5 Tips On How To Successfully Start A Mobile Bar

If you're aspiring to become a mixologist or simply want to start your own business, then owning a mobile bar might be the perfect option for you. Mobile bars are becoming more and more popular, and they offer a lot of flexibility and opportunities for growth.

Unlike conventional built-in bars, these portable units are flexible and can be used in different venues and events—like weddings, sporting events, and catering halls. They are part of the bar and nightclub industry in the U.S. which gets most of its revenue from selling alcoholic beverages.

This blog post will discuss the basics of starting your own mobile bar. We'll cover everything from business plans to promotions. So whether you're just getting started or looking to take your bar business to the next level, this guide is for you!

1. Develop a Business Plan

Before spending any cash, draft a business plan that maps out every detail. You have to factor in the costs of opening a mobile bar, recurrent expenses, target market, competitors, and pricing strategy.

25% of startups without a business plan close within the first two years. Your mobile bar has a better chance of success if you plan every aspect of the business.

The first step in starting any business is creating a business plan. This document will outline your goals, strategies, and how you plan on achieving them. When it comes to owning a mobile bar, there are a few key things you'll need to include in your business plan:

• Overview of your business

This is important when setting up your mobile bar. You need to put in your goals and how they can be achieved to stay focused and make them come true! It should also contain your vision and mission statements.

• Services offered

By offering a specific type of drink, you give your consumers an idea about your bar style. You can decide whether to offer cocktails , wines , craft beer to your consumers. You can even think of serving various food options to pair with your drinks!

• Target market and market trends

The target market should understand who you're marketing to and what trends will affect their buying decisions.

2. Set Up a Business Bank Account

To keep track of your business expenses and payments, you need to have a separate company account. It’s very easy to mix your personal money with money from your business if you don’t have different accounts.

When you have a business bank account, you get credit cards that can help you build a credit history and get better financing in the future. In addition, a business bank account enables you to manage your finances and file your taxes properly.

3. Obtain Permits and Licenses

Permits and licenses are critical when operating a mobile bar business. If you fail to obtain the proper documents, you’ll get charged hefty fines and may end up losing your business.

Companies that sell alcoholic beverages must get a liquor license from their states and local agencies. Take time to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations that govern your business. You can also check with your state’s alcohol control board for more information.

You may also need to obtain permits from the health department and fire marshall. These agencies will inspect your business to ensure that it meets all safety requirements.

4. Purchase a Used Car

The initial costs of a mobile bar depend on the exact business. However, as with any other new business, developing creative ways to save money is crucial.

You can save by purchasing a used car instead of a new one. If you are unsure about the options available, reach out to your local dealership and get more information about used cars that could be a good fit for your mobile bar business. These are pretty affordable and ideal for first-time entrepreneurs.

• Mobile Bar Design

Deciding for the perfect mobile bar design can help reduce your costs. There are many different bar designs to choose from, so you can find the perfect one that meets your needs and budget.

• Structural Fixtures to Include

Knowing what fixtures to install, such as where to put the lights, bar signs , bar lighting , etc., will help make your mobile bar functional and organized.

• Bar Equipment to Consider

List down the bar tools you will need, such as blenders, shakers, jiggers, strainers, shot glasses, and more. Make sure to have everything you need before starting your business.

• Stock Your Bar Wisely

You will need to have a variety of liquors, wine, and beer on hand to cater to different customers. Make sure you do your research so that you know how much of each type to purchase.

5. Promote Your Business

For your mobile bar to get noticed, you need a marketing strategy. There are different events every weekend that could use your services. Use traditional and digital marketing techniques to let people and brands know about your business.

Make the most of social media, a crucial marketing tool used by about 83% of marketers. The more people know about you, the more business you get. Create a website for your business, and make sure to list all the services you offer.

Conclusion

Starting a mobile bar is more affordable than starting a traditional one, but it does require careful planning to ensure that your business will be successful. We’ve outlined the steps you should take, and hopefully, this helped you get started in the right direction.