What does a Bar Owner do?

A bar owner makes the decisions that affect the day-to-day and long-term operations of his eating and drinking establishment. This may include managing alcohol and food inventory, balancing accounting books and maintaining proper licensure. He is frequently the bar manager as well, especially at a small, local venue commonly referred to as neighborhood bar. He normally has the final say on decisions that pertain to staffing, advertising, promotion and customer relations as well.

Owning a bar is normally quite different from owning a restaurant or retail store. A bar owner is typically required to obtain various licenses before he opens his doors. A number of these licenses normally require regular renewal and are often subject to revocation by local or regional authorities.

These licenses generally dictate what types of liquor may be sold at the bar. Some bars are authorized to only sell wine and beer, and others have permission to sell hard liquor. If food is to be served to bar patrons, that service typically requires a separate license. In all cases, a local agency that ensures health and safety standards are maintained commonly inspects the premises on a regular basis to verify compliance.

In addition to having his licenses and location in order, a bar owner is generally in charge of advertising and promotion. His marketing strategies may include placing ads in local telephone directories and newspapers or advertising on Internet websites. The owner may also collaborate with other local businesses to promote his bar. Participation in local charity events and promoting special deals for holidays and happy hours are normally at the discretion of the bar owner.

Staffing a bar with personable and competent employees is normally important to a bar’s success. The bar owner generally carefully screens his potential hires to make sure they are competent and friendly mixologists with solid work histories and reputations for honesty and dependability. If a manager is on staff, he or she may participate in the screening and hiring process.

A bar owner is traditionally expected to know how to make cocktails, properly pour beer and tap a fresh keg. Knowledge of inventory control and bookkeeping are generally considered assets for the job. Experience in attracting customers and building friendly relationships that establish a loyal clientele are generally required for a bar owner to run a successful tavern.

There are no educational requirements to be a bar owner. Past experience in running a business is typically considered a plus. Personnel management and public relations skills are generally helpful to achieve success in this position.