Opening a bar is not an easy task. The competition is huge, considering there are over 70.000 bars in the US alone. You have to be unique and remain on top of the competition at all times if you want your bar to be packed every day rather than just on the weekends.
If you’re wondering how to open a bar and stay ahead of the competition there are a few strategies you need to consider, including writing a solid business plan and using the power of social media. So, read on to learn a few marketing ideas to grow your business.
Use the Power of Social Media
Businesses are using social media to share information about their business, advertise their products or services, and interact with other companies and customers. The use of social media in the bar industry is quickly becoming a popular way for new bars to gain exposure. But what platform should you focus on?
Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are currently trending platforms and you can easily reach your target audience through them. For instance, make sure you learn how to grow your Instagram followers the right way, so you can create a small community that shares the same interest.
Also, you need to focus on regularly posting about your bar on social media. You need to keep in mind that people are more interested in fun and engaging content. So, focus on providing creative content about your bar and its offerings to increase your sales and grow your business.
Get Reviews
Reviews from existing clients will attract potential ones. The best way to get reviews is to provide excellent customer service and make sure that your customers are happy with the product or service. Encourage customers to share their opinion about your business online, and make sure you share it on your social media platforms.
Even when you receive negative reviews, don’t ignore them. Every negative feedback can be turned into something positive. Maybe the clients didn’t like the customer service or the drink that you offered. Think about what made them write a negative review and use it to improve the way your business operates.
Have Theme Nights
Theme nights are a great way to bring in more customers. You can use them to promote your bar or restaurant. You can also use them to promote a new product or service that you offer as of recently.
The best thing about theme nights is that they are fun and easy to organize. For example, you could have a “Date Night” every Thursday night where each couple gets one free drink. However, you don’t have to make every night a theme night. You can make them once or twice a week, depending on what your customers like.
Organize Happy Hour
Having a great happy hour can help your business attract customers and offer them something different. Plus, it’s an easy way to promote your establishment because you’re giving people an extra reason to come. Keep in mind that happy hours don’t have to be just for the evening. You can mix them up and offer them during lunch, or for a short time during the day.
Offer a Unique Experience
Bars are not just places to drink. They’re places that offer unique experiences and attract a crowd. With more bars opening around the world, it can be tough to stay afloat. The best way to beat competitors is to offer something different that customers want and are willing to spend money on.
For instance, you can offer unique cocktails made from scratch in front of clients. They’ll surely enjoy the process of their drink being prepared in front of them. If you pair that experience plus the unique taste of your drinks, you’ve discovered the secret to every successful bar out there.
Have a User-Friendly Website
A user-friendly website is key for any business, including bars. You will also need to attract those that search online before visiting an establishment in person. It’s the first impression they will get of your bar and it’s what will convince them to visit. A well-designed website should be easy to navigate, with a clear and concise menu that doesn’t overwhelm visitors with too many choices.
Another great idea is to share simple recipes for cocktails that people can make at home. That way, your website will have lots of views, and your clients will be happy too.
Host Private Events
Hosting a private event at your bar can be a great way to get lots of customers through the door. You can host birthday parties, anniversaries, and celebrations while offering discounts and special offers. This will make people interested in your bar, and you’ll also have the opportunity to gain new clients thanks to your regular ones that decided to throw a party at your place.
Bottom Line
Opening a bar is the easier part, but running it successfully will require a big portion of your time and lots of creativity. Make sure you check your competition and what’s trending to get an idea of what you can improve about your bar. If you implement the tips given in this article, you will be able to run your bar successfully and boost your profits.
