Do you want to run a pub for the first time? It’s a fantastic opportunity to work for yourself and take advantage of the United Kingdom’s passion for serving and hospitality.
But there are a few things you should know before getting started. To operate a pub, we’ve put up a step-by-step guide for you.
How to run a bar – step-by-step
1. You can choose between freehold, leasehold, and tenancy.
There are three primary methods to run a pub. You will own the establishment outright in a freehold pub. This is most likely going to require a mortgage. Freehold pub owners, on the other hand, can frequently obtain excellent price savings from their suppliers.
In a leasehold, you acquire the legal right to use the pub for a set period. A landlord, such as a brewer, may create a lease or sell or assign it to another pub owner. The business is sold as a going concern.
2. Get trained
If you’re operating a bar for the first time, you’ll likely want some coaching. A personal license is required, as well as various other accreditations for topics like personal license operation and health and safety. If you’re leasing a pubco, you’ll probably have to go through additional training.
3. Think about legal compliance
You should also think about relevant insurance measures, such as health and safety training and personal licenses, as well as insurance – learn more about pub owners’ and renters’ insurance obligations.
Insurance for pubs
We would be happy to assist you in obtaining the appropriate insurance for your new bar. Some of the coverage options to consider include:
- Public liability insurance, You may get complete business liability coverage that covers you in the event of an accident or damage to someone else’s property caused by your company.
- Employers’ liability insurance, That’s what you’ll need if you have employees (If you can’t find what you’re looking for, and it’s important to have it, you might be fined.)
- Buildings insurance, The premises insurance policy will cover your property for damage caused by a calamity like fire or water that occurs on it.
4. Recruit staff
A pub’s success is determined by the people who work there. You’ll need to figure out where you should employ the correct individuals — and, more importantly, the talents you require. Fortunately, there are now a growing number of specialized pub and hospitality employment firms all across the country.
5. Think about stock
Any pub owner would agree that a key consideration is the availability of inventory. If you’re in a tied pub, you’ll have to purchase from the brewery or pub company. However, if you’re free of ties, you may be able to get better pricing by haggling with suppliers.
You might even have to provide the glassware, as to which plastic glassware will always be recommended. This helps to avoid any nasty injuries. You can purchase equipment for your pub at Drinkstuff.
6. Develop your business
Finally, once you’ve stood up, you may want to consider expanding your business. There are many possibilities here, from taking on new pubs to extending an existing one. Whether you’re running pub quizzes or booking events in the backroom of your existing venue, such as London’s Antic Pubs, there are a plethora of options for expanding your pub and its brand.
Ready to start your pub?
Running a pub is a fast-paced, interesting experience. Create a compelling idea and business plan, do comprehensive market research, and focus on how you’ll make your pub stand out in your neighbourhood.