If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own pub, you’re not alone. Many people dream about turning their love for beer and socialising into a thriving pub business. If you’re drawn to the idea of running a pub under a tenancy agreement, turning this dream into a reality requires more than just enthusiasm. It takes planning, dedication, and a solid understanding of the steps involved.

In this post, we’ll explore how to transform your passion for pubs into a successful business, focusing the essential skills you’ll need to make your mark in the hospitality industry.

Step 1: Know What You Want

The first step is to define the role you want to play. Is a tenancy agreement the right option for you? There are several options, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. At Joule’s Brewery, we offer our pubs under tenancy agreements.

A pub tenancy is a popular choice for many aspiring publicans who want to start their pub journey. As a Joule’s Brewery tenant, you’ll enter into an agreement to run the pub, but you won’t own the building. You’ll have control over the day-to-day operations, all within the framework provided by Joule’s Brewery.

Choosing the right style of agreement depends on your financial situation and your long-term vision for a pub business. Pub tenancies offer the benefit of owning and running your business without the huge financial risk of property ownership.

Step 2: Understanding the Financials

Running a pub under a tenancy agreement is a business, and like any business, it requires an investment of both time and money. When considering a pub tenancy, having a clear understanding of your financial needs is essential.

Initial Investment: With a pub tenancy, you’ll need to account for costs like deposits, inventory, operational expenses, and initial working capital. Beyond rent, you’ll also need to budget for stock, staff wages, utilities, insurance, and other costs.

Profit Margins and Pricing: Profitability is key to sustaining a successful pub. Understanding your cost structure, and the profit margin on each drink or dish is crucial. Pricing strategies can make or break your pub’s success. At Joule’s Brewery, we suggest recommended retail pricing across our beers, and you can work closely with your Brand Operations Manager to price other drinks and food dishes accordingly.

Step 3: The Legalities – What You Need to Know

As with any business, there are several legal requirements when running a pub. You’ll need to ensure that you have the necessary licenses and comply with local regulations.

Licensing: Before opening your doors, you’ll need a Personal Licence. With Joule’s Brewery, the premises licence stays in the name of the brewery, and we will nominate you as the Designated Premises Supervisor (DPS).

Health and Safety: Public safety is critical when running any hospitality business. Ensure that you meet health and safety regulations, including fire safety.

Food Hygiene Standards: It’s important to sign your business up as a food business, even if you aren’t planning on serving food. This is a key requirement for compliance.

Step 4: Selecting the Right Pub for You

If you plan to live on-site, not only will this be your business, but also your home. You’ll need to consider factors like location, amenities, and the general vibe of the neighbourhood.

Type of Pub: Decide what kind of pub experience you want to create. Will it be a traditional community local with a cosy atmosphere? A town-centre pub with a focus on food? Or a wet-led site? Defining your dream pub will help you decide on everything from your menu to the drinks you offer.

Research the Local Market: Conduct research into the area you’re interested in. What are the local preferences in terms of drink offerings and pub food? Are there other pubs in the area, and if so, how can you differentiate your business? Understanding the local market will help you create a unique and appealing offer for your customers.

Step 5: Marketing Your Pub and Building a Loyal Customer Base

Once you’ve secured your dream pub, it’s time to focus on how you’ll attract customers. Effective marketing is essential for long-term success.

Social Media and Online Presence: Establish an active presence on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. This will help you connect with customers, promote events, and share your food and drink offerings. A well-maintained website with an online booking option can also boost your visibility and make it easier for potential customers to find you. At Joule’s Brewery, you can work closely with your Brand Operations Manager or our marketing team to strengthen your marketing.

Engage with the Community: Being part of the local community is crucial for a successful pub. Host events like quiz nights, live music, and special events to encourage repeat business. Sponsorships with local events and teams can also increase visibility and boost your customer base. Your Brand Operations Manager will help you identify key opportunities for the pub.

Customer Service: Word-of-mouth marketing can be your best asset. Providing excellent customer service will ensure your customers return and recommend your pub to others. Always ensure your team is attentive, friendly, and responsive to customer needs.

Connection with the Brewery: It’s key for our tenants to work in partnership with Joule’s Brewery. We believe in our tenants as Brand Ambassadors, promoting our beers and understanding the story and heritage behind our brand.

Step 6: Hiring and Managing a Team

No pub can run without a great team. From front-of-house staff to kitchen personnel, your employees are the backbone of your business.

Hiring: Look for individuals who are passionate about the hospitality industry, have experience, and align with your pub’s culture. A team that shares your vision is vital for your success.

Training: Ensure your staff is well-trained in areas such as food and drink knowledge, customer service, and health and safety regulations. Regular training will help maintain a high level of service.

Step 7: Operational Success – Managing Your Pub Day-to-Day

Once your pub is up and running, your job shifts to overseeing day-to-day operations. From inventory management to ensuring smooth operations, staying on top of everything is crucial. Consider using POS (Point of Sale) systems to help track sales and manage stock.

Taking the Leap

Turning your dream of running a pub into reality is an exciting and challenging endeavour. Taking on a Joule’s Brewery tenancy, success requires hard work, financial planning, and a clear vision. By following these steps, researching the industry, and focusing on customer experience, you’ll be on your way to building a thriving pub business.