business plan sports bar

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

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

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

This article provides an overview of the critical elements that every sports bar owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Bar Business Plan Template

What is a sports bar business plan.

A sports 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 Sports Bar Business Plan?

A sports 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 Sports Bar Business Plan

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

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a sports 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 sports 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.

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

You will also include information about your chosen sports 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 sports 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 sports 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 sports bar’s customers may include:

• Families with young children looking for a casual, affordable place to eat and drink while watching their favorite sports team play.
• Professionals in their twenties and thirties who seek a social environment to watch the game with friends and co-workers.
• Retirees who want to relax in a comfortable setting while enjoying their favorite sports teams.

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

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

Competitive Analysis

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

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

Marketing Plan

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

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

Operations Plan

This part of your sports 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?

The operations plan is where you also need to include your company’s business policies. 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 the following four years. Examples of milestones for a sports bar include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include hitting certain targets for new customers acquired or social media followers gained.

Management Team

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

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

Financial Plan

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

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

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

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Sports Bar

Balance Sheet

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

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

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Sports Bar  

Cash Flow Statement

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

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

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

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Sports Bar  

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

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

A well-written business plan is an essential tool for any entrepreneur looking to start or grow a sports bar company. Leverage these tips to write a winning business plan. Be sure to consult your financial advisor to create accurate financial projections, and remember to update your plan regularly as your business grows.  

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Back to All Business Ideas

How to Open a Sports Bar

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on April 30, 2023 Updated on June 5, 2024

Investment range

$90,900 - $173,000

Revenue potential

$821,250 - $1,642,250 p.a.

Time to build

3 – 6 months

Profit potential

$123,187 - $246,375 p.a.

Industry trend

Sports bars have long been popular spots for sports fans to gather to watch the super bowl or any popular game any night of the week. The sports bar industry has come back in a big way after the pandemic, worth $2 billion in the U.S.

Whether you’re in New York City, Midtown Tampa, or any town in the country, you could start a sports bar to tap into that market and have a great time doing it.

But in addition to a love of sports, you’ll need some business savvy. Luckily, this step-by-step guide has you covered with all the information you need to open a sports bar that will bring on the cheer. 

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

• Share a good time with your customers
• Rebounding market
• Good profit potential
• Compete with other bars and nightclubs
• High startup costs

Sports bar industry trends

Industry size and growth.

Sports bars are a segment of the bars and nightclubs industry and by itself is worth $2 billion. 

• Industry size and past growth – The U.S. bars and nightclubs industry is worth $36.4 billion in 2023, after growing 2.2% for the last five years.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/sports-bars-industry/ ))
• Growth forecast – The U.S. bars and nightclubs industry is projected to decline by a modest .3% in 2023. 
• Number of businesses – In 2022, 1,234 sports bars were operating in the U.S.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/bars-nightclubs-united-states/ ))
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the U.S. sports bar industry employed 11,654 people.

Trends and challenges

• Many sports bars have added interactive sports games such as indoor minigolf, soccer, and pickle ball.
• Sports bars are upgrading their classic bar food to offer healthy or upscale tapas and meals. 
• More people have big screen televisions in their homes, decreasing the clientele of sports bars. 
• Staffing issues are plaguing the sports bar industry and the bar industry as a whole, making it challenging for sports bars to effectively serve customers. 

Demand hotspots

• Most popular states – The most popular states for bar managers are Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and West Virginia. (( https://www.zippia.com/bar-manager-jobs/best-states/ ))
• Least popular states – The least popular states for bar managers are Nebraska, South Dakota, and Louisiana. 

What kind of people work in nightclubs?

• Gender – 44% of bar managers are female, while 56% are male. (( https://www.zippia.com/bar-manager-jobs/demographics/ ))
• Average level of education – The average bar manager has a bachelor’s degree.
• Average age – The average bar manager in the US is 39.1 years old.

How much does it cost to start a sports bar business?

Startup costs for a sports bar range from $100,000 to $175,000. Costs included liquor licenses, space rental and preparation, food and alcohol inventory, and an operating budget.

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your sports bar business, including: 

• Refrigerator 
• Grill, oven, fryer
• Bottle Cooler
• Draft beer equipment
• Ice Machine
• Glass racks
• Glass washing machine
• Bar Blender
• Bar supplies
• Tables and chairs
• Televisions

How much can you earn from a sports bar business?

What you charge for food and beverages will vary based on the item. These calculations will assume that the average bill per customer will be $30. Your profit margin should be about 15% after all your operating costs. 

In your first year or two, you could serve 75 customers per day, bringing in more than $820,000 in annual revenue. This would mean over $123,000 in profit, assuming that 15% margin. 

As you gain traction, sales might serve 150 customers a day.  With annual revenue of more than $1,640,000, you’d make a tidy profit of nearly $247,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a sports bar. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Funding the startup costs
• Finding a great location
• Breaking into a competitive market

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a sports bar, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research could give you the upper hand even if you’ve got the perfect product. Conducting robust market research is crucial, as it will help you better understand your customers, your competitors, and the broader business landscape.

Analyze your competitors 

Research sports bars in your area and online to examine their products, price points, and customer reviews.

• Make a list of sports bars that offer similar products. 
• Review your competitors’ products – their features, pricing, and quality – and marketing strategies
• Check out their online reviews and ratings on Google, Yelp, and Facebook to get an idea of what their customers like and dislike.
• Identify your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. 

This should identify areas where you can strengthen your business and gain a competitive edge to make better business decisions.

Why? Identify an opportunity

You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a sports bar that offers craft cocktails, or a neighborhood bar with an extended happy hour.

You might consider targeting a niche, such as classic bar food and drinks.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products and menu

You’ll want to create a cocktail and beer menu, including draft beers, and a food menu. You could add additional revenue by offering pay-to-play games such as pool or darts. You could also sell sports bar merchandise like t-shirts or beer mugs. 

How much should you charge for sports bar products?

Your prices for various items will depend on market prices in your area, but they’ll also depend on your cost of the items. 

Once you know your costs, use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will depend on your area, and the concept you develop for your sports bar. If you’re in a more established neighborhood, your demographic may be best found on Facebook. Conversely, if you’re in a younger trendy area, your best bets will be TikTok and Instagram. 

Where? Choose a sports bar location

You’ll need to rent out a space for your bar. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a space for your sports bar, you may want to follow these suggestions:

• Demographics : Study the local demographics. Ensure your target audience (age, gender, income level, etc.) is well-represented.
• Visibility : Choose a location that is easily seen by passersby. High traffic areas can help with walk-in customers.
• Accessibility : Ensure the location is easily reachable, offers good parking, and is near public transport.
• Proximity to Competitors : Being near similar businesses can be beneficial (it’s a known spot for your target audience) but ensure there’s enough demand for another sports bar.
• Local Sports Facilities : Being near stadiums, arenas, or popular sports hubs can boost patronage, especially during event days.
• Size and Layout : Ensure the space can accommodate a bar, seating, big-screen TVs, restrooms , and possibly a kitchen.
• Lease Terms : Review costs, lease length, restrictions, and what’s included (like maintenance).
• Safety : Review crime statistics for the area. A safe environment is key to attracting and retaining customers.
• Growth Potential : Consider future developments in the area which could increase foot traffic or demand.
• Licensing and Regulations : Ensure the location can be zoned for a sports bar and can meet all required licenses.

Step 3: Brainstorm a Sports Bar Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “sports bar” or “sports pub”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “PlayPoint Pubs” and “LeagueLounge” over “Gridiron Grub” and “HoopsHub”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead and reserve your business name with your state, start the trademark registration process, and complete your domain registration and social media account creation. 

Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick a name, reserve it and start with the branding, it’s hard to switch to a new name. So be sure to carefully consider your choice before moving forward. 

Step 4: Create a Sports Bar Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize your sports bar business plan, including your concept, target audience, and financial outlook.
• Business Overview: Provide an overview of your sports bar, including its location, size, and the type of sports and events it will focus on.
• Product and Services: Detail the menu offerings, drinks, and any unique services or entertainment options like live music, trivia nights, or themed events.
• Market Analysis: Analyze the local market for sports bars, considering factors like demographics, competition, and potential demand for your niche.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify other sports bars in the area and explain how your establishment will differentiate itself, whether through pricing, sports coverage, or ambiance.
• Sales and Marketing: Describe your strategies for attracting customers, including advertising, promotions, and partnerships with local sports teams or organizations.
• Management Team: Introduce yourself and any key team members involved in running the sports bar, highlighting relevant experience in the hospitality or food and beverage industry.
• Operations Plan: Explain how your sports bar will operate daily, covering hours of operation, staffing, inventory management, and customer service.
• Financial Plan: Present financial projections, including startup costs, revenue forecasts based on expected customer traffic, and profitability estimates.
• Appendix: Include any supporting documents, such as sample menus, mock-ups of the sports bar layout, and marketing materials.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to sports bar. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your sports bar will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company ( LLC ) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.  Here’s how to form an LLC .
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.  Read how to start a corporation here .
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like  Kickstarter  and  Indiegogo  offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like  Fundable  and  WeFunder  enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a sports bar business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.  

Step 8: Apply for Bar Licenses and Permits

Starting a sports bar business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You’ll need to check with your state and local governments about liquor license, food service license, and health permit requirements. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your sports bar business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as  Mr. Black , Sevenrooms , or Focus , to manage your inventory, pricing, sales, payments, and employees.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Create a website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism. You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

Your customers are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization (SEO) practices. SEO will help your website appear closer to the top in relevant search results, a crucial element for increasing sales. 

Make sure that you optimize calls to action on your website. Experiment with text, color, size, and position of calls to action such as “Contact Now”. This can sharply increase purchases. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Theme Nights and Special Events: Plan themed nights around popular sports events, such as game-day specials, jersey nights, or trivia competitions, to create a unique and engaging atmosphere.
• Local SEO  — Regularly update your Google My Business and Yelp profiles to strengthen your local search presence.
• Social Media Engagement: Leverage platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to share real-time updates, promotions, and exclusive offers, fostering a sense of community among sports enthusiasts.
• Partnerships with Local Sports Teams: Collaborate with local sports teams or leagues to sponsor events, host watch parties, or offer discounts to fans on game days, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
• Happy Hour Promotions: Introduce enticing happy hour deals during non-peak hours to attract customers, encouraging them to unwind and enjoy the sports experience without breaking the bank.
• Interactive Fan Experience: Invest in interactive elements like sports trivia games, prediction contests, or fantasy sports leagues to engage patrons during halftime or slower periods, enhancing their overall experience.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program that rewards customers for repeat visits, encouraging brand loyalty and transforming occasional visitors into regular patrons.
• Influencer Collaborations: Partner with local sports influencers or personalities to promote your sports bar, leveraging their fan base to increase awareness and credibility.
• Themed Menu Items: Create a menu that reflects the spirit of different sports seasons or major events, offering unique and themed food and drink options to enhance the overall sports viewing experience.
• Community Sponsorships: Support local community events, tournaments, or youth sports teams to enhance your sports bar’s visibility and build a positive reputation within the neighborhood.
• Game-Time Promotions: Offer time-sensitive promotions tied to specific game moments, such as discounted drinks for every touchdown or goal scored, creating a dynamic and interactive atmosphere during live games.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your sports bar meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your sports bar business could be:

• Every game, every day
• Celebrate game day with craft cocktails and fine food
• Biggest draft beer selection in town

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a sports bar business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in sports bars for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in sports bars. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

You will lneed workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a sports bar business include:

• Bartenders – make and serve drinks
• Wait Staff – take orders, customer service
• Servers – serve food
• Cooks – prepare food items
• Marketing Lead – create and implement marketing strategies
• General Manager – scheduling, accounting, inventory management

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Sports Bar – Start Making Money!

Sports bars are a great place for people to interact with comrades or rivals on game day and can also be fun anytime. By starting your own sports bar, you could offer people a great experience, share in the fun, and make a good living at the same time.

You’re ready to go with your business savvy now, so roll up your sleeves and get your successful sports bar going!

• Sports Bar Business FAQs

A sports bar can be very profitable. It takes a good location, a good concept, and proper marketing and management to be successful.

A sports bar can grow by increasing product offerings and adding new locations. When a sports bar is successful, it can even be a franchise opportunity.

If you want to be a hands-off owner and trust other people to run your business, you can do it on the side. However, you’ll be paying more in salaries and wages and you’ll lose control over how the business is managed.

Sports bars are expensive to start. You can’t start one with no money, but you may be able to find financing from family and friends, or from an SBA loan.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Sports Bar Name
• Create a Sports Bar Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Bar Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Sports Bar - Start Making Money!

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Our sample business plans are examples of what one business owner did. That doesn't make them perfect or require you to cram your business idea to fit the plan structure.

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Sports Bar Business Plan Template & Guidebook

How to write a sports bar business plan in 7 steps:, 1. describe the purpose of your sports bar business., 2. products & services offered by your sports bar business., 3. build a creative marketing stratgey., target market, customer base , product or service description, competitive analysis, marketing channels, form an llc in your state, 4. write your operational plan., what equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a sports bar business, 5. management & organization of your sports bar business., 6. sports bar business startup expenses & captial needed., 7. financial plan & projections, frequently asked questions about sports bar business plans:, why do you need a business plan for a sports bar business, who should you ask for help with your sports bar business plan, can you write a sports bar business plan yourself, related business plans, home inventory business plan template & guidebook, home inspection business plan template & guidebook, home decor business plan template & guidebook, health and wellness business plan template & guidebook, hauling business plan template & guidebook, hardware business plan template & guidebook, handyman business plan template & guidebook, hair extension business plan template & guidebook, handbag business plan template & guidebook.

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Score Big Profits: The Ultimate Checklist for Opening a Lucrative Sports Bar

Related blogs.

• Score Big with Your Wallet: The Profitable World of Sports Bars!
• From the Bench to the Bar: The Startup Cost of Opening a Profitable Sports Bar
• 7 Must-Track KPI Metrics for Sports Bar Owners

1. Research Your Market

Before embarking on opening a sports bar, it is important to conduct thorough research of the market. This will help you understand the potential challenges and opportunities that exist within the industry. Some key areas to focus on during the research process include:

• Demographics: You should examine the demographics of your target market to determine whether there is a demand for a sports bar in the area. Consider factors such as age, income levels, and lifestyle habits.
• Competition: It is important to conduct competitive analysis to understand the strengths and weaknesses of other sports bars in the area. This can help you differentiate your business and position it for success.
• Trends and Industry Outlook: Stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry and consider the long-term outlook for a business in this field.

Conducting market research may also involve surveying potential customers, attending industry events, and consulting with experts in the field. This will help you gain a better understanding of the market and make informed business decisions.

Tips & Tricks

• Take time to conduct thorough market research, as this can help you avoid costly mistakes and position your business for success.
• Consider working with a business consultant or industry expert to gain insights and guidance during the research process.
• Utilize online resources to save time and money on market research, such as industry reports and demographic data.

2. Develop A Business Plan & Financial Model

Starting any business requires a well-thought-out plan that outlines the objectives, strategies, financial projections, and potential challenges. Developing a business plan is essential in determining the feasibility and profitability of a sports bar business.

A business plan is a comprehensive roadmap that outlines the steps you will take in starting, managing, and growing your sports bar business. It defines your business's objectives, target audience, marketing strategies, operational structure, and financial projections. Your plan should also include an analysis of your competitors, market trends, and potential opportunities to grow your business.

• Executive Summary: The executive summary is a brief overview of your sports bar business plan. It should include the name and location of your business, your objectives, target audience, competitive advantage, and financial projections.
• Company Description: The company description section outlines your business history, mission statement, legal structure, and ownership details.
• Market Analysis: The market analysis section defines your target audience, competition, and market trends. It should include an analysis of your target customers' demographics, buying behavior, and preferences.
• Products and Services: The products and services section outlines your sports bar's menu, theme, and unique selling point. It should include a detailed description of your food, drinks, specials, and events.
• Marketing and Sales: The marketing and sales section defines your marketing strategies, customer acquisition channels, and sales projections. It should include social media, email marketing, and content marketing tactics.
• Operations and Management: The operations and management section defines your operational structure, facilities, utilities, and staff. It should include roles and responsibilities, training programs, and standard operating procedures.
• Financial Projections: The financial projections section outlines your revenue, expenses, and profit projections. It should include a profit and loss statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet. It should also include break-even analysis and return on investment calculations.

Once you have developed your business plan, the next step is to create a financial model . A financial model is a detailed analysis of your business's financials, including revenue growth, operating costs, capital expenditures, and financing needs. It should also include an analysis of your cash flow, debt-to-equity ratio, and return on investment projections.

Tips & Tricks:

• Hire a professional business plan writer or consultant to help you develop a comprehensive and realistic business plan.
• Use industry benchmarks and market data to ensure your financial projections are accurate and realistic.
• Include a contingency plan in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as a pandemic or a recession.

3. Source Funding

Opening a sports bar business can be an exciting venture, but it also requires a significant amount of investment. Before you start thinking about the fun part of menu planning and décor, you need to consider how you'll fund your business. Here are the top funding sources that can help you open your sports bar business:

• Personal savings: The easiest way to fund the business is to use your personal savings or investment. This way, you won't have to worry about repaying any loans and you'll have full control over how you spend your money.
• Loans: If you don't have enough personal savings, you can consider a business loan from a bank or the Small Business Administration (SBA). You'll need to have good credit and a solid business plan to qualify for a loan.
• Investors: You can also consider finding investors who believe in your vision and are willing to provide some capital in exchange for a share of the ownership or profits.
• Crowdfunding: Another option is to use crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, or IndieGoGo to raise money for your sports bar. This approach is more suited for smaller projects or projects with unique concepts that can capture people's attention.

Tip & Tricks:

• If you're taking a loan, be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms before signing up.
• Keep your investors updated on the business progress and listen to their feedback. They can provide valuable insights and connections.
• Create a compelling story behind your crowdfunding campaign and offer unique rewards to your backers that relate to your sports bar concept.

In addition to the above sources, you can also consider applying for grants, winning competitions, or using credit cards as a last resort. However, be aware that these options may come with higher interest rates or conditions attached.

Once you have secured the funding, create a budget plan and allocate the funds accordingly. Be wise in your expenses, don't overspend or underspend, and always keep a reserve amount in case of emergencies.

Remember that funding is just one aspect of starting a successful sports bar business. With a solid business plan and proper execution, you can attract loyal customers, create a profitable niche, and enjoy the rewards of being a successful entrepreneur in the sports bar industry.

4. Find A Suitable Location

Finding a suitable location is one of the most important steps in starting a sports bar business. Your location can determine the success or failure of your business. Here are some tips to help you choose a suitable location for your sports bar business:

• Research the demographics of the area: It is important to know the demographics of the area in which you plan to open your sports bar. For example, if the area is predominantly young adults, then having a lively atmosphere with music and games will be more suitable. Alternatively, if the area has more families, then having a family-friendly atmosphere with a kids' play area will work better.
• Choose a visible location: Your sports bar should be in a visible location with ample foot traffic so that it is easy for people to find. A location on a main street, near a busy shopping center, or across from popular businesses can help attract more customers.
• Consider parking: Parking is another important factor to consider when choosing a location. You should choose a location with ample parking so that your customers can easily park their cars. If parking is difficult to find, customers may choose to go to another sports bar with easier access.
• Check the zoning laws: Before finalizing a location, make sure to check the zoning laws in the area to ensure that a sports bar is allowed. Some areas may have restrictions on certain types of businesses, and it is important to follow these regulations to avoid any legal issues.
• Assess competitors: It is also important to assess the competitors in the area. If there are already many sports bars, it may be more difficult to attract customers. However, if there are few competitors, it may be easier to establish your sports bar as the go-to destination for sports fans.

Tips and Tricks

• Visit the location at different times of the day to assess the foot traffic and noise level.
• Look for a location with outdoor space, such as a patio or balcony, to attract customers who enjoy being outside.
• Consider a location near public transportation to make it easier for customers to get to your sports bar.

5. Design Business Premises

The design of your sports bar premises is crucial to the success of your business. Customers will spend most of their time at your establishment, so you have to create a striking and functional environment that will keep them coming back. Here are essential tips on how to design your sports bar premises:

• Choose a location with good visibility

The location of your sports bar is paramount to your business success. You want a spot where there is high traffic, both pedestrian and vehicular. Look for areas with a good catchment of potential customers, and with a high level of visibility from the outside.

• Create a cohesive theme

Your sports bar premises should have a visual theme that is coherent with the service you offer. Think about what sports and teams you want to showcase and make sure your design reflects them. A well-constructed theme will help to attract customers and differentiate your business from competitors.

• Ensure comfortability and functionality

The comfort and functionality of your sports bar are important to your customers. Invest in high-quality seats, tables, and adequate lightning. The overall layout of your establishment should be arranged to cater to all types of customers, including those with disabilities.

• Make the most of technology

As the sports bar business continues to evolve, incorporating advanced technology is essential. You may want to invest in interactive screens, social media streaming, and high-resolution displays to ensure an immersive and unforgettable experience for sports fans.

• Adhere to all legal requirements

Ensure that your sports bar premises meets all the requirements stated in local, state and national health and safety regulations. This is essential in getting a license to operate your business and preventing unnecessary lawsuits.

• Light up your establishment with a warm and vibrant color scheme to create a cozy atmosphere.
• Invest in excellent sound systems to improve the quality of your audio and enhance the sports experience.
• Use social media platforms to drive your business growth by promoting deals, live updates, showing photos, and sharing fan-related content.

Overall, designing your sports bar premises will take time, effort, and investment. However, with a well designed and beautifully-crafted establishment, you are sure to attract a wide customer base and give yourself a competitive edge in the sports bar market.

6. Purchase Equipment & Inventory

Opening a sports bar business requires a lot of planning and consideration. You need to make sure that you have all the necessary equipment and inventory to keep your customers happy and satisfied. Some of the key equipment and inventory that you will need to purchase include:

• Furniture and fixtures: This includes tables, chairs, bar stools, and other seating options. You should also consider investing in quality furnishings, such as comfortable chairs and a durable bar top, to enhance the customer experience.
• Kitchen equipment: If you plan to serve food, you will need a range of kitchen equipment, including ovens, refrigerators, freezers, grills, and other appliances. Make sure you invest in high-quality equipment that can stand up to the demands of a busy sports bar.
• Bar equipment: You will need a range of bar equipment, including a bar sink, glassware, wine glasses, shakers, and other supplies. You should also consider investing in a quality sound system to enhance the atmosphere of your sports bar.
• Inventory: Your inventory will depend on the type of sports bar you plan to open, but typically includes beer, liquor, wine, and other beverages, as well as snacks, appetizers, and other food items.

When purchasing equipment and inventory, it is important to work with reputable suppliers and manufacturers who can provide high-quality products. You should also consider your budget and try to negotiate favorable prices and terms to help keep your costs under control.

• Consider leasing equipment to keep your startup costs low.
• Make sure to obtain all necessary licenses and permits for serving alcohol and food.
• Invest in training for your staff to enhance customer service and improve efficiency.

7. Obtain Necessary Permits & Licenses

Before you can start your sports bar business, you must obtain the necessary permits and licenses to operate legally. These licenses vary by location and type of business, so it is important to research the requirements in your area.

Here are some of the common licenses and permits you may need:

• Business license: This is a basic license that allows you to operate a business in your city or state.
• Liquor license: If you plan to sell alcoholic beverages, you will need a liquor license.
• Food service license: You will need a food service license to prepare and serve food in your sports bar.
• Zoning permit: This permit ensures that your business is in a location zoned for commercial use.

You may also need additional permits for building, fire, and health inspections. It is important to plan ahead and budget for these costs, as they can add up quickly. Working with a lawyer or consultant can help ensure that you have all the necessary permits and licenses before opening your sports bar.

• Research the licensing requirements in your area before starting your business.
• Work with a lawyer or consultant to ensure that you have all the necessary permits and licenses.
• Plan ahead and budget for these costs to avoid delays or fines.

8. Executive Staff Recruitment

Recruiting the right executive staff can make or break your sports bar business. The executive staff is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of your sports bar and ensuring its success. Here are some key chapters to follow in the executive staff recruitment process:

Tips & Tricks for Executive Staff Recruitment:

• Look for experience: Look for candidates who have previous experience in the hospitality industry. Experience in the food and beverage industry is a plus.
• Personality is key: Look for individuals with a positive attitude and who can handle the fast-paced environment of a sports bar.
• Check references: Always check the references of potential hires. Do not settle for just one reference, call them all to get a well-rounded idea of their past work experience.

Chapter 1: Identify the Positions You Need to Fill

Determine the roles and responsibilities of the executive staff members you need to hire. This will depend on the size and complexity of your sports bar business, but some key positions to consider include:

• General Manager
• Assistant Manager
• Bar Manager
• Servers and Bartenders

Chapter 2: Develop Job Descriptions

Develop job descriptions for each position you need to fill. Be sure to include key responsibilities, qualifications, and requirements for the role. This will help you attract the right candidates and ensure that you are able to effectively evaluate their qualifications.

Chapter 3: Create a Hiring Strategy

Develop a hiring strategy that includes a timeline for hiring, recruiting channels, and a selection process. Consider working with an experienced recruiter who specializes in the hospitality industry to help you find the best candidates for your sports bar.

Chapter 4: Conduct Interviews and Screen Candidates

Conduct interviews and screen candidates to determine their fit for your sports bar. Ask behavioral questions and use past experiences to determine if they have the necessary skills and experience for the position.

Chapter 5: Check References and Make Offers

Check references and make offers to the strongest candidates. Always make sure to offer competitive compensation and benefits packages to attract the best talent for your sports bar business.

Following these chapters will ensure that you have the right executive staff members in place to help your sports bar succeed.

9. Marketing & Launch Efforts

Marketing and launching your sports bar takes strategic planning and execution. Here are the steps you need to take in order to effectively market and launch your sports bar business:

• Create a Marketing Plan: Develop a clear, concise plan that outlines your target demographic, your messaging, your advertising and PR strategy, your budget, and your timeline. Keep in mind what sets your sports bar apart from others, and make sure to emphasize that in your plan.
• Location: Choose a location that is visible and accessible for your target demographic(s). It should be easily accessible by car, public transit, or foot traffic. Make sure to choose a location that has ample parking space.
• Website and Social Media Presence: Create a professional website that showcases your services and menu offerings. Your website should be mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Make sure to create accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other social media platforms.
• Events and Promotions : Host regular events and promotions to attract customers. Examples include sports trivia nights, happy hour specials, and game-day viewing parties. Make sure to promote these events on your website and social media channels.
• Menu Design and Pricing: Create a menu that reflects the theme of your sports bar and is appealing to your target audience. Make sure to price your items competitively compared to other sports bars in your area.
• Collaborations: Partner with other local businesses and brands to offer cross-promotions and deals. This can help to attract new customers and build your brand.
• Email Marketing: Collect email addresses from your customers and send regular newsletters to keep them informed about events, promotions, and new menu items.
• Online Advertising: Use online advertising platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads to reach your target audience online.
• Soft Launch: Host a soft launch for family and friends before opening to the public. This can help you get honest feedback and work out any issues before opening day.
• Grand Opening: Plan a grand opening event to generate buzz and attract new customers. Consider offering discounts or freebies to encourage people to visit.
• Focus on building relationships: Word of mouth marketing is one of the most powerful forms of marketing. Focus on building relationships with your customers and local businesses to help spread the word about your sports bar.
• Get creative with promotions: Don't be afraid to get creative with your promotions and events. Consider hosting theme parties, sports tournaments, or live music.
• Monitor the competition: Keep a close eye on your competition, and make adjustments to your marketing and promotions as needed. It's important to stand out in a crowded market, and your competition can give you inspiration for new ideas.

10. Monitor & Adjust Operations

Once you have successfully opened your sports bar business, it is important to regularly monitor and adjust operations to ensure its success. This includes tracking financial performance, customer satisfaction, and employee productivity. By regularly analyzing data and making necessary changes, you can improve the efficiency and profitability of your business.

• Track Financial Performance: Monitor cash flows, revenues, and expenses regularly. This will help you identify any financial issues that need to be addressed to ensure the long-term success of your business. If necessary, adjust your budget and cash flow projections.
• Analyze Customer Feedback: Encourage customers to provide feedback through online reviews, surveys, or social media. Use this feedback to identify areas where improvements need to be made in customer service, menu offerings, or ambiance. Make sure to relay constructive feedback to your employees to enhance their performance.
• Employee Performance: Ensure that your employees are well-trained and motivated. Monitor their performance and provide constructive feedback to improve their skills. By investing in your workforce, you can improve the quality of service that your customers experience.

Tips & Tricks: Regularly monitor social media:

• Keep an eye on your social media handles for negative comments or reviews that may require attention.
• Use social media analytics to gauge customer engagement and enhance your online presence.
• Monitor customer feedback on your competitors' social media pages to identify areas where you can improve.

By making these adjustments, you can stay ahead of competitors, satisfy customers, and grow your business over the long-term. Remember, the success of a sports bar business relies heavily on providing exceptional customer service and a fun atmosphere.

• Research your market
• Develop a business plan & financial model
• Source funding
• Find a suitable location
• Design business premises
• Purchase equipment & inventory
• Obtain necessary permits & licenses
• Executive staff recruitment
• Marketing & launch efforts
• Monitor & adjust operations

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How to Start a Sports Bar Business

Sports bars offer patrons options for watching their favorite sporting events, while enjoying cold drinks and hot food in a lively atmosphere.

Learn how to start your own Sports Bar Business and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a sports bar business by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Sports Bar Business
• Form your Sports Bar Business into a Legal Entity
• Register your Sports Bar Business for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Sports Bar Business
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Sports Bar Business
• Get Sports Bar Business Insurance
• Define your Sports Bar Business Brand
• Create your Sports Bar Business Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your sports bar business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Sports Bar Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your sports bar business?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a sports bar business.

The start up costs for a sports bar can range anywhere from $100,000 to $1 million, depending on the size and scope of the operation. An average sports bar start up can usually be estimated around $400,000. Rental of an existing building, or construction and ownership of a new building, will affect some of your costs. Your liquor license will also add an initial fee to the total, somewhere between $15,000 and $400,000, depending on the location and local or regional laws. The build-out of your bar and kitchen, the tables and seating, electronics, and games, such as arcade style, pool, darts, etc. will also need to be purchased with the seed money.

What are the ongoing expenses for a sports bar business?

A majority of your expenses will pertain to the restocking of food and drinks. Liquor, beer, and wine restocks, along with whatever bar food you may offer, will need to be ordered weekly, if not more often. You should be able to estimate your needs, based on customer patronage, within a 6 month period of operations.

Who is the target market?

Your customer base are sports fans who enjoy having some drinks while watching their teams compete. Most customers will also gravitate to a local bar for location and familiarity.

How does a sports bar business make money?

Sports bars make money off of the food and drinks sold to customers.

Customers should be charged according to market prices of restaurants and bars in your region. Research the average mean pricing of your potential competition and find a fair, yet profitable price point for your food and drink.

How much profit can a sports bar business make?

Depending on the location and size of your establishment, an average bar will make $20,000-$30,000 per week. That adds up to more than $1 million per year. Much of this money will go back into the maintenance of the bar and paying your bar and wait staff, but sports bars can prove to be quite lucrative businesses, if managed correctly.

How can you make your business more profitable?

Offer clubs and organizations options for hosting their meetings at your establishment. Create special nights for sports competitions and trivia nights. Offer weekly specials to get more customers through your doors. Offer catering services, once you’re established, and continue to reach out to the local community. Becoming a staple of a community will go a long way in creating good will and keeping customers positive about your business, ensuring more customers for more sports bar visits.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your sports bar business is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

Federal Business Licensing Requirements

There are federal regulations regarding what can and cannot be added to, sold as, and processed with food. Attached is a resource from the Food and Drug Administration detailing the process of starting a food business: How to Start a Food Business

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a sports bar business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A sports bar business is generally run out of a standalone building. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a sports bar business.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a location :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your sports bar business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Food Regulations

When selling food, you will need licensing from a local health department; all establishments serving food are required to pass a health inspection. Tips for faring well on a health inspections

Liquor Licensing

Businesses involved in the sale of alcoholic beverages are required to obtain a liquor license from the appropriate state or local agency. A comprehensive list of laws by state (including necessary licenses, zoning laws, etc), curated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, is included here .

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Sports Bar Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Sports Bar Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a sports bar business

Often, word of mouth will be your best advertising service. Keep a pulse on customer responses to your bar. Additionally, websites, social media, and print advertising are all acceptable, and frequently low cost, options for spreading the word about your business. Finally, signage for your sports bar will bring in new customers who find you on a whim or via exploration.

How to keep customers coming back

As mentioned above, customers are the lifeblood of your business and are critical to having a successful sports bar. Return customers happen when they feel comfortable and appreciated. It is critical to be consistent in quality and service to your customers. Make sure they leave each time with a positive outlook on your establishment. Offer incentives for return customers in the form of free drinks or food, discount certificates and recognition of their continued patronage.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Successful sports bar owners must be quite knowledgeable about the restaurant and bar business. A background in either of these fields of work is highly recommended. Managerial experience and a detailed eye, regarding finances, are also positive attributes.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a sports bar business?

Customers are the goal of any successful business, especially a restaurant. Day to day activities at a sports bar, then, focus on this aspect. Restocking the bar and kitchen are regular activities, along with maintenance of the bar, in general. Contacting distributors and ordering supplies ahead of time ensures you don’t run out of customer favorites. Cleaning and updating the establishment’s amenities, such as televisions and sound system(s), are also necessary to maintain customer patronage.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful sports bar business?

As mentioned above, extensive knowledge of the restaurant and bar business is essential for striking out on your own. You will also need to create and maintain relationships with your distributors, as they will almost work as an outside partner in your business. Understanding and following trends in these industries is also critical, as is knowing the sports world. Your knowledge of your bar’s specialties, sports, food, and drinks, will help draw customers who share those same passions.

Finally, make yourself available to your patrons. Having more personal relationships with the people who frequent your establishment is an important aspect of your job. These customers will become more like friends and family over the years of maintaining a successful business.

What is the growth potential for a sports bar business?

With the popularity and exposure of sports constantly expanding, bars which cater to sports fans can be quite popular, as well. This also means there can and will be added competition. Your sports bar can be very successful if you have a good location, offer top quality entertainment, food, and drinks. Research your area to see which sports are most popular, if you would have enough regular customers, and what food and drinks fare best with your potential customers. The initial leg work will best prepare you for establishing a successful sports bar. Your growth potential will hinge on these numbers.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a sports bar business?

Customers are your number one concern. Initially, you will be looking to attract, with retention being the long term goal. Stay aware of what customers want and don’t be afraid to ask your regulars what they like or might change. Make the bar and sports industries your business and become a student of both.

• Offer weekly specials and incentives to get people through the door.
• Create club or organization nights in which groups will meet up at your bar.
• Advertise with upcoming sporting events on a bar calendar.
• Host trivia or sports competition nights, such as pool or dart tournaments.

How and when to build a team

A sports bar will need a capable bar and wait staff from the beginning, although the size of your team can be minimal to start, depending on the size of your establishment. As your business grows, you’ll be able to continue adding capable members to your team.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill Franchise

Real World Examples

• Buffalo Wild Wings
• The Score Restaurant & Bar

Further Reading

• Sports Bar Business Plan Template
• What Does it Take to Open a Sports Bar?

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

Sports Bar and Grill Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Sports Industry » Sports Bar

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.

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

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Sports Bar Business Plan Example

Published Nov.11, 2016

Updated Apr.24, 2024

By: Brandi Marcene

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 5

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Table of Content

Sports bar business plan for starting your own business

Watching sports become more enjoyable when you have someone sitting near you to discuss your favorite shot or to taunt the laziness of some footballer.

If you want to start a business and also want to give people a comfortable setting to enjoy sports, you must think about opening a sports bar. A sports bar is a place where televised sports are played on large screens. Nearly all sports bars also offer grilled foods and drinks to provide customers with complete entertainment.

Well, the first step to enter this venture will be creating sports bar and grill business plan. If you don’t know what you should include in your opening a sports bar business plan you can take help from here. In this sample, we are providing the business plan written for a sports and grill bar namely Denzel Sports Bar.

Sports bar business plan summary

2.1 the business.

Denzel Sports Bar will be a registered and licensed sports bar located in Las Vegas. The bar will offer luxurious seating with large screens for people to watch sports. Besides, the sports bar will also be offering high-quality cuisines, grilled chicken and fish foods, and drinks to the customers.

2.2 Management of Sports Bar

Management is a very crucial factor if you are opening a sports bar. You will need to procure the inventory, install screens, and ensure the preparation of quality foods. To manage your business effectively you must plan everything about your business before actually starting it.

Denzel decided to hire a co-manager to supervise the business operations with him. Besides, he will also hire cooks, cleaners, waiters, sales executives, and other general employees to manage the smooth running of his business.

In this sample sports bar business plan, we will be providing Denzel’s sports bar business plan template free of cost. So, you can learn in-depth about how to start and run this business.

2.3 Customers of Sports Bar

In your start up sports bar business plan you should identify the groups of your customers. This will help you in adopting the services and organizing the events that can draw your customers’ attention.

The major customers of Denzel Sports Bar will comprise college students, sportspersons, and senior citizens.

2.4 Business Target

Our target is to become the most renowned sports bar in Las Vegas within three years of our launch. Our financial targets to be achieved over the next three years are demonstrated here.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Denzel Ben will be the owner of Denzel Sports Bar. Denzel has worked in many restaurants business and clubs on managerial posts. He is famous among his colleagues for his teamwork and management skills.

Besides, he is a passionate football fan. He has attended a few matches in-person and also has chitchat with some international-level players.

3.2 Why the Sports Bar Business is being started

After working as a salaried person in several positions, Denzel realized that he can’t get paid according to his creativity and talent. Eventually, he decided to centralize his efforts and start his own business. Since he had experience with clubs and a passion for sports, so he found a sports bar the ideal choice for a startup.

3.3 How the Sports Bar Business will be started

Step1: Creating A Business Plan

In this business plan proposal sample sports bar, we are providing the business plan for Denzel Sports Bar. Denzel decided to design a large sports bar. So, if you are looking for a small sports bar business plan, you would have fewer expenses and staff relative to what is listed here.

Moreover, if you want to buy a franchise then you would need sports bar franchise entity business plan. In this case, you should study some additional sports bar business plan examples. It is because your startup expenses will rise more for buying a franchise.

Step2: Acquiring Required Licenses & Permits

Step3: Establish Your Brand

Denzel will lease a large property in Las Vegas to convert it into a sports bar. Inventory including LED screens, furniture, crockery will be purchased. The required staff will be hired. And the business targets will be defined to mark the market presence.

Step4: Marketing & Advertisement

The next step would be to promote the services of Denzel Sports Bar to get more and more customers. The marketing and sales strategy plan developed for Denzel’s startup will be listed in detail in this sample plan.

Step5: Establishing a Strong Web Presence

Denzel will hire a web developer to ensure a strong online presence.

Services of Sports Bar

Before you create an opening a sports bar business plan, you should decide your services. So that you can plan for the inventory and staff accordingly. To make customers stay at the bar, a sports bar should provide many services other than just showing sports. Therefore, even if you are looking forward to purchase existing business sports bar business plan, you should keep thinking about introducing new trends to stay competitive.

• Showing Live Sports: This will be our primary service. We will show televised sports on large screens so that people who love watching sports in groups can gather at our bar.
• Grilled Barbeque
• Grilled Meat, Chicken and Fish
• Grilled Sandwiches
• Brunswick stew
• Juices: Apple, Pomegranate, Orange, Beet, Mango, and Grape Juice
• Teas & Coffees: Green Tea, Black Tea, Latte, Cappuccino, Espresso, Americano
• Salads: We will also offer fruit, vegetable, and chicken salads.
• Table Tennis

Marketing Analysis of a Sports Bar

In your retail sports bar business plan you should do an accurate marketing analysis. Marketing analysis is the study of your target market from various aspects to understand market ups and downs, the latest trends, your competitive position, and the unoccupied opportunities. Moreover, it allows you to identify that knock out criteria for a sports bar business plan by following which you can run your business smoothly.

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If you are not an expert at doing marketing analysis you can have a general idea of the sports bar industry by reading this sports bar business plan problem example. In this business plan template for sports bar, we have listed the whole marketing analysis of Denzel Sports Bar.

5.1 Market Trends

Sports bars and nightclubs have always remained in-demand in the U.S. Though many sports bars are already running in the U.S. there is still a space for more – provided that the new startups come up with exclusive competitive edges.

These days, sports bars are witnessing a newer trend. The owners of sports bars have started to provide more entertainment options to their customers along with watching sports.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Denzel divided his expected customers into three groups. He did so to study the requirements of different groups of people in a systematic manner. The market segmentation also enabled him in devising pricing and discounting strategies.

Business plan for investors

The groups of potential customers as recognized by Denzel Sports Bar are listed here:

5.2.1 College Students

Our first target group will be the young boys and girls who study in colleges and universities situated near us. The students of such age groups are often involved in sports activities. They enjoy playing as well as watching sports with their friends. We expect them to come to our bar frequently as we offer delicious eatables and luxurious seating along with thrilling televised sports.

5.2.2 Local Sportspersons

Our second target group comprises of local level athletes. There are two sports grounds in Las Vegas that are located at a walking distance of 10 to 15 minutes from us. Therefore, we believe that athletes who play in our vicinity will also become our potential customers. As we will provide them what they require to refresh their minds and bodies after a hectic match.

5.2.3 Senior Citizens

Our third target group will comprise of senior citizens in our locality. Elderly people usually prefer to watch sports at a sports bar. Because it allows them to also socialize with other members of the community. At our sports bar, we will have a comfortable seating arrangement and a pleasant environment for them to watch sports. And also to eat, drink and play light games with their fellows.

5.3 Business Target

• To earn a profit margin of $18.5k per month by the end of the third year
• To achieve an average rating above 4.85 by the end of the first year
• To achieve a CSAT score above 90 by the end of the first year
• To maintain a customer repeat rate above 60% throughout our service years

5.4 Product Pricing

Our prices will be a little higher than our competitors. It is because we are providing elegant indoor seating unlike many of our competitors. And secondly, because we are providing an adequate space to play indoor games too.

However, we still hope to attract more customers to our bar as we have developed an excellent sales strategy plan.

Marketing Strategy of Sports Bar Business

Sales strategy is also an important part of an opening a sports bar business plan. In this part, you define your approach to stay competitive. Moreover, you also formulate an effective advertisement strategy in this section of your finale sports bar grill business plan.

Here we are providing the sales strategy of Denzel Sports Bar for anyone who wants to benefit.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• It is only us in the whole of Las Vegas who are offering indoor games. This will help us accommodate the customers who might not be interested in watching the sports televised at the time.
• Secondly, our menu is really vast. So, each of our customers will be able to relish their favorite food while watching sports or playing games.
• We have two major sports grounds located near us. So the athletes playing there are also expected to visit us to relax and refresh.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• We’ll host live matches of national level players at least two times a year.
• We’ll ensure a strong online presence. Through our website, we’ll be briefing our customers about the incoming events.
• We’ll advertise our startup through Google Local Services ads and local newspapers.
• We’ll offer a 50% discount on all of our foods and drinks for the first three months of the launch.
• We’ll issue 20% discount cards to our valued customers.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Personnel plan

The work efficiency and behavior of the employees directly impact the success of a business. Therefore you must hire your staff after conducting detailed tests and interviews. A good practice is to first list the needed staff along with their job responsibilities in your sports bar business plan template. So that you would know the criteria to judge the abilities of job seekers.

7.1 Company Staff

Denzel will manage the business himself. The staff he will hire is listed below:

• 1 Co-Manager to help manage the sports bar
• 1 Accountant to maintain financial records
• 4 Chefs to prepare food items and drinks
• 2 Waiters to serve the customers
• 1 General Assistant to do routine tasks
• 2 Cleaners to maintain the facility and kitchen
• 2 Sales Executives to execute sports bar’s sales strategy plan
• 1 Driver to provide transport facility
• 1 Web Developer to manage the company’s social sites
• 1 Security Guard

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial Plan

The last thing to include in your business plan for sports bar and grill is a financial plan. A financial plan analyzes all the expenses, investments group for start-up , sales, profits, and losses to determine

• The current financial status of your business
• The path to follow to achieve your financial objectives

Denzel understood the importance of an accurate financial plan. Therefore he hired a professional financial analyst to make a financial plan. The detailed brake-even analysis, gross margin calculations, profit & loss projections, and business ratios calculations done for Denzel Sports Bar are given here.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 Brake-even Analysis

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 Profit Monthly

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 Business Ratios

Download Sports Bar Business Plan Sample in pdf

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OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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Everything You Need to Understand Your Sports Bar Financial Plan

Take control of your future sports bar's financial plans with this guide.

Jim McCormick Author

Jim McCormick

Jim McCormick is the SEO Manager at Toast. He is a Massachusetts native and received his B.S. in marketing from Boston College. He used to do SEO. He still does, but he used to, too.

Restaurant Business Plan Template

No matter where you’re at in your restaurant ownership journey, a business plan will be your north star. Organize your vision and ensure that nothing is overlooked with this free template.

Building a sports bar business plan is an exciting time as you imagine all the creative ways that you’ll bring your vision to customers. The right financial planning is integral to the success of your sports bar.

This guide is a deep dive into all the necessary financial planning required to get an accurate picture of your sports bar’s profit and loss potential. And, it provides useful writing tips for making your sports bar’s financial plans a compelling read.

What is the Financial Plan?

Last but not least is epitomized in sports bar financial plans. As the final section of a business plan, a sports bar cost analysis details the specific investments, risks, and rewards that come with owning a business.

Investors want a breakdown of your business’s spending in the first year and a comparison of the costs to the sports bar’s revenue. This includes both fixed costs, like equipment, supplies, and loan payments, to variable costs such as payroll and marketing.

The financial section of your business plan will include different reports that give investors a detailed look at your business’s projected performance. That way, the risks and rewards of investment are clear. You’ll need a break-even analysis, investment plan, profit & loss statement, and cash flow statement.

How will the Sports Bar Secure Funding?

Startup funds, whether in the form of savings, personal loans, or investments, are required to start a sports bar. Before getting into the specifics of your financial plans, consider the different avenues to securing funding.

First, it's important to know how much funding you need. Research the average costs of starting the kind of sports bar you envision. Don’t forget to consider contingencies–it's smart to secure enough funding to support the sports bar for the long haul. Then, you can think about how you can access those funds, such as:

Personal Loans

Loans from private investors

Friends or family funds

Merchant cash advances

Small business administration (SBA) loans

Commercial real estate loans

Equipment Financing

Purchase order financing

Investors will also want to know the terms of their investment. Detail how you plan to repay loans and what return-on-investment early partners in the business can expect.

How will the Sports Bar Break Even?

Breaking-even describes the month when your sports bar’s monthly expenses are less than its income. It can take anywhere from 6 months to several years for sports bars to break even, depending on the business model.

Break-Even Analysis

A break-even analysis is pretty simple–compare your projected revenue against your monthly expenses. You’ll have to engage in some informed estimation to determine sales projections. But, you should be able to get an accurate view of fixed expenses and a range of variable expenses before you open your doors. That way, you can tell your investors how long you can operate before becoming profitable, e.g. how long they can expect before seeing returns on investment. 

How can you make Financial Projections?

There are a few different reports that investors will expect to be in every sports bar business plan. 

Investment Plan

In this section, explain how the initial investment you hope to receive will be spent in the first year. Include detailed expense plans for equipment, furniture and decor, payroll, legal fees, marketing, and contingency funds.

Projected Profit and Loss (P&L) Statement

Even without sales data, you can create a projected profit and loss statement for your sports bar’s business plan following. Also called income statements or cash flow statements, a profit and loss statement will be useful throughout the life of your business. It helps you to measure the financial health of the business and calculate your sports bar’s revenue.

Rather than starting with a timeframe, start to project your sports bar’s expenses and income by balancing the cost of goods sold against labor, operating costs, and occupancy costs like rent and insurance.

Accurately calculating food costs for your menu items is crucial–that way, as you project sales over time, you are getting an accurate idea of the costs and profits from those sales. Prime costs refer to the cost of food, labor, and supplies that go into each dish.

Operating costs are the expenses involved in day-to-day operations that are usually easy to control once the sports bar gets up and running. But, budgeting for supplies, repairs, and marketing can be tricky. Market research will help you to estimate operating costs accurately.

Occupancy costs, such as rent or mortgage, loan repayments, and insurance are fixed overhead costs. As you create a projected profit and loss statement, these costs will inform the sales and profits that are needed to keep the business running.

Finally, after researching and projecting expenses, you’re ready to think about a timeline for your profit and loss statement. Think about the location and market as you calculate sales projections over time. For instance, if your town has a lot of tourism in the summer, you can expect higher sales for those months. But, maybe the same town shuts down for the winter–how will your peaks in sales balance the expenses of the slower seasons?

Repeat the process for each month of operations, projecting sales based on key performance indicators like the season, marketing, and the habits of local customers. Eventually, you’ll project a month where your sales outpace your spending–the result is a timeline to breaking even.

Writing your Sports Bar’s Financial Plans

Writing about finances can be a challenge–here’s how you can make the details of your sports bar’s finances an interesting read.

Always keep the audience in mind. Use some of the financial vocabulary introduced in this article and write for your potential investors.

Find your voice. This is YOUR business plan, after all, so remember to balance your unique style of writing (or speaking) with what your audience needs to hear.

Keep it simple and clear. It's tempting to throw in lots of clever flourishes when writing, but clarity should be the number 1 priority when discussing the financial details of the business.

Related Restaurant Resources

• Sports Bar Business Plan

Sports Bar Business Plan Executive Summary

• Sports Bar Operations Plan
• Sports Bar Industry Market Analysis
• Sports Bar Management Team

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Money blog: 27 areas where Aldi wants to open new stores as a 'priority'

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Is your area crying out for a new supermarket to broaden your options and push prices down with a bit of competition?

Last month, the UK’s fourth largest supermarket - Aldi - asked shoppers to get in touch with their views on where it should open new stores.

The discount chain says it received thousands of replies, which it has used to hone its search for new store sites.

At the moment, Aldi has more than 1,020 stores. It says it wants more than 1,500 stores across the UK in the long run.

The 27 areas of priority to Aldi are:

• Woodford, London
• Surbiton, London
• South Croydon, London
• Notting Hill, London
• Walthamstow, London
• Beckenham, London
• Bromley, London
• Barnet, London
• Redhill, Surrey
• Aldershot, Hampshire
• Haywards Heath, West Sussex
• Burgess Hill, West Sussex
• Chatham, Kent
• Cheadle, Greater Manchester
• Chorlton, Manchester
• Formby, Liverpool
• Newark, Nottinghamshire
• Chesterfield, Derbyshire
• Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
• Rayleigh, Essex
• Brentwood, Essex
• Dorchester, Dorset
• Clarkston, Scotland
• Cathcart, Scotland
• Penzance, Cornwall
• Warwick, Warwickshire
• Bath, Somerset

Jonathan Neale, managing director of national real estate at Aldi UK, said: "We want to make high quality food accessible to all, but we can’t do that while there are still some towns and areas that either don’t have an Aldi or have capacity for additional stores.

"We recognise there is huge demand in certain regions for more stores, which is why we decided to get the public’s input on our latest list of priority locations."

Which?, the consumer website and magazine, has ranked Aldi as the cheapest supermarket in the UK consistently this year.

Using a typical list of popular items, Which? ranked Aldi as the cheapest place to shop from January to May - with rivals Lidl coming in second.

However, for a longer list of items and a bigger shop, Asda and Morrisons have typically been the top two for Which? this year.

Customers of both Tesco and OVO Energy are entitled to 2,500 free Clubcard points, the supermarket has announced.

The points can be redeemed as a £25 voucher or at double their value with Clubcard reward partners.

Customers can unlock the points by linking their accounts with both companies.

"The cost of living remains a key challenge for households and our partnership with Tesco is one of the many ways in which we are giving back to our customers with rewards that they can spend how they choose," said Mat Moakes, chief commercial officer at OVO.

New customers can link their Tesco Clubcard account when they sign up as an OVO customer, while existing OVO customers can log into their account, go to their profile, click "our partners", and select the Tesco Clubcard logo.

Want to see a show in London this summer without breaking the bank? 

You're in luck - as new data has revealed the most affordable musicals to see in the capital right now. 

The data, collated by theatre ticket site SeatPlan , shows the most affordable musical to see in London right now is Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York), with the average cheapest ticket price at £17.90. 

The rom-com musical follows a British boy (Dougal), who lands in New York for his dad's second wedding. 

At the airport, he meets the bride's sister, and a quirky, offbeat love story ensues.

Also in the top 10 are Marie Curie The Musical (£20), Guys And Dolls (£23.90) and Sister Act (£26.40). 

Shows are ranked by the average price of the cheapest ticket, with the top ranked show having the lowest price.

On the flip side, the data also revealed the most expensive tickets, by analysing internal pricing data for musicals from SeatPlan.com. 

Musicals including Cabaret (£85.10), Mean Girls (£64.60) and Starlight Express (£43.70) make up this list...

If you've been reassured by positive recent news on inflation and a widely-anticipated cut in interest rates later this year, unfortunately the Bank of England has a worrying update for mortgage payers.

About three million UK households are still set to witness hikes in their mortgage repayments over the next two years, the Bank has said.

Its Financial Policy Committee (FPC) added there are likely to be "very large increases" of more than 50% for the mortgages of around 400,000 households.

But the central bank stressed that UK lenders are still in a strong position to support households and businesses, even if the economic backdrop worsens.

The concerning update is in the Bank's latest Financial Stability Report.

It also showed that most households have already had an increase in their mortgage rates since borrowing costs began rising substantially in 2022.

Why is the outlook so bad if interest rates are expected to fall?

Interest rates are at a 16-year-high of 5.25%, with the central bank voting to maintain the figure for a seventh consecutive meeting earlier this month.

But many economists have predicted the base rate could be reduced at the Bank's next vote in August.

However, at the moment, around 35% of households with mortgages, or more than three million, are paying below 3% for a range of reasons - like existing deals which pre-dated the recent crisis - and are expected to see an increase between now and the end of 2026.

A typical household rolling off a fixed-rate mortgage before the end of 2026 is due to face a jump of around £180 a month, the report said.

It highlighted that an "increasing proportion" of households have been choosing to borrow over a longer period of time, reducing monthly repayments but leaving them with more debt to service over time.

Higher mortgage rates have resulted in many households and renters reducing their savings, the Bank also found.

PrettyLittleThing is facing more criticism after announcing it would issue refunds on delivery subscriptions for accounts it has banned for returning too many items.

The online fashion giant says it will refund outstanding gift cards and store credit, as well as £9.99 to closed accounts which had already purchased its royalty service entitling them to unlimited next day delivery for a year.

The company said: "We have noticed an extremely high returns rate from a small pool of customers who have demonstrated behaviours that were inconsistent with what we experience with the rest of our customer base.

"The actions taken are not designed to limit our customers who do need to return or deter them from returning, it was taken to address a small proportion of customers who have a high returns rate."

PrettyLittleThing added it does not plan to close any further accounts.

Some customers were not happy with the response, with one posting on X: "This is bullshit my last return was December 2023... and of course you turned off the comments."

Another wrote: "PrettyLittleThing expects us to order our clothes twice because their sizing is off and is closing people's accounts because of frequent returns. What a way to ruin your own business."

By  James Sillars , business reporter

Amazon was grabbing attention overnight.

It's become the fifth US company to reach a $2trn market value milestone.

Can you name the others? Answers below!

Analysts are crediting strong demand for technology-related stocks amid the rush for AI.

They also point to the growing hope among investors for a late summer/early autumn interest rate cut by the US central bank.

Amazon's shares ended the session on Wall St almost 4% up at $193 apiece.

The FTSE 100 has had a fairly muted start after falling almost 0.3% yesterday.

The index was one point up at 8,226 in early dealing.

In the wider market, Halfords stock was trading 6% lower.

The cycle sales and motor-focused retailer had earlier reported a fall in annual profits of almost a fifth and said that trading remained "soft".

The message to the market from Currys, the electricals chain, was more upbeat.

It revealed a 10% lift to its bottom line in the year to 27 April and said it was more confident about demand ahead.

Currys shares were 1% down, however, potentially reflecting concerns that its profit performance was not driven by higher sales.

Before I go... the answers to the $2trn+ club question above, as promised - the other members of this elite grouping are: Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia and Alphabet.

More than half of councils are not confident their area is prepared to roll out the next phase of free childcare, a report has found.

From September, 15 hours of free childcare a week will be available to working parents of all children aged over nine months old - expanding the policy from working parents of two-year-olds.

But 59% of local authorities say they are unsure if they will have enough places, citing significant challenges in recruiting and retaining staff, according to research by Coram Family and Childcare.

"For this policy to be a success, it is essential that all families can take up their entitlements, and the next few months will be a crucial time in making sure they can," said Ellen Broome, managing director of Coram.

The childcare changes coming in September are the penultimate phase of a policy introduced by the chancellor at the budget last year.

In September 2025, all working parents of children aged over nine months olds will be eligible for 30 hours free childcare per week.

Coram found only 11% of councils were confident there will be enough places to meet demand - a figure almost unchanged since January.

At present, 52% of councils say all or almost all eligible parents seeking 15 hours of free childcare have been able to.

But Ms Broome added: "We are concerned there may be further issues not only this September, but further down the line for families in getting the childcare they need." 

Beyond workforce challenges, 36% of councils identified local buildings and space as barriers to delivering the service.

Martin Lewis has hit out at the Conservatives for using him in an attack ad.

The Tories posted a clip of the Money Saving Expert founder on X describing how a senior Labour member had told him they wanted to introduce a policy that was not in its manifesto.

Mr Lewis said the discussion he had been referring to was not about tax rises, but the Conservatives featured the video alongside the words: "They're not telling you the full truth. Labour have said they wouldn't put up your taxes. But it's now becoming clear that they have every intention to put them up."

Criticising the ad, Mr Lewis wrote: "NOWHERE in this comment do I talk about taxes.

"And the policy that I discussed (I will keep private as it was private) was NOT about taxes, or tax rises, it was about something that would be a positive change."

The Tories' original post was later tagged with a community note – a feature on X allowing readers to add context to a claim.

"Martin Lewis has confirmed that the policy he refers to in the video was not about taxes, and so is unrelated to the text it is presented alongside," the note read.

Labour, like the Tories, have promised not to increase income tax, national insurance or VAT during the next parliament.

Every Thursday  Savings Champion founder Anna Bowes  gives an insight into the savings market and how to make the most of your money... 

With more than £253bn sitting in accounts earning nothing, savers are missing out on billions of pounds in interest. Although we are expecting to see a base rate cut in the next few weeks or months, as this keeps getting pushed back it's good to see that some of the best easy access accounts that you can open are still paying more than 5% AER (the Annual Equivalent Rate).

Some existing savers may have seen the rate on their accounts dropping however, as some providers have already started to cut rates in anticipation of a lower base rate this year. So, if you are one of these savers, it could pay to switch if you feel you are getting a rough deal.

That said, as easy access accounts are variable rate accounts, the rate of any could be cut at any time – so keep a close eye on what's happening.

Another thing to watch out for is bonus rates, which some of the top paying accounts include in the rate they are advertising. The most common type of bonus is one that will apply for the first 12 months of the account being opened, so you need to make sure you move your money at that stage, if the rate without the bonus is uncompetitive.

But sometimes the bonus applies until a specific date, which could be less than 12 months. For example, Chase Bank's Chase Saver is paying a headline rate of 5.10% but this includes a bonus of 1% which will be removed on 16 January 2025. Therefore, the rate that you will earn over 12 months (the AER) is lower than the headline rate. As of 16 June 2024, the AER on this account was nearer 4.68% - although as long as you make a note to review and move your cash when the bonus is removed, you can still earn 5.10% in the meantime.

Of course, as mentioned above, as with all variable rate accounts the interest rate you are earning can be cut at any time anyway, so you need to keep your eyes peeled.

It's important to read all the terms and conditions when opening a savings account so that you earn the interest you are expecting.

The chief executive of Lloyds Banking Group – the UK's biggest lender – has offered a bleak outlook for anyone hoping for a return of low interest rates.

Charlie Nunn told Sky News interest rate cuts from the Bank of England expected later this year would be "beneficial" – but warned homeowners not to expect a return to the ultra-low interest rates seen for most of the last 16 years.

He added: "Of course, the short-term impact of interest rates is going to impact, first of all, the government on the cost of government debt. That will be important. And secondly, it'll make the cost of borrowing for businesses short term more attractive… that'll be important.

"In terms of the impact on the broader consumer in the UK, it'll take longer to feed through. Around mortgages specifically, we've just come off a decade where mortgages have been in the 1.5-2.5% range.

"The expectations the market have is that interest rates probably won't get below 3.5%. 

"And that means mortgages, or the new normal for mortgages, will be in that 3.5-4.5% range, not 1.5-2.5%.

"So there is going to be a higher cost of borrowing in the economy, probably based on what we can see happening at the moment."

Read Ian King's full interview with Charlie Nunn...

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