for your bar is essential for building brand awareness and trust among your target audience. The name should reflect your bar's concept and resonate with your target market. To generate name ideas, you can use a business name generator —or specifically a restaurant name generator —for inspiration.

When selecting a domain name for your bar business, keep it short, memorable and easy to spell. Include relevant keywords where possible and avoid hyphens or numbers. Make sure that the name is available and can be registered—follow the necessary steps for registering your business .

03. Market analysis and research

Including a market analysis and research section in your bar business plan is crucial for understanding the competitive environment and developing effective business strategies. Conduct thorough market research to identify your target market, their preferences and the demand for your services. Analyze your competitors to understand their strengths, weaknesses and pricing strategies.

Key elements to include in this section:

Overview of the target market demographics and psychographics

Analysis of competitors, including their offerings and pricing

Description of your unique selling proposition and how you differentiate from competitors

Outline of your marketing strategies, such as social media marketing, partnerships and events

04. Operations plan

The operations plan outlines the logistical aspects of running your bar business. It includes details about the location, premises, equipment and staffing needs.

In this section, address the location of your bar and why it was chosen. This can include details about the premises including its layout and design. Then, incorporate necessary equipment and furnishings. You’ll also want to include staffing requirements, such as the number of employees, including their roles and responsibilities.

05. Marketing and advertising plan

The marketing and advertising plan outlines your strategies for promoting your bar business and attracting customers. It should include a mix of online and offline marketing tactics that are most effective for reaching your target audience. An effective way to market your bar business could be through social media marketing, a strategy that worked for Wix user, Strathcona Spirits ,

Our primary focus has always been social media—we use Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. The main thing for us, on social media, our website, and even the experience in the shop, is to be as inclusive as possible. Keeping the language of our spirits as simple as we can. Being transparent with our barrel routine and how things are aged. Using terms that are unnecessary, or trying to overcomplicate things, excludes people, and we would never want to do that. Our spirits are for everyone. Andrea Shubert, Co-founder Strathcona Spirits.

You can consider also including here an overview of your branding strategy, including your logo, colors and tone of voice. If you don’t have a logo yet, check Wix’s restaurant logo maker for inspiration.

Then, think about which marketing strategies to lead with. You can additionally consider traditional marketing tactics—such as print ads, radio spots or billboards—if applicable.

06. Financial plan

The financial plan is a pivotal aspect of a business plan, offering a detailed roadmap of how the bar business will be funded, its projected revenue and expenses, and the anticipated time frame for achieving profitability. This section provides stakeholders with crucial insights into the financial feasibility and sustainability of the bar business. It will likely include:

Startup costs and funding sources: Starting a bar business involves various upfront costs that need to be accurately estimated for proper financial planning. These costs encompass elements like lease or purchase of the premises, renovation and interior design, licensing and permits ( how to start an LLC and cost, for example), furniture and fixtures, bar equipment, initial inventory, marketing and staff training. Funding for these startup costs can come from a combination of sources, including personal savings, business loans, grants or investments from partners or stakeholders.

Revenue projections: Revenue projections provide a forecast of the expected income over a specific period, typically the first few years of the bar's operation. These projections should be based on careful market research, competitor analysis and realistic expectations.

Operating expenses: Operating expenses encompass costs associated with running the bar business on a day-to-day basis. These include rent or mortgage payments, utilities, staff salaries, marketing and advertising expenses, maintenance and repairs, supplies, insurance and other overhead costs.

Profit and loss projection: The profit and loss projection, also known as the income statement , provides an overview of the business's revenue, expenses and net profit or loss over a specific period. It offers insights into the financial health of the bar business and its potential profitability.

Timeframe for profitability: The timeframe for achieving profitability in a bar business can vary significantly based on factors such as location, target market, marketing strategies and operational efficiency. Typically, bars aim to reach profitability within the first year or two of operation.

Break-even analysis: The break-even point is the level of revenue at which the bar business covers all its expenses, resulting in zero net profit or loss. This is a critical milestone as it indicates the point at which the business starts generating profits.

Example of a break-even analysis calculation:

Fixed costs (annual): total fixed costs (rent, utilities, salaries, etc.)

Average revenue per month: estimate average revenue generated per month

Break-even point: fixed costs / average revenue per month

7 steps to developing a business plan

Bar business plan templates

To help you get started, here are two draft business plans for hypothetical bar businesses. Customize these templates according to your specific concept, target market and goals—and create a plan that’s all your own.

Bar business plan template 1: Upscale cocktail lounge

The Upscale Cocktail Lounge is a sophisticated bar concept located in the heart of a bustling city. Our mission is to provide an elevated drinking experience through expertly crafted cocktails, a curated selection of spirits, and a refined ambiance. With a target market of young professionals seeking upscale socializing environments, we aim to become the go-to destination for after-work drinks and weekend gatherings. Our projected revenue for the first year is $1.5 million, with an expected profit margin of 25%. We will implement marketing strategies targeting our ideal customers through social media platforms and collaborate with local influencers to build brand awareness.

Company name and domain name

The company name for this upscale cocktail lounge is "Elevate Lounge." The domain name chosen is www.elevatelounge.com, which reflects the concept's goal of providing an elevated experience to its customers.

Marketing analysis and research

Target market: Young professionals aged 25-40 with disposable income seeking upscale socializing experiences.

Competitors: Analyze other upscale cocktail lounges in the area, their offerings, pricing and target demographics.

Unique selling proposition: Highlight the unique features of Elevate Lounge that set it apart from competitors, such as signature cocktails or exclusive partnerships.

Marketing strategies: Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes social media marketing, influencer collaborations and hosting exclusive events to attract the target audience.

Location: Choose a prime location in the city center with high foot traffic and proximity to other upscale establishments.

Premises: Design a sleek and modern interior with comfortable seating arrangements and a well-stocked bar.

Equipment: List the necessary equipment for the bar, including high-quality glassware, cocktail-making tools and refrigeration units.

Staffing: Determine the number of bartenders, servers and support staff required to provide excellent service to customers.

Operating hours: Set operating hours based on customer demand and local regulations.

Target audience: Define the target audience more specifically, such as young professionals in specific industries or neighborhoods.

Branding strategy: Develop a unique brand identity with a logo, color scheme and tone of voice that aligns with the upscale nature of the lounge.

Social media marketing: Utilize platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase the ambiance, signature cocktails and upcoming events.

Influencer partnerships: Collaborate with local influencers who resonate with the target audience to promote Elevate Lounge through sponsored posts or event appearances.

Exclusive events: Organize special events like mixology workshops or live music nights to attract new customers and create buzz around the lounge.

The financial plan outlines how Elevate Lounge will be funded initially and its timeframe for reaching profitability. It includes projected revenue, expenses and cash flow for the first year, as well as a break-even analysis. Additionally, it should address potential funding sources, such as personal investment, loans or partnerships.

Bar business plan template 2: Neighborhood sports bar

The Neighborhood Sports Bar is a casual bar concept located in a residential area with a strong sense of community. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment where locals can gather to watch sports, enjoy good food and drinks and socialize. With a target market of sports enthusiasts and neighborhood residents, we aim to become the go-to spot for game nights and community events. Our projected revenue for the first year is $800,000, with an expected profit margin of 15%. We will implement marketing strategies targeting the local community through direct mail campaigns, partnerships with local sports teams and hosting trivia nights.

The company name for this neighborhood sports bar is "The Game Zone." The domain name chosen is www.thegamezonebar.com, which reflects the bar's focus on providing a space for sports enthusiasts to gather and enjoy their favorite games.

Target market: Sports enthusiasts of all ages residing in the local neighborhood.

Competitors: Analyze other sports bars in the area, their offerings, pricing and target demographics.

Unique selling proposition: Highlight the unique features of The Game Zone, such as multiple large screens for game viewing or a menu featuring specialty burgers named after local sports teams.

Marketing strategies: Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes direct mail campaigns targeting local residents, partnerships with local sports teams for cross-promotion and hosting regular trivia nights or game-watching parties.

Location: Choose a location in close proximity to the target neighborhood and easily accessible for residents.

Premises: Design a casual and comfortable interior with ample seating, multiple large screens for game viewing and a well-stocked bar.

Equipment: List the necessary equipment for the bar, including audiovisual systems, kitchen appliances and draft beer systems.

Staffing: Determine the number of bartenders, servers, kitchen staff and support staff required to provide excellent service during peak hours.

Operating hours : Set operating hours based on game schedules and customer demand.

Target audience: Define the target audience more specifically, such as sports enthusiasts in a specific age range or fans of particular sports teams.

Branding strategy: Develop a brand identity that reflects the casual and community-focused nature of The Game Zone.

Direct mail campaigns: Send targeted direct mail campaigns to local residents to promote special offers, game nights or trivia events.

Sports team partnerships: Collaborate with local sports teams to offer exclusive discounts or host pre-game events for fans.

Trivia nights and game-watching parties: Organize regular trivia nights or game-watching parties to attract customers during popular sporting events.

The financial plan outlines how The Game Zone will be funded initially and its timeframe for reaching profitability. It includes projected revenue, expenses and cash flow for the first year, as well as a break-even analysis. Additionally, it should address potential funding sources, such as personal investment, loans or partnerships.

Why create a bar business plan? Top benefits to consider

Creating a business plan is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it provides a clear vision and direction for the new venture. Beyond this, it helps you to:

Attract funding: A well-crafted business plan is essential for attracting investors and securing funding for your bar business. Potential investors and lenders want to see a clear and comprehensive plan that demonstrates the viability and potential profitability of your venture. By showcasing your market research, financial projections and growth strategies, you can instill confidence in investors and increase your chances of raising money for your business .

Outline resource requirements: One of the primary benefits of writing a business plan is gaining a thorough understanding of the resources, supplies and staff required to start and operate your bar business. By conducting detailed research and analysis, you can identify the necessary equipment, licenses, permits and staffing needs.

Plan more strategically: A business plan provides a roadmap for success by outlining your goals, strategies and tactics. It helps you define your target market, understand customer preferences, and develop effective marketing strategies.

Identify potential challenges: Writing a business plan forces you to consider potential challenges and risks that may arise during the course of your bar business. By conducting a thorough SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis, you can identify potential obstacles and develop contingency plans to mitigate them.

Monitor progress: A business plan serves as a benchmark for measuring your bar business's performance. By regularly reviewing your financial projections, sales targets and marketing strategies, you can track your progress and make necessary adjustments.

Enhance collaboration and communication: A comprehensive business plan serves as a communication tool for stakeholders, employees and potential partners. It clearly conveys your vision, mission, and objectives to all parties involved. Additionally, it facilitates collaboration by providing a shared understanding of the business's direction and goals. This enhanced communication fosters teamwork and alignment among all stakeholders.

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How to Craft a Killer Bar and Grill Business Plan

Introduction.

So you’ve decided to start a bar and a grill.

But before you move forward – you’ll have to draft a solid and comprehensive business plan. Creating a business plan for a bar and restaurant is about being specific. Remember, writing a business plan is the first and the most crucial step in starting any type of business.

When it comes to opening a bar and grill, you have to be practical and cover the societal and cultural aspects that complement your town or city. Pubs and bars have been quintessential social hubs for centuries. And why wouldn’t they be? Bars have become meeting and resting spots.

So, when starting a new bar and grill establishment, think about what cultural elements you want to cover and what are customers’ expectations. With a business plan, you can define every aspect of your bar and grill. Whether it’s identifying the target market or figuring out the perfect ambiance – cover essential elements in your business plan.

Without further ado, let’s touch on crucial elements for your killer bar and grill business plan:

Executive Summary

No business plan is complete without an executive summary. It is an overview that sets your vision in motion. Use this section to highlight what you want to cover throughout the bar and grill business plan. First, create a vision for your bar and grill business.

Since each bar has a unique clientele, make sure to be specific and figure out whether you want to create a space that serves cocktails or a bar that garners the attention of patrons enthusiastic about sports.

Your executive summary should also include a mission statement highlighting key elements that’ll make your bar a success. Note the value proposition that would make your bar and grill business stand out from the local competition.

Legal Structure

When choosing a legal structure for your new bar and grill establishment, understand that each business structure comes with some strings attached. Remember, the business structure you choose will have an impact on your taxes, personal liability, and business partners.

When starting a small bar and grill business, you can choose a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability corporation, or S corporation.

Instead of choosing an LLC business structure like most entities, take into account your business risks, challenges, and needs. Whichever business structure you choose, make sure to align it with your bar and grill business plan so that you can achieve your set goals on time.  

Company Description

Whether making a business plan for a restaurant or a business plan for a bar, curate the company description with as many details as possible. If you want to stand out in the local market and achieve your goals, make sure to cover the basics first.

For starters, include the business name, company history or origin, business structure, and mission statement. Also, include a description of products and services and how they can work in favor of the market and highlight the value proposition that will give you the competitive edge over your key competitors.

Cover a story of your company with facts and how it is bound to be successful through ad campaigns and other marketing strategies. Like major brands, use the company description to get the attention of potential consumers.

Products and Services

This section of your bar and grill business plan should cover the products or services you will offer to customers. Highlight menu elements like mixers, garnishes, liquor, and add-ons with proper descriptions.

It is no secret that people often use emotion to make their purchases. So, take this opportunity to name your drinks and write catchy descriptions for products and services. It is the best approach to communicate the message to potential customers and investors.

Get your product sources and opt for local sources that might appeal to most customers in your town or city. Whether it’s a beer selection or cocktails, write a thorough competitive analysis of similar products and services offered by bars in your area.

In fact, this analysis will help you diversify your menu and allow you to gain a competitive edge from the start. In any case, demonstrate your industry knowledge and expertise across all offered products and services. Focus on a value-driven approach and how it would work for your customers.

Also, mention trademarks, copyrights, or patents you’ve applied for or own at the time of writing the business plan. Ultimately, customers and investors would want to know “how” you get your source materials, make products, and the equipment and tech tools you’ve put in place.  

Licenses and Permits

When starting a service-based business like a bar and grill, you’ll need to get relevant licenses and permits. Focus on acquiring state-mandated licenses and permits to start a new bar and grill business. Getting authorizations takes a lot of time, but it is crucial to get familiar with how establishments deal with federal and state agencies.

Create a realistic timeline to get specific licenses and permits to start bar and grill business operations at a selected location. For a bar and grill business, you’ll need to get a certificate of occupancy, a liquor license, a business license, a food-service license, a health department permit, and a signage permit.

Marketing Strategy

Like the finance section, marketing strategy should be one of the detailed parts of your bar and grill business plan. Outline how to plan to find, attain, and retain potential customers for a long time. Include a positioning statement that outlines your target market and how they would likely see your brand.

At this stage, include pre-opening promotional tactics to create a buzz. Part of opening a successful bar and grill business is to set the most competitive prices for drinks from the start. So, make price calculations for each drink and food item.

After launching your bar and grill business, you can roll out consistent marketing campaigns in the form of paid ads, PR, social media, and email to attract new customers. Also, add screenshots of your new site and briefly touch on the content that customers would find most appealing.

Simultaneously, outline how you’ll use your website as an extension to maintain a ubiquitous social media profile. If you want potential customers to be aware of your new bar and grill, write up an overview of your brand positioning. Remember, your brand position creates your brand identity and allows customers to recognize the uniqueness of your brand. Ideal brand positioning involves highlighting details about how you’ll improve overall marketing strategies.

Technology and Suppliers

This part of the bar and grill business plan should include all the tech tools and solutions you intend to implement. Most importantly, mention the point of sale system you’ll be using to optimize, streamline, and manage your new bar and grill business operations. Include other tech solutions like reservation management and online ordering.

You should also highlight how you intend to deal with suppliers regularly. Since the restaurant industry deals with changing terms and prices, you’ll have to do some research before finalizing suppliers. You can either work with a farmer’s market or grow your own vegetables for each season.

Cover the Financial Ground

Like every business, you’ll need to cover the financial aspects. No matter how you get your startup business funds, outline a plan of “how” to spend these resources. With defined finances, you can see how much money you will need to get inventory per week and cover payroll expenses.

It is one of the elements in your bar and grill business plan that will require some quantitative research. You have to be objective about your funding and crunch the numbers based on “your” business concept. Run the bar and grill business’ financial projections to see whether or not you have enough funds to cover all the expenses.

Startup costs depend on the type of bar and grill you want to start. In cocktail bars – the main startup cost is interior design. On the other hand, the major startup cost of dive bars is real estate. On top of startups, ensure your bar and grill business plan includes a  break-even analysis .

If you want to make your bar and grill successful, write down all the financial and technical items. You can also add a summary of potential revenues and profit and loss analysis for the first year or quarter. When starting a bar and grill business, one of your biggest expenses would be around getting the kitchen equipment. It can include:

  • Steam tables
  • Prep tables
  • walk-in freezers
  • Commercial dishwasher

In terms of furnishings, you will also have to cover expenses to get décor, coolers, kegs, a beer-tap system, the main bar, a shelving system, tables, bar stools, chairs, and booths.

Opening a new bar and grill place is an exciting journey. But you also have to be strategic about your planning and focus on what is and isn’t sustainable. Hold onto your core idea that would make your bar and grill business unique. A detailed bar and grill business plan works like a guide and helps you stay on the right track.

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BusinessPlanTemplate.com - The World's Leading Business Plan Template Directory

Bar Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

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Bar Business Plan

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

The following bar business plan template gives you the key elements to include in a successful bar business plan. This business plan can be used for any type of business in the bar industry including, but not limited to: a sports bar, a dive bar, a neighborhood bar, wine bar, cocktail bar, and more.

You can download the Bar business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Example Business Plan for a Bar or Pub

Below are links to each of the key elements of a sample bar business plan to help you write an effective bar business plan.

  • Executive Summary – The executive summary provides an overview of your business idea and summarizes the detailed business plan.
  • Company Overview – The company analysis includes information about your business concept, business model, business licenses, and business structure.
  • Industry Analysis – The industry analysis includes local market research that supports your business concept and provides insights into the bar industry trends.
  • Customer Analysis – The customer analysis provides an overview of your target market including the buying habits of your potential customers.
  • Competitive Analysis – The competitive analysis should identify your direct and indirect competitors (other local bars and other local businesses with a bar) and highlight your competitive advantage or unique selling point.
  • Marketing Plan – The marketing plan includes your marketing strategy to attract customers to your bar establishment and the pricing strategies for the alcoholic beverages that you will serve.
  • Operations Plan – The operations plan includes information on your bar’s day-to-day operations, required bar equipment, inventory management, and expected operating expenses.
  • Management Team – The management team section includes a profile of the bar owner and bar management team, their experience and responsibilities.
  • Financial Plan – The financial plan includes financial projections including a cash flow analysis, projected profit and loss statement, and balance sheet. It may also include information about how you plan to secure funding, including a list of potential investors.

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Bar Business Plan Outline

bar business plan template

business plan for a small bar and grill startup

Home » Food

How to Start a Bar and Grill With No Money [Business Plan]

A bar and grill business is a restaurant where both alcoholic and non–alcoholic drinks are served along with grilled beef, chicken, turkey, bacon, pork, fish, corn, et al. Grilling or roasting is done slowly over low, indirect heat and the food is flavored by the smoking process. The bar and grill restaurant industry is an important segment in the restaurant industry in the United States.

The chain restaurant sector that the bar and grill business is part of in the United States was valued at approximately 128.99 billion U.S. dollars in 2020, down from the previous year’s total of 158.86 billion U.S. dollars.

Steps on How to Start a Bar and Grill Business

Conduct market research.

If you are considering starting a bar and grill business, you would need reliable market research to be able to maximize profits from the business. The first step in the market research process for your bar and grill business should be to develop market-based research questions in line with your overall business goal and objective.

In this regard, you should source information that will help you maximize your business, information that will tell you what your potential market is looking out for from a bar and grill business, and also help you operate your bar and grill business with less stress.

a. Who is the Target Market for Bar and Grill Business?

  • Sportsmen and women
  • Corporate executives
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Business people
  • Every adult in the neighborhood where your bar and grill business will be located.

b. Is Bar and Grill Business a Profitable Business?

Yes, the bar and grill business is a profitable business. The revenue generated by bar and grill businesses in the United States is put at $2 billion annually.

c. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

No, there are no existing niches when it comes to the bar and grill business because the bar and grill business is a niche idea in the chain restaurant industry.

d. Who are the Major Competitors?

  • A J’s Bar & Grill
  • Main Street Bar & Grill
  • The Hideaway Grill
  • Gotham Bar and Grill
  • Tiki’s Grill & Bar
  • Rainbow Bar & Grill
  • Grant Grill Lounge
  • Weber Grill Restaurant
  • Highlands Bar and Grill
  • Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill
  • Arlington Rooftop Bar & Grill
  • Wipeout Bar & Grill
  • Porter House Bar and Grill
  • Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille – Sanibel Island
  • Down Under Bar & Grill
  • Grill 23 & Bar
  • Redmond’s Bar and Grill
  • Madisons New York Grill & Bar
  • Sunset Grille & Raw Bar
  • Miracle of Science Bar & Grill

e. Are There County or State Regulations or Zoning Laws for Bar and Grill Business?

Yes, there are county and state regulations and zoning laws for bar and grill businesses in the United States. Note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets the federal Food Code, however, the FDA doesn’t oversee individual bar and grill businesses. Instead, the various states use the Food Code as the basis for their food codes. They may adopt its rules, interpret them differently or set their own rules.

Please note that in the United States, you are required to follow your own state’s food service code. Visit the FDA website for a list of food service codes by state. Use this to find the state authority handling restaurants and bars and view the laws that apply in your state.

f. Is There a Franchise for Bar and Grill Business?

Yes, there are franchise opportunities for the bar and grill business, and here are some of them;

  • Mighty Quinn’s BBQ
  • Beef’O’Brady’s – Sports Pub Franchise
  • Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom
  • Juniper Grill
  • Buffalo Wild Wings
  • Quaker Steak & Lube
  • Glory Days Grill
  • Buffalo Wings & Rings
  • Hotshots Sports Bar and Grill
  • Black Rock Bar & Grill.

g. What Do You Need to Start a Bar and Grill Business?

  • A Feasibility Report
  • Business and Marketing Plans
  • Business Licenses and Permits
  • A Good Restaurant facility
  • EIN (Employer Identification Number)/Federal Tax ID Number
  • A Corporate Bank Account
  • Suppliers of ingredients
  • Startup Capital

Memorable Bar and Grill Business Names

  • Hunger Box© Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Madison Bob® Bar and Grill Business, LLC
  • Delicious© Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • African Roots® Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Right Way™ Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Vincent Oscar™ Bar and Grill Business, LLC.
  • First Taste© Bar and Grill Business, LLC
  • Bonny Moore® Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • George Shannel© Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Day Fresh© Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Luke Excel® Bar and Grill Business, LLC
  • Night Life® Bar and Grill Business, LLC
  • Lowey Martins™ Bar and Grill Business, LLC
  • Bally Blanco© Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Hip Hurray® Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Holland Boise™ Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Randy Morgan™ Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • The Den© Bar and Grill Business, Inc.
  • Zed Ex® Bar and Grill Business, LLC
  • Bonny Lance™ Bar and Grill Business, Inc.

Register Your Business

A. what type of business structure is best for bar and grill business.

The truth is that there are several options when it comes to the business structure of a bar and grill business, but the one that most players in this line of business consider is an LLC. It is common to consider an LLC because providers want to protect themselves from lawsuits. Please note that an LLC will need an EIN if it has any employees or if it will be required to file any of the excise tax forms listed below.

b. Steps to Form an LLC

  • Choose a Name for Your LLC.
  • File Articles of Organization.
  • Choose a registered agent.
  • Decide on member vs. manager management.
  • Create an LLC operating agreement.
  • Comply with other tax and regulatory requirements.
  • File annual reports.

c. What Type of License is Needed to Open a Bar and Grill Business?

  • General Business License
  • Health and Safety Permit
  • Food Handlers’ License
  • Zonal Permits
  • Signage Permit
  • Operational State Facility Inspections
  • A live entertainment license if you want to provide entertainment such as live musicians or offer dancing or karaoke.
  • A music license if you want to play live, recorded, or streaming music in your bar and grill business
  • A dumpster placement permit that specifies where you can put your trash dumpster outside your bar and grill business
  • A valet parking permit if you plan to offer valet parking for customers
  • Sidewalk permits if you plan to offer outside seating

d. What Type of Certification is Needed to Open a Bar and Grill Business?

You don’t need any certifications to open a bar and grill business.

e. What Documents are Needed to Open a Bar and Grill Business?

  • Business and liability insurance
  • Federal Tax Payer’s ID
  • State Permit and Building Approval
  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Business License
  • Business Plan
  • Employment Agreement (offer letters)
  • Operating Agreement for LLCs
  • Insurance Policy
  • Online Terms of Use
  • Online Privacy Policy Document
  • Contract Document
  • Company Bylaws
  • Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

f. Do You Need a Trademark, Copyright, or Patent?

If you are considering opening a bar and grill business, usually you may not have any need to file for intellectual property protection or trademark. This is because the nature of the business makes it possible for you to successfully run the business without having any cause to challenge anybody in court for illegally making use of your company’s intellectual properties.

Cost Analysis and Budgeting

A. how much does it cost to start a bar and grill business.

There is no clear-cut startup cost for a bar and grill business, but available data shows that the cost of starting a bar and grill business ranges between $75,000 to over $350,000.

b. What are the Costs Involved in Starting a Bar and Grill Business?

  • Business Registration Fees – $750.
  • Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $1,300.
  • Marketing, Branding and Promotions – $1,000.
  • Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
  • Insurance – $1,400.
  • Rent/Lease – $55,000.
  • Other start-up expenses like commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($1,800).
  • Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $30,000
  • Start-up Inventory – $15,000
  • Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $1,750
  • Furnishing and Equipping the Restaurant and Kitchen – $50,000
  • Website: $600
  • Opening party: $3,000
  • Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. What Factors Determine the Cost of Opening a Bar and Grill Business?

  • The size of bar and grill business
  • The choice of location
  • The required licenses and permits
  • The type of facility
  • The type of products retailed in the restaurant
  • The cost of hiring and paying a business consultant and attorney
  • The cost for branding, promotion, and marketing of the bar and grill business
  • The cost for furnishing and equipping the bar and grill business
  • The cost of insurance policy covers
  • The cost for registering the business
  • Source of your supplies and ongoing expenses
  • Cost of recruiting and training your staff
  • The cost for the purchase and customizing of uniforms
  • The cost of the grand opening of the bar and grill business

d. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?

It is not compulsory to build a new facility for your bar and grill business, but if you have the required finance, it will pay you to build your own facility. The truth is that building or reconstructing a restaurant facility will help you come up with a facility that will perfectly fit into your overall business goals.

e. What are the Ongoing Expenses of a Bar and Grill Business?

  • Supplies (inventory expenses)
  • Utility bills (internet subscriptions, phone bills, signage and software renewal fees et al)
  • Salaries of employees

f. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

  • Restaurant Manager (Owner) – $45,000 Per Year
  • Accountant – $32,630,000 Per Year
  • Barman – $30,800 Per Year
  • Grillers – $30,000 Per Year
  • Waiters and Waitresses – $28,100 Per Year
  • Cleaners – $25,000 Per Year
  • Security Guard -$24,000 Per Year

g. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Bar and Grill Business?

  • Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
  • Raising money from investors and business partners
  • Sell shares to interested investors
  • Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
  • Source for soft loans from your family members and friends.

Write a Business Plan

A. executive summary.

Zed Ex® Bar and Grill Business, LLC is a registered bar and grill business that will be located in one of the busiest residential districts in Garland, Texas. We have been able to lease a restaurant facility along a major road and the restaurant facility is located in a corner piece property directly opposite the largest residential estate in Garland, Texas.

b. Products and Service

  • Barbecued beef, fish, bacon, pork, chicken, and turkey et al.
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Bottled water.

c. Mission Statement

Our mission is to build a world-class bar and grill business that will meet the needs of our customers in the regions/cities where we have our outlets and to sell franchises all across the United States of America and Canada.

Vision Statement

To be amongst the top 10 leading bar and grill restaurants in the United States of America before our 10th anniversary.

d. Goals and Objectives

The goals and objectives of a bar and grill business are to maintain a strict cost-control policy. General cost-control goals set by most bar and grill restaurant owners include maintaining food costs at or below 33.3 percent and beverage costs at or below 25 percent of the revenue they generate.

e. Organizational Structure

  • Restaurant Manager (Owner)
  • Waiters and Waitresses
  • Security Guard

Marketing Plan

A. swot analysis.

  • Ideal location for a bar and grill business
  • Highly experienced and qualified employees and management
  • Access to supplies of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Unique grill recipe.
  • Reliable and efficient inventory management system.
  • Financial constraints may restrict the publicity and branding of the business
  • Our new business will be competing with well-established bar and grill restaurants in the city.
  • Inability to retain our highly experienced and qualified employees longer than we want during the teething stage of the business.

Opportunities:

  • A rise in the number of grilled food lovers within our market space
  • Online market, new services, new technology, and of course the opening of new markets.
  • The arrival of a new bar and grill business within our market space
  • Economic uncertainty
  • Liability problems
  • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could change its regulatory status and decide to enforce strict regulations that can strangulate new businesses like ours.

b. How Do Bar and Grill Businesses Make Money?

Bar and grill businesses make money by selling the following products;

  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Bottled water

c. Payment Options

  • Payment via bank transfer
  • Payment with cash
  • Payment via credit cards
  • Payment via online bank transfer
  • Payment via check
  • Payment via mobile money transfer
  • Payment via bank draft

d. Sales & Advertising Strategies

  • Introduce your bar and grill business by sending introductory letters alongside your brochure to corporate organizations, households, sports organizations, gyms, schools, socialites, celebrities, and other key stakeholders throughout the city where your bar and grill business is located.
  • Advertise on the internet on blogs and forums, and also on social media like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn to get your message across
  • Create a basic website for your business to give your business an online presence
  • Directly market your products.
  • Join local bar and grill business associations for industry trends and tips
  • Provide discount days for your customers
  • Advertise our business in community-based newspapers, local TV and radio stations
  • List your business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
  • Encourage the use of word-of-mouth marketing (referrals)

Financial Projection

A. how much should you charge for your product/service.

The price of drinks and grilled food depends on the size and type of grill food, and the brand of drink but the average price of a beer in the U.S. is $4.75.

b. How Much Profit Do Bar and Grill Business Owners Make a Year?

The profit a bar and grill business owner is expected to make in a year depends on some factors, but available reports show that most bar and grill restaurants bring in profits of between 7% and 13%. Therefore, a restaurant with annual revenue of $800,000 will have net profits somewhere between $56,000 and $104,000.

c. What Factors Determine the Amount of Profit to Be Made?

  • The capacity of the bar and grill business
  • The types of grilled foods and brands of drinks retailed in the restaurant
  • The location the bar and grill business is covering
  • The management style of the bar and grill business
  • The business approach of the bar and grill business
  • The advertising and marketing strategies adopted by the bar and grill business.
  • The number of years the bar and grill restaurant is in business.

d. What is the Profit Margin of a Bar and Grill Business?

The profit margin of a bar and grill business is not fixed. On average, bar and grill businesses tend to have an overall profit margin of between 7% and 13% annually.

e. What is the Sales Forecast?

Below is the sales forecast of a bar and grill business. It is based on the location of the business and other factors as it relates to such startups in the United States;

  • First Fiscal Year: $320,000
  • Second Fiscal Year:  $450,000
  • Third Fiscal Year: $600,000

Set Up your Restaurant

A. how do you choose a perfect location for bar and grill business.

  • The demography of the location especially as it relates to people that eat grilled foods regularly
  • The demand for drinks and grilled foods in the location
  • The purchasing power of businesses and residents of the location
  • Accessibility of the location
  • The number of bar and grill businesses, and related businesses in the location
  • The local laws and regulations in the community/state
  • Traffic, parking and security et al

b. What State and City are Best to Open a Bar and Grill Business?

  • Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Los Angeles, California
  • New York City, New York
  • San Francisco, California
  • Washington DC
  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
  • Atlanta, Georgia
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Palm Beach, Florida

c. What Equipment is Needed to Operate a Bar and Grill Business?

You will need grill making machines (propane smoker, and grilling machines et al), cooking table, cooking utensils, storage hardware (bins, utensil rack, shelves, food case), Counter area equipment (countertop, sink, ice machine, etc.), receipt issuing machines, Sound System (For playing music),

Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines), CCTV Cameras and Flat Screen TVs. You will also need computers or laptops, internet facility, telephone, and office furniture (chairs, tables, and shelves) amongst others and all these can be gotten fairly used.

Hire Employees

When it comes to hiring employees for a standard bar and grill business, you should make plans to hire a competent restaurant manager (you can occupy this position), account clerk, barman, grillers, waiters, and waitresses, cleaners, and security guard.

Launch the Business Proper

In recent times, no bar and grill business opens its door for business without first organizing an opening party to officially launch the business. You can choose to do a soft opening if you are operating on a low budget or you can go for a grand opening party.

The bottom line is that with a proper launching of the bar and grill business, you will be able to officially inform people in your city that your bar and grill business is open for business.

a. What Makes a Bar and Grill Business Successful?

  • Choose a good location and restaurant facility to launch the business
  • Make available several recipes of grill foods and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (give your customers options)
  • Throw a party before officially opening the bar and grill business
  • Be deliberate with your marketing sales approach
  • Encourage the use of word of mouth to promote your bar and grill business
  • Leverage on all available online and offline platforms to promote your bar and grill business

b. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Bar and Grill Business?

  • The restaurant is open for the day’s work
  • The kitchen, ingredients, serving areas, serving wares, chairs, and tables are cleaned and properly arranged
  • Walk-in customers are attended to
  • Deliveries of orders are made
  • Stocks are taken and reports are written and submitted to superior officers
  • The business is closed for the day.

c. What Skills and Experience Do You Need to Build a Bar and Grill Business?

  • Excellent customer services skills
  • Interpersonal skill
  • Accounting and bookkeeping skills
  • Business management skills
  • Bargaining skill
  • Work experience in a bar and grill business environment
  • Experience in managing people
  • Experience in business administration
  • Experience in making different types of grill foods.

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Do you want to put up a bar as a business ? If this has been your aspiration or desire for a long time already, make sure that you have the proper processes and business plan guidelines that can help you present your bar business plan to your target audience in the best way possible. In this article we will discuss how you can write a business plan for your bar startup.

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What Is a Bar Business Plan?

Like any other business plan, this specifically helps owners have a plan for their bar. It contains business goals and a timeframe to achieve them. It serves as a blueprint that guides bar owners in running day to day operations, drawing a growing number of patrons, and becoming a reputable establishment. It is also for getting financial support from potential partners and a guide for the management and operational processes of the business.

How To Draft a Bar Business Plan

No matter the purpose of your bar business plan, it is important for you to identify your business’ vision and mission. That way you can create a business plan that is necessary and helpful for the needs of your business. Check out restaurant and coffee shop business plans as a reference to get started. If you need more ideas, check out these tips in creating a bar business plan.

1. Be Aware Of The Market

Before you begin your business plan, understand the dynamics of the market for bar establishments. Knowing the needs of your customers, the trends that dictate the shift in the marketplace, and the way your competition reacts to certain scenarios can help you properly and carefully execute action plans for your bar business’s growth may it be in reach, actual sales, or brand awareness.

2. Create An Executive Summary

Come up with a bar business plan executive summary that can showcase the mission and vision of the business. You also have to make sure that this overview of what the business plan is all about should contain the principles and values that guide your business as well as the key factors that you need to consider for your successes.

3. Make An Organizational Structure

Describe the company and the nature of its operations before giving details about ownership and management. A start-up summary is most likely helpful in ensuring that the business will follow legal procedures and regulations for its operations.

4. List Down Your Resources

It is important for you to present the financial aspect of the business so that you can attract potential partners and investors, if necessary and applicable. Include information about your products and suppliers as well so that you can keep track of where you can get resources.

What are cocktails?

Cocktails are alcoholic beverages made of spirits and other ingredients such as fruit juice, soda, etc. They are one of the things commonly ordered and consumed in a bar. There are many kinds with varying ingredients, flavor, and appearance.

What makes a nightclub different from a wine bar?

While both places serve alcohol, the set up of the place is different. A nightclub is more focused on the entertainment of the patrons by providing drinks and music. In contrast a wine bar is a tavern-like establishment and tends to have a more relaxing ambiance like bistros.

What makes a tavern different from a bar?

Both places sell alcoholic beverages , but what makes them distinct from each other is that a bar does not necessarily serve food. A tavern on the other hand sells food and would often provide lodging. Taverns are an establishment that has existed for many centuries while bars started in the past few decades.

According to Statista research, sales in the drinking place sector in the United States have reached $23.15 billion in 2015. With the right kind of business plan your bar will certainly make sales that’ll contribute to such a number in the future. If you need more ideas on how to create a business plan then check out our business proposals and marketing strategy examples as references.

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Sports Bar and Grill Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Sports Industry » Sports Bar

Sports Bar and Grill Business

Are you about starting a sports bar and grill? If YES, here is a complete sample sports bar and grill business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a sports bar and grill . We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample sports bar and grill marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for sports bar and grills. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

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Why Start a Sports Bar and Grill Business?

Sports have been a sport that have been loved and watched by both adult males and females from many centuries back. However, due to the evolvement of the industry, more people especially youngsters are also interested in the game.

Starting a sports bar and grill business can be a very lucrative business to start up and this is due to the fact that sports have come to be loved by many and also many now prefer to watch their favorite sports while hanging out and having a good tie with their friends as well in an environment that is considered conducive.

To however start this business, you would need to ensure that your place is spacious enough and that your sports and grills bar business is located in a strategic and conspicuous place.

Getting a business consultant is very important If you intend to start and run this business successfully. A business consultant who has vast knowledge of the industry and who stays in the same business environment will be very vital to get if you intend to start your sports and grills bar successfully.

Getting a business plan is also an essential element of any business. Writing a business plan yourself might not be so easy, and you can either pay a professional business plan writer to write one for you or go online to get sample templates that can act as a guide to writing yours. It is for this reason that a sample sports bar and grill business plan is written for you below;

A Sample Sports Bar and Grill Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The advancement of technology has had a huge impact in advancing the sports bar and grill business here in the united states of America. This is as most sports bars have bigger screens that allow for maximum viewing so as to stay competitive.

Also, the advent of sports bars across the country has allowed customers view games that they cannot watch in their own homes, which is why most sport bars offer all that the NFL network has in order to attract and retain their customers.

A huge source of revenue has been added to sports bar and this is the betting technology that allows customers to not only watch their games but also bet on their favorites. Sports bars have begun to diversify the food on their menu and due to this have been able to compete with full restaurants, thereby killing two birds with one stone and generating more revenue to boost their bottom line.

Also, sport bars have begun to engage their customers by creating a space for games such as table hockey, shuffleboard, darts and so on that will allow their customers participate. According to the National Restaurant Association, food and drink sales in bars and taverns in the United States of America at 2016 had reached nearly $20 billion.

This figure is however small when compared to the wider restaurant industry were food and drink sales have been projected to rise to nearly $784 billion in the year 2016. Sports bar for instance have seen a growth in the consumption of alcoholic beverages as at 2015 by 7%.

2. Executive Summary

Sports has grown tremendously over the years which has led to the springing up of sports bar everywhere for customers who would love to watch sports with their friends and other sport lovers. Entrepreneurs who wanted to add more services that would attract the crowd started adding beverages and food so as to attract not only sports lovers but people who want to hang out as well.

You Win Sports Grill and Bar is a standard and reputable trendy place that is located in West Coast – Florida, and has been established to cater to all sports lovers both locals and tourists. Our aim as a business is not only to generate revenue for our business but also to make profit as well and eventually sustain and grow the business.

Our vision as a business is to ensure that we are known as the top sports and grill bar here in West Coast – Florida and all over the United States of America as well. Our intention is to be on the lips of locals and tourists alike by 2025, and to achieve this we intend to ensure that we build the best business structure that will ensure that all our goals and objectives are attained.

This is what has led to us ensure we deliberately pick a management team that not only has vast experience but is highly committed to the visions and goals of our company and will work hard to ensure that our business is taken from where we are to where we intend to be.

Our management staff will also ensure that they communicate our policies to lower staff and ensure that the communicated policies are understood and well implemented.

Asides from our management staff, we have also employed competent and professional staffs who understand the industry and also how to run this kind of business here in West Coast – Florida. We have ensured that the environment will be conducive enough and easily accessible for our staff so that they can perform their duties very well.

We have the best welfare packages for our employees across similar businesses of our size and start-up across the industry.

We have also put in place incentives for employees who work hard, whenever we carry out performance appraisals, as this is to encourage them to continue putting in their best. We will also ensure that all our employees receive continuous training that will boost their skills and increase productivity for the company.

Because we understand the importance of retaining our old customers while trying to attract new ones, we therefore have put several strategies in place that will ensure that our old customers receive certain discounts on their products as well as for referrals. New customers on the other hand will benefit from our wide range of incentives as well.

You Win Sports Bar and Grills is a business owned and run by two Chinese brothers, Mr. Yuan Young and Mr. Wing Young.  Mr. Yuan has more than 15 years experience in running a sports bar and has managed several sport bars in different locations in the country and so understands the business thoroughly.

Mr. Wing is a customer service expert and has worked as a customer care executives for several organizations as well as in the hospitality industry for over 12 years. His experience and that of his brother will be greatly brought to bear to ensure that the business achieves its goals and objectives.

3. Our Products and Services

You Win Sports Bar and Grill is a leading sports here in West Coast – Florida that will offer all its customers both individuals and corporate services that are aimed at ensuring that they enjoy watching sports whilst also relaxing in a conducive environment as well. Our strategic location in West Coast – Florida will allow for us to generate enough revenue for our business.

Even though we intend to offer our core service of allowing customers relax and have fun while watching sports they love, we will also create other sources of income as well so that we would boost our bottom line and use that in sustaining our business.

All the revenue that will be generated by our sports bar and grill will be one that is legally permissible under the laws of the United States of America. Therefore some of the products and services that we will offer at You Win Sports Bar and Grills are;

  • Sales of food, snacks and beverages
  • Facility rental for private, special and corporate event
  • Sports-book betting
  • Consultancy services

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

  • Our vision is to ensure that we are known as the top sports and grill bar here in West Coast – Florida and all over the United States of America as well. Our intention is to be on the lips of locals and tourists alike by 2025.
  • In order to achieve our vision, we have laid down strategies such as ensuring that we have a solid business structure, maintain tight control or our operating costs and aim for locations that have all the parameters for success.

Our Business Structure

Running the right business structure is very important to us especially as we are looking to build a business that is not only a standard and preferred industry leader but one that excels in all aspects. For this reason, we are prepared to go the extra mile in ensuring that we hire only competent and professional staffs to work with us at You Win Sports Grill and Bar Business.

The employees that we have sourced for to work with us are those who have the necessary experience required and have also keyed in to our vision and objectives and are therefore willing to ensure that all our goals and objective are fulfilled. These employees are also committed to ensuring that we become and maintain the preferred industry leaders here in the food and beverage industry.

We will ensure that our employees work in a conducive environment that is easily accessible and convenient for them. We will also ensure that the welfare packages of our employees are ones that is the best across the industry especially across similar start-ups such as ours.

We also ensure that they undergo continuous training as well that will not only enhance their skills but also improve productivity for us. Therefore the business structure we intend to build at You Win sports Bar and Grill Business is;

Chief Executive Officer

Human Resource Manager

Administrative Manager

Purchasing Manger

Stores Manager

Marketing Executives

Customer Service Executives

Security Guard

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

  • In charge of making policies that will affect the overall direction of the sports bar and grill
  • Ensures that policies are effectively communicated and implemented to all the members of staff
  • Liaises with high level clients on behalf of the company
  • In charge of souring for and recruiting competent employees on behalf of the organization
  • Ensures that proper orientation and induction is conducted for each new employee so that they could acclimatize easily to the organization’s environment
  • In charge of employee welfare, training and performance appraisals
  • Ensures that all the administrative functions of the organizations runs smoothly
  • Liaises with different department and ensures that they are well communicated
  • In charge of ensuring that organizational policies are effectively implemented
  • Procures all the supplies needed by You Win Sports Bar and Grills
  • Sources for reliable vendors and suppliers on behalf of the sports bar and grills center
  • Drafts the purchasing contract document on behalf of the company and reviews it on a consistent basis
  • Ensures that all the stocks for You Win Sports Bar and Grills are clearly accounted for (incoming and outgoing)
  • Checks stock levels consistently and ensures that they are re-stocked at certain levels
  • Monitors industry trends and ensures that stocking practice is up to standard
  • Conducts market research continuously and ensures that new markets are identified on behalf of the company
  • Drafts effective marketing strategies for the company
  • Conducts direct marketing on behalf of the company
  • Responsible for ensuring that all the financial information and statement of the sports bar and grills are prepared accurately
  • Ensures that the budget for use by the sports bar and grill is effectively implemented
  • Prepares tax reports and submits same to relevant tax authorities
  • Responsible for ensuring excellent customer care by answering inquiries, taking bookings and promptly resolving complaints
  • Keeps and regularly updates accurate customer database on behalf of the company
  • Remains updated about industry trends and company policies in order to ensure that clients have the right information all the time
  • Ensures that the premises of You Win Sports Bar and Grills is secured at all times
  • Monitors the surveillance cameras in order to spot an anomaly
  • Provides security info and tips to all employees
  • Picks up deliveries on behalf of the company
  • Supervises loading and offloading of supplies and ensures that they are in line with the necessary papers
  • Carries out light maintenance on the vehicle whenever necessary
  • Ensures that the sports bar is kept clean at all times
  • Ensures that the rest rooms for guests and employees are kept neat and clean always
  • Carries out any other duties as might be directed by the Human resources Manager

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of running a business that is of the highest standard here in West Coast – Florida has led us to seek the services of a reputable business consultant to look thoroughly into our business concept and help evaluate how well we were likely to succeed in the environment, favorably compete against our competitors here, and if it was worthwhile generally going into the business.

Therefore due to our request, our business consultant conducted a thorough analysis of our business particularly our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, in order to determine if these were enough to enable us survive in this industry.

The below analysis is the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of You Win Sports Bar and Grill;

One of our strengths lies in the fact that we are strategically located here in West Coast – Florida, which means there is going to be a large influx of customers coming steadily into our sports bar and grill center, thereby causing a big boost in our popularity and revenue, and allowing us to be able to favorably compete against our competitors.

We also have hired competent and professional employees who have the right experience needed to ensure that our business attains its desired goals and objectives. Our employees have been trained in excellent customer care which will lead to us retaining a huge number of our clients.

Finally, we intend to offer other services in addition to our core service, which will greatly allow us generate revenue and also boost our bottom line enabling us to remain in business for a very long time.

We are relatively new in the business and as such we are not yet known widely amongst our target market. Also, due to the fact that we are relatively new, we do not have the number of employees we seek to help run the various services we intend to offer our various customers.

We also are running on a limited marketing budget, which will severely limit the way our business will be publicized to the public.

  • Opportunities

The fact that we are new and have a whole lot of services in store for our potential and existing customers is enough opportunity for us as it means the more people come to know about our business, the better we would expand to accommodate them. We also intend to massively benefit from peak periods that will be available in the industry.

Facing threats is not an entirely new thing to any entrepreneur, as every serious business man should be prepared to handle any threats that might surface during the course of starting and running the business. A downturn in the economy can be considered a threat as that will mean less people will have the disposable income to want to hang out at sports bar.

Also, having to deal with the arrival of a competitor offering the same services as ours is enough threat. We however, have strategies in place to combat any threats we would likely face.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

  • Market Trends

Sports for centuries has been a beloved past time activity for people, either as participants or as the audience, which makes the sport industry one of the largest revenue generating industry in the entire United States of America. People gather to watch sports in bars due to various reasons either because the match venue isn’t close by, they do not have the fare or they do not like the rowdiness that is usually encountered at live ports grounds.

Sports bar and grills are a relatively new business that is growing rapidly globally and has found a willing audience willing to make this industry trend. The experience to be gotten in a sports bar and grill cannot be usually gotten in a stadium, which is why customers patronize such bars.

Sports bar and grill owners have had to be creative and think outside the box in order to retain a huge number of its customers especially as more of these kinds of bars keep cropping up every now and then.

8. Our Target Market

This industry is one that always sees a steady stream of customers at several times during the year. Even though it might likely seem that a sports bar and grill is limited to a certain group of people such as sports lovers, there are a whole lot of people that also patronize such centers.

Our strategic location here in West Coast – Florida is very vital as it affords us the opportunity to be close to our target market and be able to study the market in order to find new opportunities.

It is for this reason that we have decided to conduct a thorough marketing survey on our target market. This survey we have carried out would help us better understand the market we intend to serve, what they would be expecting from us and what identifiable traits we would need to identify.

According to the results of our research, we are therefore in business to be able to cater to the following group of people;

  • Young adults
  • Middle aged
  • Baby Boomers
  • Corporate Executives
  • Sports personalities
  • Sport lovers
  • Business people
  • Sports bettors

Our competitive advantage

You Win Sports Bar and Grill is a standard center that was established for sports lovers and other people alike where they could watch sports in an environment that was relaxed and secured.

Our intention is to ensure that we are known as the top sports and grill bar here in West Coast – Florida and all over the United States of America as well. We want to be on the lips of locals and tourists alike by 2025 and to achieve this vision we have drafted several strategies that will allow us compete favorably against our competitors.

Our first competitive advantage is to ensure that we offer our customers unique services that cannot be experienced in any other place but here. We intend to have a well organized system that will ensure that the place is not rowdy no matter what sports is on and how many people are watching.

The employees we have hired for our business are those that understand the business thoroughly and are also competent and well committed to ensuring that we achieve our goals and become the preferred sports bar and grills not only in West Coast but in the whole of Florida.

We value our customers because we understand that without them we cannot grow our business and attain the heights we intend to, which is why we have rolled out measures to ensure that we retain a high number of clients whilst also attracting new ones. We have discounts in place, coupons and other strategies that will ensure that we retain our customers.

Finally, because we value a solid business structure and intend to hire the best employees, we will also ensure that our employees are well paid and that they undergo constant training that will not only enhance their skills but boost productivity for our business as well.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

  • Sources of Income

You Win Sports Bar and Grill is a leading and standard center in the industry that is established with the aim of not only generating revenue but also making profit within our first year of starting the business. We therefore intend to offer all our customers here in West Coast different services aimed at ensuring that they remain true to our business.

We therefore intend to offer the following services at You Win Sports Bar and Grill to our various customers;

10. Sales Forecast

There will always be people who want to hang out with friends to watch their favorite sports whilst having a drink or taking some snacks, which means that it is of a huge benefit to us to start this business here in West Coast – Florida.

We are optimistic that our strategic location here in West Coast will allow us attract enough customers to our business that will not only boost our revenue but will ensure that we have made suitable profit during our first year of operations.

However, in order to be able to know how well we can achieve this, we hired the services of a reputable sales consultant to examine the industry and our business thoroughly and help us analyze what our chances were and also what our sales forecast would be.

The information gathered by the sales consultant was based on several data and information gathered from similar start-ups such as ours in the industry as well as in our environment here in West Coast – Florida. Below therefore are is a three year sales projection that was conducted on behalf of You Win Sports bar and Grill and based on several assumptions;

  • First Fiscal Year-: $350,000
  • Second Fiscal Year-: $750,000
  • Third Fiscal Year-: $900,000

N.B: The above sales projections which are for a three-year period was conducted based on what was obtainable in the industry.

Several factors such as stability of the economy and lack of a competitor were used in arriving at the sales projected figures. It should be noted that any change in any of the above factors will likely lead to an increase or decrease in the projected figures.

  • Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Marketing is a very important aspect of the business because revenue is generated during marketing and it is this revenue that is generated that helps sustain the business for as long as the owners want. Any business that does not engage in marketing is primed to die an early death as it is marketing that brings in the various customers for any business to grow, thrive and compete with its competitors.

However, before drafting marketing strategies for use; it is vital that one conducts a thorough market research. The market research is important because not only does it identify new markets and enables us understand it, it also allows us to understand how best to penetrate the market and get a huge share.

The market research conducted helps the company identify the threat of the market and what best way to attract and retain customers in order to ensure the survival of the business for a long time.

We sourced for and hired the services of a reputable marketing consultant here in West Coast – Florida who has a thorough knowledge of the industry and who also knows what marketing strategies are likely to be of benefit to our sports bar and grill business.

The marketing consultant will ensure that the drafted strategies also set us apart from our competitors whilst also creating awareness about us in the industry.

We intend to empower our marketing team so that they could also draft effective marketing strategies for the company in line with our corporate values and goals. Our marketing team will also be empowered to modify, draft and remove marketing strategies that are not effective or not likely to project the company in the best light.

Therefore, below are the strategies we intend to adopt in marketing You Win Sports Bar and Grill to our various customers;

  • Ensure that we place adverts in local newspapers, sports related magazines as well as on local radio and television stations
  • Throw a grand party when we launch our sports bar and grill in such a way that will not only generate interest but attract customers to our center
  • Ensure that we engage in direct marketing and sales to our various customers
  • Use social media platforms such as our Facebook Page, official Twitter account, Snapchat and Instagram to market our services to our teeming customers
  • Ensure that our business is listed online as well as offline (yellow pages) directories
  • Hand out handbills and fliers in several strategic locations

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Having the right amount of publicity is very important for us as a business, especially as we have plans to achieve national recognition by 2025.

In order for us to be able to effectively compete with other brands, we will ensure that we draft effective publicity strategies that will allow us not only become known but become the preferred sports bar and grills here in West Coast – Florida.

To help us achieve the right number of publicity, we at You Win Sports Bar and Grill intend to hire a brand consultant that will ensure that effective publicity strategies are drafted for us that will allow clients, competitors and other stakeholders in the industry to become aware of our business.

The publicity strategies will also generate income for us as a business whilst positively communicating our brand to existing and potential customers. Therefore, some of the publicity and advertising strategies we will use for You Win Sports Bar and Grill are;

  • Ensure that we install billboards in strategic and conspicuous locations all around West Coast – Florida
  • Participate in and sponsor relevant sport related programs in the community
  • Ensure that we place adverts in local newspapers, magazines as well as on radio and television stations
  • Distribute our handbills and paste our fliers in strategic places and hangouts
  • Ensure that our staff wear a customized tee shirt during work hours at our sports bar and grill
  • Use our social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to actively promote our sports bar and grill business

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Due to the fact that we would be offering a combination of services and products, it might be tricky setting a price especially for our services that are intangible. However, we have decided to use several factors to help us arrive at a price that will not only be affordable for our customers but convenient for us as well.

The likely factors that we would be considering are our strategic location, the quality of services that we would be offering, what our competitors are offering, our running expenses and the popularity of our sports and grills bar will go a long way in determining what prices we would set.

However to gain more customers and attract new ones to our new sports bar and grill business, we intend to ensure we give low prices and even discounts during our first three months of operations. Having looked critically at this strategy, we are sure that even though our revenue might be low for these months, we would not be running at a loss during the intended periods.

  • Payment Options

Due to the different services that we would be offering our clients, we intend to ensure that all our customers are offered different payment options that would be suitable and convenient for them and our business. The different payment options we therefore intend to offer at our sports bar and grill are;

  • Payment by cash
  • Payment by check
  • Payment via Point of Sales (POS) Machine
  • Payment via Credit Card
  • Payment via online bank transfer

The above payment options are ones that were carefully chosen by us and will fully serve the intended purpose for our customers and our business as well. They will also run without any form of hitches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In order to set up and start a standard sports bar and grill business, enough capital is needed because there are certain aspects that will require the bulk of this capital spent on.

The capital we will generate for our sports bar and grill business will be used to lease and renovate a facility, pay the salaries of employees and utility bills for a defined period of time, purchase a fairly used van as well as buy other necessary equipment that will make our sports bar and grill, a standard one.

The key areas that we will therefore spend our generated start-up capital on are;

  • Total fee for registering our sports bar and grill business in the United States of America – $750
  • Obtaining of licenses, zoning permits (municipality and state), accounting software and the rest  – $1,250
  • Purchasing insurance coverage (general liability, workers’ compensation, property insurance ) – $5,000
  • Cost of leasing a facility for a year and carrying out renovations – $50,000
  • Costs of hiring business consultants – $5,000
  • Operation expenses for the first 6 months (employee salaries and utility bill payment) – $150,000
  • Purchase of official fairly used van – $20,000
  • Purchase of necessary equipment for use (televisions and speakers)- $5,000
  • General marketing expenses as well as promotion expenses for grand opening event – $5,000
  • Other administrative start-up expenses (phones, furniture, computers and printers) – $6,000
  • Cost of storage equipment (lockers, bins and shelves) – $10,000
  • Cost of start-up inventory (beverages, food, and snacks) – $20,000
  • Cost of launching an official website – $1,000
  • Cost of throwing a grand launching party – $3,000
  • Miscellaneous – $8,000

From the above analytical break down, we would need the sum of $290,000 to be able to start up and successfully run a standard sports bar and grill business here in West Coast – Florida that would be able to compete successfully with others here in Florida.

It should be noted that the bulk of the start-up capital we intend to generate will go into paying the salaries of our employees and utility bills for at least 6 months. The capital will also be used to lease and renovate a facility, buy the necessary start-up inventory and purchase a fairly used truck for business.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for You Win Sports Bar and Grill Business

You Win Sports bar and Grill is owned equally and run by two brothers Mr. Yuan Young and Mr. Wing Young. The two Chinese brothers both have over 27 years experience in the business. They have therefore decided not to seek for any external partners for their business and will prefer instead to generate capital from these two sources.

The two areas where these two brothers intend to generate their start-up capital are;

  • Personal savings
  • Loan from commercial bank

N.B : We generated the sum of $90,000 from our personal savings. We approached the bank for the sum of $200,000 repayable in 10 years at the rate of 3%. All the paper works have been signed and the money will be credited to our account by the end of the week.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

In order to suitably sustain and expand our business, we have considered several factors that will enable us achieve this and they are re-investment strategy, a well built business structure as well as retention of loyal customers.

Our intention for our sports bar and grills business is that we are able to suitably generate enough revenue to enable us not only sustain the business but also re-invest in the business so that the business can start paying off for itself.

We are concerned in building a business structure that will be of huge benefit to our business and so we will hire competent and professional employees who understand the business and who are committed to seeing that we attain our intended goals and objectives.

Finally, we know the importance of customers to a business and are therefore willing to deploy strategies that will allow a huge percentage of our customers remain loyal to us and also refer their friends, colleagues and family members to our sports bar and grill business.

Check List / Milestone

  • Business Name Availability Check: Completed
  • Business Registration: Completed
  • Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
  • Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
  • Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
  • Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
  • Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
  • Application for business license and permit: Completed
  • Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
  • Conducting feasibility studies: Completed
  • Generating capital from family members: Completed
  • Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
  • Writing of Business Plan: Completed
  • Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
  • Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
  • Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
  • Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
  • Recruitment of employees: In Progress
  • Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
  • Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
  • Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
  • Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
  • Establishing business relationship with vendors – wholesale suppliers / merchants: In Progress
  • Purchase of trucks: Completed

Bar Mavericks Logo Design

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

Business Plan-TB

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

A well-crafted business plan not only outlines the vision for your company, but also 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 critical elements that every bar business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Bar Business Plan Template

What is a bar business plan.

A bar business plan is a formal written document describing your company’s business strategy and feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes 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 Bar Business Plan?

A 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 Bar Business Plan

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

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a 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 bar company
  • 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.

If you are just starting your bar , you may not have a long company history. 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 bar company, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen 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 essential component of a 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 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 bar business’ customers may include:

  • People who live or work near the bar
  • People who frequent the area where the bar is located
  • People who are looking for a specific type of bar (e.g., a sports bar, dive bar, etc.)
  • Business professionals

You can include information about how your customers decide to buy from you as well as 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 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 clearly 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, launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your bar business via word-of-mouth marketing or by hosting events.

Operations Plan

This part of your 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 bar business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include increasing the number of regular customers by a certain amount or adding a few new menu items.

Management Team

List your team members here, including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific bar industry. 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, as well as the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product 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 Bar  

Revenues $ 336,090 $ 450,940 $ 605,000 $ 811,730 $ 1,089,100
$ 336,090 $ 450,940 $ 605,000 $ 811,730 $ 1,089,100
Direct Cost
Direct Costs $ 67,210 $ 90,190 $ 121,000 $ 162,340 $ 217,820
$ 67,210 $ 90,190 $ 121,000 $ 162,340 $ 217,820
$ 268,880 $ 360,750 $ 484,000 $ 649,390 $ 871,280
Salaries $ 96,000 $ 99,840 $ 105,371 $ 110,639 $ 116,171
Marketing Expenses $ 61,200 $ 64,400 $ 67,600 $ 71,000 $ 74,600
Rent/Utility Expenses $ 36,400 $ 37,500 $ 38,700 $ 39,800 $ 41,000
Other Expenses $ 9,200 $ 9,200 $ 9,200 $ 9,400 $ 9,500
$ 202,800 $ 210,940 $ 220,871 $ 230,839 $ 241,271
EBITDA $ 66,080 $ 149,810 $ 263,129 $ 418,551 $ 630,009
Depreciation $ 5,200 $ 5,200 $ 5,200 $ 5,200 $ 4,200
EBIT $ 60,880 $ 144,610 $ 257,929 $ 413,351 $ 625,809
Interest Expense $ 7,600 $ 7,600 $ 7,600 $ 7,600 $ 7,600
$ 53,280 $ 137,010 $ 250,329 $ 405,751 $ 618,209
Taxable Income $ 53,280 $ 137,010 $ 250,329 $ 405,751 $ 618,209
Income Tax Expense $ 18,700 $ 47,900 $ 87,600 $ 142,000 $ 216,400
$ 34,580 $ 89,110 $ 162,729 $ 263,751 $ 401,809
10% 20% 27% 32% 37%

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 Bar  

Cash $ 105,342 $ 188,252 $ 340,881 $ 597,431 $ 869,278
Other Current Assets $ 41,600 $ 55,800 $ 74,800 $ 90,200 $ 121,000
Total Current Assets $ 146,942 $ 244,052 $ 415,681 $ 687,631 $ 990,278
Fixed Assets $ 25,000 $ 25,000 $ 25,000 $ 25,000 $ 25,000
Accum Depreciation $ 5,200 $ 10,400 $ 15,600 $ 20,800 $ 25,000
Net fixed assets $ 19,800 $ 14,600 $ 9,400 $ 4,200 $ 0
$ 166,742 $ 258,652 $ 425,081 $ 691,831 $ 990,278
Current Liabilities $ 23,300 $ 26,100 $ 29,800 $ 32,800 $ 38,300
Debt outstanding $ 108,862 $ 108,862 $ 108,862 $ 108,862 $ 0
$ 132,162 $ 134,962 $ 138,662 $ 141,662 $ 38,300
Share Capital $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Retained earnings $ 34,580 $ 123,690 $ 286,419 $ 550,170 $ 951,978
$ 34,580 $ 123,690 $ 286,419 $ 550,170 $ 951,978
$ 166,742 $ 258,652 $ 425,081 $ 691,831 $ 990,278

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 bar .

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Bar  

Net Income (Loss) $ 34,580 $ 89,110 $ 162,729 $ 263,751 $ 401,809
Change in Working Capital $ (18,300) $ (11,400) $ (15,300) $ (12,400) $ (25,300)
Plus Depreciation $ 5,200 $ 5,200 $ 5,200 $ 5,200 $ 4,200
Net Cash Flow from Operations $ 21,480 $ 82,910 $ 152,629 $ 256,551 $ 380,709
Fixed Assets $ (25,000) $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Net Cash Flow from Investments $ (25,000) $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Cash from Equity $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Cash from Debt financing $ 108,862 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ (108,862)
Net Cash Flow from Financing $ 108,862 $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 $ (108,862)
Net Cash Flow $ 105,342 $ 82,910 $ 152,629 $ 256,551 $ 271,847
Cash at Beginning of Period $ 0 $ 105,342 $ 188,252 $ 340,881 $ 597,431
Cash at End of Period $ 105,342 $ 188,252 $ 340,881 $ 597,431 $ 869,278

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.

Write a Successful Bar Business Plan

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch or grow your bar company. 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 bar business plan is a must for any new bar owner. It’s a great tool for attracting investors and keeping the company focused.  

Finish Your Bar Business Plan in 1 Day!

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  2. FREE 10+ Sample Bar Business Plan Templates in MS Word

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  3. FREE 10+ Sample Bar Business Plan Templates in MS Word

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  4. FREE 10+ Sample Bar Business Plan Templates in MS Word

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