The Bar Business Podcast: Bar & Pub Owner Profits, Marketing & Operations

What if the failure rate statistics you've been hearing about the bar industry are all wrong? Join me, Chris Schneider, on this week's Bar Business Podcast as we dispel some of the most pervasive myths that have been haunting bar owners for years. We start by dissecting the oft-quoted but unsubstantiated claim that 80% of bars fail within five years. Leveraging studies from Ohio State University and data from Starfish, we debunk these misleading figures and encourage bar owners to focus on improving their own performance metrics rather than being swayed by inaccurate industry standards.

We also explore fascinating data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, showing even lower failure rates for businesses opened in 2022, and how establishments that opened just before the COVID-19 pandemic have shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.

Finally, let's talk profitability. Contrary to the belief that bars operate on razor-thin margins of less than 5%, data from Starfish reveals that bars in major cities can see average net profits of 10.4%, with non-major cities reaching as high as 21.4%. We delve into the importance of managing prime costs effectively and provide actionable strategies to boost your P&L numbers. From understanding occupancy costs to adapting to consumer behavior trends, this episode is packed with insights to help you steer your bar toward greater profitability. Tune in for data-driven advice and practical tips tailored to your unique business model.

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Join us in this captivating episode as we host Dave Nitzel of Dave and Dave, Hospitality and Barmetrix. Dave shares his journey from working with giants like UPS and Office Depot to acquiring Barmetrix franchises and co-authoring the books The Bar Shift and Hospitality DNA.

Dave opens up about his challenges and the rewarding moments he experienced while creating "Hospitality DNA." We explore the Helix model that encapsulates the fundamental traits of successful hospitality professionals—Humble Nature, Explorer's Pursuit, Lifetime of Experience, Indomitable Spirit, and Xtraordinary Culture.

We'll also discuss the role of well-defined partnerships, the value of mentorship relationships, and we'll dive into the revolutionary framework of the Inception Archetype. We wrap up with a conversation about what bar inventory actually entails. Complete with practical inventory management tips, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone in the hospitality field.

Contact Dave:
Dave Nitzel on LinkedIn
www.DaveandDave.co
www.barmetrix.com

Buy Dave's Books:
The Bar Shift
Hospitality DNA

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Ever wondered how you could transform your bar or restaurant's finances with minimal effort? This week on the Bar Business Podcast, we sit down with Jordan Silverman of Starfish, an AI-driven analytic and benchmarking platform that's disrupting the industry. Learn how this innovative platform fills a crucial gap in the market, providing bar and restaurant owners with actionable insights to manage costs more effectively, understand industry benchmarks, and make data-driven decisions for better profitability.

Get ready to explore the automation of Profit and Loss (P&L) analysis and cost data management like never before. Discover how Starfish's seamless integration with QuickBooks automates tedious tasks, enabling timely, strategic decision-making. Hear real-life success stories, including impressive recoveries of overpayments and significant cost savings, and understand how Starfish can provide substantial returns on your investment. Emphasizing customer satisfaction and leveraging word-of-mouth growth, Jordan reveals how Starfish aims to revolutionize the industry, one bar at a time.

Get in touch with Jordan:
https://www.usestarfish.com
[email protected]
(914) 844-5775

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Ever wondered how the pros turn a good bar into a great one? Unlock the secret sauce as we dissect Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that will revolutionize your bar's performance. In our latest podcast episode, I walk you through identifying and leveraging the four critical types of KPIs—quality, delivery, productivity, and inventory. Each category acts as a compass, guiding you to make informed decisions that enhance every corner of your operation. From front-of-house finesse to back-of-house brilliance, we've got your blueprint to bar business excellence.

Dive headfirst into the power of the Net Promoter Score (NPS) and understand why it's more than just a number—it's the heartbeat of your customer service. With an in-depth look at what distinguishes promoters from passives and detractors, I'll show you how even a single customer's feedback can have a ripple effect on your reputation. Then, get tactical with back-of-house strategies that transform kitchen chaos into culinary consistency. You'll learn how tracking quality comps can be your radar for guest satisfaction, allowing you to set and hit incremental targets that make every dish a signature one.

Finally, get a grip on your goods with strategies that streamline your inventory management, keeping your cash flow fluid and your waste to a minimum. Discover why days in inventory can be your financial health barometer and how optimizing this KPI could mean the difference between treading water and riding the wave of profitability. Plus, I'll share how you can strike the perfect balance between productivity and quality to keep your guests returning for more. So, saddle up to the bar and join us for a masterclass in metrics that matter, and steer your business to soaring success.

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

This episode peels back the curtain on the vital role of cash management in the bar industry, a lesson in finance that might just save your business from the perils of poor oversight. I'll walk you through the undeniable benefits of accepting cash—think zero transaction fees and immediate fund access—and share the tricks of the trade that keep your cash flow smooth and secure.

Dive into the world of cash drops as I recount my journey mastering the art of cash management in bars without the watchful eyes of constant management. You'll learn how streamlining the process not only secures your servers' hard-earned tips but also how nightly cash drawer rituals and savvy petty cash handling can prevent theft and ensure every dollar is accounted for. It's all about practical, actionable strategies that fortify your financial defenses.

Then, brace yourself for a tale of deceit that even the most seasoned bartender could fall victim to—counterfeit currency. We'll explore verification techniques and internal controls that shield your revenue from both external fraudsters and internal mishaps. By the end of our time together, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to turn your bar's cash management from a potential headache into a profit-protecting powerhouse.

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Picture this: You're closing up the bar after another hectic day, already dreading tomorrow's to-do list. What if I told you that with a few clever tweaks to your routine, you could greet the dawn with confidence instead of chaos? Today, we peel back the curtain on the art of advance planning to help prioritize your daily tasks.

Now, let's talk pressing priorities. Ever wondered how to distinguish between the 'must-dos' and the 'can-waits'? I'll break down the task prioritization system that can revolutionize your workflow, ensuring you're always on top of the urgent and important, while adeptly delegating the rest. And here's a golden nugget: the tasks that someone else can handle at least 70% as well as you can be your ticket to reclaiming valuable time. It's all about optimizing your focus for the aspects of your business that truly need your magic touch.

Finally, we can all agree that even the most well-oiled machines need a break sometimes. That's why I stress the vital role of downtime. Your bar thrives when you do, and that means taking a step back is not just recommended—it's essential. I share experiences and insights on how regular breaks from work can actually sharpen decision-making and boost productivity. So, if you've been wearing your overwork badge with misplaced pride, this episode is your wake-up call. Pour yourself a cold one, take a seat, and let's transform how you navigate the bustling nightlife landscape with grace and efficiency.

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Ever wondered why your bar's profits might be pouring down the drain? The answer could lie in the nuanced world of inventory management, which we're cracking open in this week's Bar Business Podcast. I'm Chris Schneider, and I'm here to walk you through the must-know strategies to keep your stock in check and your financials on point. We tackle the importance of running a tight inventory, digging into how it reveals the true cost of goods sold and ensures your prime cost percentage doesn't spiral out of control. It's not just about counting bottles; it's about mastering the balance between what you have and what you need, preventing money from stagnating on your back shelf. 

In the thick of managing a bustling bar, the last thing you want is an inventory misstep to cloud your bottom line. That's why I'll share the best practices for monthly stocktakes, timing them just right for consistency without disrupting your service or sanity. Listen in as we break down the critical components of a foolproof spreadsheet, and don't worry, we'll even tackle the tricky business of those end-of-month variances. I promise it’s simpler than it sounds, and once you get a handle on this, you’re one step closer to running a well-oiled machine.

In this episode, I peel back the curtain on my own run-in with sneaky discrepancies and reveal how I turned the tables on theft at a country club. We'll also explore how essential data like inventory turnover and day sales in inventory can keep your cash flow healthy and your stock levels optimized. Whether you're a seasoned bar owner or just starting out, this episode will equip you with the insights to stay ahead of the game and ensure every ounce of profit is accounted for. 

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Ever wondered why your bar isn't hitting that golden 55% prime cost target? This week on the Bar Business Podcast, I reveal why this number isn't the be-all and end-all for every establishment. You'll learn how factors like location and occupancy costs can shift the goalposts, and why tailoring your approach is crucial for your bar's financial well-being. I'm not here to preach textbook strategies; we're diving into the real-world implications that make or break your bottom line.

Accounting can be a headache, but it's the lifeblood of your bar's success. As your host, Chris Schneider, I break down the nitty-gritty of prime cost management, showing you how to separate your expenses into crystal-clear categories for a laser-focused view of your financial health. From mastering the art of differentiating beverage costs to embracing tools and expertise that streamline your financial tracking, this episode is your ticket to data-driven decision-making that can dramatically improve your business. But wait, there's more! We're peeling back the layers on prime cost management within the hospitality sector, discussing everything from the intricacies of labor cost categorization to the complexities of third-party delivery service fees. 

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Embark on an insightful journey with Greg Buda, as he shares the cocktail of skills that took him from the lab bench to the buzzing bar scene. Greg distills the essence of shifting from consulting to ownership, spilling secrets on the art of delegation and the necessity of a hands-on approach in cultivating a vibrant, educated team. His passion for transforming complex ideas into palatable knowledge serves as a beacon for anyone navigating the hospitality industry.

This episode serves up a blend of strategy and storytelling, as we examine the underestimated power of service training and the magnetic pull of a meticulously curated digital presence. Our conversation ventures beyond the bar counter, exploring the nuances of creating a service experience that transcends cultural boundaries, underlining the profound impact of investing in staff knowledge. Tune in and discover how to leave your patrons thirsty for more than just another round.

Get in Touch with Greg
https://BarBisouBisou.com
Instagram: @buda.photography

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/ 

Unlock hospitality's hidden code with bar industry juggernaut Sean Fenter, who joins your host Chris Schneider for a revelatory discussion on navigating the perilous yet rewarding world of bars and restaurants. Discover the secret sauce distinguishing exceptional service from true hospitality, and why it's critical to your establishment's survival. We also dissect the art of hiring staff who mesh with your brand's identity and how to weave an enchanting guest experience that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Venture into the exclusive realm of top bar operators, where Sean and I examine the finesse of balancing a profitable enterprise with nurturing a passionate team dedicated to the craft. We traverse the landscape of community influence, detailing how forging strong local connections can transform your business into a bustling hotspot. This episode is a treasure map guiding you to cultivate a dedicated customer base and a loyal community around your establishment, ensuring your spot at the peak of the industry mountain.

Check out Sean's Social Media and Websites:
www.SeanFinter.com
www.FinterGroup.com
Bar  & Restaurant Growth Accelerator FB Group: www.facebook.com/groups/barandrestaurantgrowthaccelerator
Sean on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sean-finter/

📌Start Here
Own, run, or manage a bar? Join Bar Business Nation.

An EXCLUSIVE private Facebook group for bar owners and operators who want better ways to run the business.

Ask questions, hear what other owners are dealing with, and get ideas you can actually use.

🔴Join here:
 → https://www.facebook.com/groups/barbusinessnation

📌Additional resources
🔴Grab the books “How to Make Top-Shelf Profits in the Bar Business!” and “Menus that Sell” here:
→ https://barbusinesscoach.com/book/